Portia Wants a Job: Living with a learning disability

When Portia graduated from high school she had high hopes of getting a job. She lives with a mild intellectual disability and has found there are very few opportunities out there.
She has volunteer and work placement experience, but for Portia it’s a roller coaster as she navigates the ups and downs of searching for that one elusive job.
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[@blssdjyyyy12]

"My problem is not actually having my disability. I know there's stuff that I can't do. It's more about how other people see me and how they treat me." THIS BROKE MY HEART 💔😭

[@beautifulbeautifulangel1658]

J Happy I get where she’s coming from

[@ingrid6752]

Sometimes the people our societies write off have so many more important insights than those we consider "normal "

[@quasimobius]

Bless her heart...she should go in for modelling, she likes fashion and she's prettier than many super models.

[@LuisRamirez-ln3cj]

I used to feel bad for people with disabilities for everything they would eventually miss out on and the trouble they would have to endure in this cruel world. But then I heard someone with a disability mention that they just want to be treated like everyone else. I realized that as long as they are alive and enjoying time with their family, they're blessed. There are many who have never even made it this far in life.

[@MrSimonw58]

Firstly ... learning disability is an excuse for laziness Secondly ... how do employers know she has a "learning disability"? ... Because that's how she introduces herself, (probably on first page of the CV too). Lazy and stupid is the problem, there's no such thing as a learning disability. Put your best face on, look smart, smile and do wtf you got to too

[@prisonmike4971]

For most people, a job is about money. For persons with disabilities, it is about a sense of community and belonging. Hope your still there portia

[@swallowedinthesea11]

That was deep! Thank you!

[@Iceis_Phoenix]

She is more intelligent and eloquently spoken than 80 percent of the employee's I work with.

[@bigballsgame5591]

I was dead on writing some vrey mean and horrible stereotypocal youtube comment in this very section just to troll this poor girl, but I decided to read some of these goddamn comments first, and to be honest, your comment is so funny, it partially and temporarily gave me my hope in humanity back.

[@keithbentley6081]

employees, not employee's. You form a plural with s. Apostrophe s is for possession, i.e. the employee's contract.

[@sunsetamor302]

@@keithbentley6081 Please relax maybe it was an auto correct.

[@adxre0]

@@keithbentley6081 😭 this is what u do on ur free time?

[@erwingunther2569]

That’s because she was raised properly.

[@karenfromva]

My daughter is 30. The same thing happened to my daughter with Goodwill. My daughter got along with everyone, was a hard worker, but they wouldn't put her in 2 full time position. Goodwill liked the cheap help. Now my daughter works at Dominios, yes, the pizza place. Dominios has been FANTASTIC!!!! They were patient with her, she has aspbergers. They realized their patients paid off. She is a fast strong worker!! She is smart and could do college, except her anxiety is so bad she can't do it....yet. In time she might go, she has to go step by step. Right now, she is happy. For the first time she has people who like her as she is. She is finally not bullied. Dominos is #1!

[@ceooflonelinessinc.267]

I am happy to hear that. God bless your daughter.

[@burly636]

I work for Goodwill. I quit after a week…

[@robertlewis9467]

I work at Goodwill as a Volunteer Administrative Assistant back in 2011 for 2 months and I was let go.

[@kuyke001]

She looks like a model. Maybe she could be a spokesperson for people with disabilities one day.

[@dreasmom2789]

Cynthia Kuykendall . Yes she is a beauty.

[@jwalt8019]

She is gorgeous.

[@gourmet2276]

Sahal E. M. Patel a learning disability.

[@gourmet2276]

Sahal E. M. Patel watch this documentary and you'll see how Portia feels.

[@MrZEEsterious]

Sahal www.educationcorner.com/mild-intellectual-disability.html this might help if you're still curious, this is some information on Mild intellectual disability which is what Portia has. I might have this too.

[@TB-pf5nt]

She has a high school degree. She rides horses and trains for Special Olympics in her free time. She has spent lots of time volunteering in her community. She is obviously independent and capable, not to mention that she looks like a supermodel. In so many ways, she is an ideal citizen, and yet she struggled so much just to find a productive place to fit in. When she's standing on the street with her parents after getting the job at the end, it's like the weight of the world has been lifted from her shoulders. This was a very moving video.

[@Jenny-tm3cm]

Yes exactly. We need more inclusion for all people

[@89hoefer]

“You need work experience but we’re not willing to hire you so you can get some.”

