Eric shoots for the stars

Eric is proof that age is nothing but a number after recently staring in a shoot alongside nine other models for an ABC news story. 

At 65 years of age, Eric still loves having new experiences, especially ones that uplift and inspire him to be the best version of himself. 

The shoot was hosted by Monique Jeremiah of Diversity Models, a NDIS registered modelling agency on the Gold Coast, Queensland. 

“The concept behind the shoot was to show people with disabilities thriving in a modelling setting,” Monique said. 

“The shoot brought together 10 different people with 10 different types of disabilities to be featured on TV and showed them naturally interacting with non-disabilities models, photographers and our creative team in a typical group shoot setting. 

“Eric represented the disability of down syndrome as a mature model.” 

Thanks to the support of his NDIS plan, Eric receives assistance every day to live more independently and achieve his goals – one of which is to participate in community activities such as the photoshoot. 

“I struggle remembering things even little tasks like keeping on top of my personal care,” Eric said. 

“I also don’t have the best hearing anymore so it makes it difficult for myself to communicate with others sometimes.” 

With NDIS-funded supports, delivered by the team at Aspire Hub, Eric can be himself and focus on doing what he loves most. 

“Luckily I have a great support team who helps me with these things,” Eric said. 

“Aspire Hub has helped me a lot from little things such as personal care to assisting myself when entering the community.” 

Reflecting on the photoshoot experience, more than anything Eric enjoyed getting to be himself and having fun.  

“I felt very welcomed and enjoyed being part of it all,” Eric said. 

“Overall I had a great time and had plenty of laughs throughout the day.” 

With the support of the NDIS, Eric also loves to stay active as an important way to maintain his independence.  

“I am proud of accomplishing staying on top of my health and fitness,” Eric said. 

“I like to go for a long walk most mornings either down at the beach or in a nice park. 

“I am proud of this because I know others around the same age who may not be as active as myself.”