Steven Parker, who is autistic, joined ACE Popcorn to help make delicious popcorn.
The Marketing Team recently spoke to Steven about his journey and how working for ACE Popcorn has been a positive impact on him.
Hi Steven! To start with, just tell us a bit about yourself?
“My name is Steven and I am 28 years old. When I am at home, I mainly play video games, but I do watch some YouTube and some things on Netflix, Disney and Prime.”
How would you describe ACE Popcorn?
“It’s a pretty good social enterprise. It helps autistic individuals. It’s been difficult to find work but here it’s easy; you’re not judged, it’s a very inclusive and accepting environment here at ACE Popcorn.”
Describe what a day looks like for a Production Assistant at ACE Popcorn?
“At the start of the day, we come into the Social Enterprise Room and wait until Tristan, our Manager, turns up and then he briefs us into making popcorn or cleaning the production room. Before we make the popcorn that Tristan specifies to us, we would do all of the safety checks beforehand.”
What have you enjoyed while working with ACE Popcorn?
“I would say making the popcorn, as it is a skill that I didn’t have and wanted to learn more about.”
Tell us the journey you went on to when applying?
“Before this role, I was getting stressed out because I couldn’t find anything or anyone that would take me on. Someone I know told me about the opportunity to work in an inclusive and accepting environment and I put an application in and then a few weeks later, I got offered the opportunity I’m so happy to here.
I applied for 8 companies and they all turned me down except 1 that I got offered an interview, but just unlucky not to get at as it was very competitive.”
How has your role changed your view on autism?
“I changed my views and realised that everyone is different and some may have more extreme needs and support than others.”
How has staff members supported you in your role?
“I think the staff members are perfect. They’re very helpful and Tristan is very supportive. If I am the only one in the production room and I need support, he would be very willing to lend a hand.”
How has Autism East Midlands supported in helping you find employment?
“I had support from Sam, who is one of the employment team, and they helped me through the application process.”
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If you’d like to learn more about ACE Popcorn, you can:
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Email us at enquiries@aem.org.uk.