[@decimated550]

well, no employer has the obligation to hire someone without experience just for their sake. are you an adult? company owners have risk aversion and not because they are jerks, but because the profit margins are slim and they aren't in the social service business

[@willemh3319]

they want a 14 year old with 30 years of work experience

[@angelablair5110]

@@willemh3319 or someone w/the right color and appreciate vaccination status?

[@LePedant]

I work at a hotel, and we have a girl with autism come in a fold laundry for us. Even though it's just folding laundry it means the world to her to be able to be a "normal" person and to feel like she is contributing to society.

[@jopaea]

When mum got emotional about the work experience not seeing her potential tears filled my eyes.

[@AttitudeLive]

Thanks for watching jopaea!Hope you enjoyed our channel!

[@Chin.E.Pondue]

That got me too 🥺

[@ingrid6752]

jopaea oh my gosh me too. And she really tried to fight back the tears

[@soapmode]

@Sunny They are, Portia still has her job and also works as a public speaker for disability awareness and as a representative for the Special Olympics. Impressive stuff.

[@gryl.4030]

@@soapmode So happy to hear that! She deserves good in her life

[@larsoncarter6791]

hold up. youre telling me these people had an intellectually disabled girl work for them for free for 5 weeks in the name of "work experience" knowin damn well they were never going to give her a job?????

[@stevensavage2684]

I was thinking the same thing. Although at face value, it appears that they're "doing something for the greater good of society", that's all for appearances sake, because what they're really doing is getting free labor, while also getting tax breaks at the end of the year. It's disgusting that not a single person had the heart to see how much this special young lady desperately wanted to fit in and provide a service to be a functional individual in society to the best of her abilities. I understand that they feel that she might not be able to have the same output as someone with an IQ above 80 (not legally disabled in the US), but I guarantee they could do worse with most lazy and unfriendly "normal people". The girl had heart and that goes a long way, plus she'd bring a smile to everyone's face daily. That would have been worth it in the long run. It's their loss in many ways.

[@tmystery9505]

Pricks

[@joshuabarlow9048]

Quick pass a law so no disabled person can ever even try to get foot in the door anywhere... cause you may find yourself offended that they may get taken advantage of!

[@zecchinoroni]

@@joshuabarlow9048 That's a perfectly reasonable thing to be "offended" about.

[@joshuabarlow9048]

@@zecchinoroni That a company would risk employing a person w/ disability despite the massive liability of doing so, to give them a chance to work out. Then what... it doesn't work out and they cant find her a paid position? Why be offended.....be offended that others have made labor laws requiring minimum wages thus making it vastly harder for a person not able to provide minimum wage worth to find a job... that's something to be offended about.

[@katrinamoxam4930]

I feel her pain so much I struggle with a learning disability and a physical disability and no one gives u a chance it's so hard for people to understand we just need extra help and a opportunity. It's a great challenge in this world. Makes us totally loose hope. I have so many amazing talents yet I never am able to use them because I cant seem to get threw interviews or tests. I am a single mom on disability and wanting to work so much. I pray she gets a job I'm rooting for you sweetie. Your not alone ❤

[@kristinanicole6778]

❤❤❤❤

[@nikolatesla1296]

She should start a youtube channel and spread the word about her disability. She's also very pretty and tall, she could model. Bless her heart, she has such a warm soul.

[@lifegoeson1007]

Nikola Tesla this could be a really good idea, i know there’s some downsides but, if she looks past those it could lead her to a even better job

[@joshuawayneyork]

Great idea!

[@janjan6661]

No, youtubers are annoying. Thats not a job.

[@Jenny-tm3cm]

She should design a clothing line I’d buy it

[@westcountrywanderings]

@@janjan6661 Sorry I annoyed you.

[@dreasmom2789]

One if her best attributes is she cares about doing a good job.

[@marlonmendez5176]

Seriously, that alone makes her a better candidate than most employed people.

[@woodey028]

Beautifully put.

[@kristinanicole6778]

I love her determination

[@willleone7402]

This makes me feel like a right prick for wasting all the opportunities I had in life. God bless Portia.

[@iamsusiecarmichael6650]

Will Leone my exact thought..

[@metsdiehard8066]

Not too late

[@damienholland8103]

Maybe they weren't good opportunities.

[@conclaveluminis]

Damn straight. Time for me to make some adjustments to my attitude too. I hope Portia's out there right now still kicking butt!

[@TheInfowarrior89]

Will Leone right..

