🌻 Emilio Della Valle: Trainer & Assessor 🌻

When I first learned about the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower (HDS) program, I knew it had the potential to make a difference. But I didn’t anticipate just how much it would transform my understanding and how we, as a team, connect with our community. As someone deeply involved in delivering the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower training, I find this journey eye-opening.

The activation at West Footscray station to celebrate 90% of our VIC team completing the training was a standout moment for me. Handing out sunflowers to commuters may seem like a simple gesture, but the reactions we received were profound. Most people were delighted, their faces lighting up with surprise and gratitude. A few were unsure at first—and that’s okay. In these moments of hesitation, the power of the Sunflower program becomes clear: it’s about fostering understanding and opening hearts.

One moment, in particular, will stay with me forever. A group of children with disabilities and their carers stopped by, and their response to the sunflowers was beautiful. The joy and connection we shared in that brief interaction were heartwarming and unforgettable. It reminded me why this program is so important.

The training itself has been transformative for me. It’s deepened my empathy and taught me invaluable lessons about kindness, compassion, and resilience. These aren’t just words; they’re actions that I see our drivers embracing every day. Watching them connect with passengers and make their journeys easier fills me with pride.

Just because you can’t see it doesn’t mean it’s not there. That’s the essence of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program. It’s a reminder that everyone carries something unseen, and it’s up to us to create an environment of support and understanding.

Looking ahead, I’m hopeful. I hope we see more initiatives like this—programs that challenge us to be better, to connect deeper, and to show more compassion in our daily interactions. It’s not just about driving buses; it’s about making a difference, one sunflower at a time.