[@wombatperson5431]

As an employer I wouldn't be concerned about her ability to do the job, I would be concerned about how horrible the customers could be. They'll freak out over anything especially because they wouldn't understand her background. She seems like a really nice girl....I hope things got better for her in the last 4 years

[@bluekita6712]

I have a learning disability so I know what’s it’s like in her shoes Where I work at i love it right now

[@thebeylaflenory]

@@bluekita6712 Yes me too, I like working I'll be a CSR I was one before I know I can do great things.

[@bluekita6712]

@@thebeylaflenory what’s a CSR

[@kap849]

@@bluekita6712 Corporate Social Responsibility?

[@97AshleyRose]

@@bluekita6712 same

[@homoxymoronomatura]

It gets sad when you realize that she will probably have to struggle like this for the rest of her life. I wish her to find her place and to be happy.

[@BigManPigMan628]

She has the best family one can ask for, a great personality, and a healthy and very attractive body. She will be fine I think. Especially when she finds the right man to look after her.

[@abcdef8915]

@@BigManPigMan628 she doesn't need a man to look after her. In fact if it was a video about a guy with a learning disability i would say he doesnt need a woman. A person only needs self reliance. Anything else is just a bonus.

[@BigManPigMan628]

@@abcdef8915 Anybody with a learning disability like that needs other people to look after them. She has family looking after her, but they can't look after her forever. Only a mate will do that. Man or woman.

[@koalafromtomorrow5656]

Why don't you help make a world that care about people do One nice thing for your nehgibor without expecting anything in return

[@junbh2]

@@BigManPigMan628 If she finds a partner it would have to be a peer. A sexual relationship between an average man and a young woman with her disabilities would be deeply deeply unethical and exploitative. Hopefully her parents would protect her from such a situation! It is one of the most frightening things to consider if I had a child with such a disability. If she found a real partner (who she could have an equal partnership with!), they could perhaps get assistants to help them with whatever they needed help with.

[@jejelaurent9495]

God bless her parent for being a supporting her.

[@HeathLedgersChemist]

The same god that gave her the disability in the first place? Great idea.

[@Losimantom]

@@HeathLedgersChemist ok boomer

[@riaranta3150]

“God bless her parents for being so supportive” 👌🏻

[@xridex400]

She probably hasn’t got a job because her mum is helicoptering over her shoulder at every interview/opportunity

[@user-gu1hl2kx2k]

imagine you have that but you dont have parents that support you.

[@eatymceatison97]

Breaks my heart to see her mother cry like that. I think she should be insanely proud of her daughter. She's so driven to work, despite her disability. In a world where lots of non-disabled people want to make it seem like they're disabled so as not to have to work, that's a wonderful attitude to have. Portia, you rock. And mom, you too, because you refuse to let your daughter settle for uneployment. :*

[@Disability4s]

Me too😭😭

[@LadyGertie2012]

I have a family member with learning disabilities. It’s extremely difficult for these young adults to find employment and be given a chance and it impacts their self esteem. We as a society need to do more for our special needs young adults so that they can be successful and independent adults.

[@Florentina-ox9xq]

I am 24, finished highschool, finished post highschool massage school 3 years ago and I still haven't found a job. Most spas in Bucharest rejected me and never offered me a chance! I feel like nobody understands I want to work and I can work! If anyone would randomly offer me a chance I'll make a 1,000,000 dollars loan as soon as I am eligeable to thank him/her for actually calling me and allowing me to try to see if I like what I would do! Thank you!

[@graceplayzrobloxz1098]

@@Florentina-ox9xq do I look like I have a disability? And I watched a few videos of disability people now I’m worry about my future I’m 22 about to be 23 on august 5th

[@Florentina-ox9xq]

@@graceplayzrobloxz1098 Not at all! Take care of yourself!

[@graceplayzrobloxz1098]

@@Florentina-ox9xq idk I should be in heaven rn tbh

[@graceplayzrobloxz1098]

@@Florentina-ox9xq I wanna marry my true love in heaven ❤️

[@thesmellgoodguy3770]

She should be a bank teller to replace the rude one I encountered

[@thesmellgoodguy3770]

@Joey Lucas you have a valid point

[@sue4245]

She would need a lot of training. When she was at the Red Cross shop she had problem counting out the $13 change.

[@chrisreynolds6391]

Nowadays they just tell you to go to the ATM. You need to get a manager to get anything done.

[@nomam7358]

Haha

[@ShyerLady]

I was fired as a cashier for not being able to count money and calculating age selling alcohol, fired for not being able to figure out how to water flowers at a grocery store, fired as a nursing aid cuz I just couldnt do it. I quit retail cuz i couldnt handle the people and the fast pace environment. I quit as a waitress cuz I couldnt match food with tables and almost fainted from the stress of being a waitress. Quit nail salons cuz i was too slow. Now I finally found a job that I can do. Portia has done the same. I can relate, Im proud an happy for her!

[@AttitudeLive]

Thanks for watching ShyerLady, hope you enjoyed!

[@musicality3197]

I being a cashier all my life and i have adhd i love it but I'm to dumb for office work lol

[@marydehaan1991]

It us important to not start feeling sorry for yourself and sometimes you gave to start out doing a job ghst might not exactly be wag you want---but the job gets your foot in the door and maybe you can get a job promotion at a later date. Good luck sith your job.

[@marydehaan1991]

Csn't believe her mother went into the interview with her dsughter!! The mother just said that it us unbelievable!!! Yes the mother us unbelievzble--how she reads thus and steps back and lets her daughter grow up!!! She needs to learn to let go!!!

[@jessicamacleod9766]

@@marydehaan1991 I absolutely agree with you. That is very embarrassing, that makes her look bad, i moved out of my mom's house and got my own apartment away from her, she didn't go that far but she humiliated me in other similar ways, i semi have a relationship now, but i keep my financial and general life choices to myself and not share those with her. So i definitely agree with you

[@chelawelch7244]

She would make a good model! Good bone structure, and beautiful inside and out!

[@AttitudeLive]

Hope you enjoyed the episode ! Thanks for watching!😀

[@garrett34dylan]

Chela welch lmao wot m8 ? Not with that subpar aesthetic face. I forgot the standard of aesthetics in uk is extremely lower than here in the us.

[@RaikenXion]

I agree shes very beautiful in her facial features 10:49 I can see she looks alot like Catherine Zeta Jones, and then what makes her truly beautiful is seeing her keep getting out there and not giving up she just wants to live like everyone else a normal life and be part of society. I really hope she find love one day she deserves that companionship, how proud and happy her parents would be to see her get married and all that, they're proud of what shes achieved already.

[@marydauby5229]

I thought the same thing

[@anonymousforever]

+garrett34dylan yeah the standard in the US is all fake plastic people. You can't handle reality. Also this is New Zealand not the UK, ignorant idiot. And stop insulting the girl. Bet you are no movie star yourself. Those who put other people down are usually ugly themselves.

[@jamesdevries1218]

I relate to Portia, learning/processing disabilities are so frustrating when you have graduated from college but people turn you away due to the fact you need reminders

[@Florentina-ox9xq]

I don't think that's the case all the time! My memory is great, I almost never forget anything. I struggle more with concentration.

[@quekbridget5988]

@@Florentina-ox9xq ah same I am not diagnosed with anything , but there's issues with concentration it affects studying not really reading which is a hobby of mine. It kind of sucks trying so hard but not able to get the grade as it's hard to focus. Portia is trying so hard to get a job here and noone hiring here just feels sad.

[@CuteLewaczka]

@@quekbridget5988 that can be ADHD or autism

[@nuyorican91st]

I feel so bad for her.i was in special education all my life.from 1st grade all the way to 11th grade so I know the challenges and the public's view of people who process things much slower.we are all human and all equal

[@NhN-jw9tu]

same

[@jordanboteler8978]

borderlands skag gang I’m going into high school had it since I was a toddler

[@nuyorican91st]

@@jordanboteler8978 we are all brothers here.we know how its been and the struggles of learning compared to regular kids.i never bothered with college because my entry test scores were too low...even trying for the asvab for the military my scores were of a challenged person.

[@nuyorican91st]

@@jordanboteler8978 hey little brother stay strong man.youll be ok.

[@nuyorican91st]

@@jordanboteler8978 hey btw that is a very nice fridge! And those are some nice LED lights.

[@donnaphilben6325]

I hope she dosent get bullied if she gets a job....some people can be very cruel.

[@amazingabby25]

Rick koontz not really, wtf

[@howmathematicianscreatemat9226]

Lacking analytical intelligence doesnt mean you dont feel when you are exploited. Two different pair of shoes.

[@howmathematicianscreatemat9226]

@Rick koontz its delusional. Look how Trump disgustingly mocked a disabled man and you will see that means that most republican Bosses will not tollerate risking their Profits with people they secretely cannot respect at all.

[@ericweiss777]

mega dittos

[@saraha6079]

I have Aspergers and can sort of relate to her based on how people assume her to not have a disability simply because she has a neat tidy attire and a groomed appearance. But then I feel people judge her because of the way she expresses herself, monotonous and monosyllabic speech. I've had difficulty getting jobs in the past too, especially relating to my Degree. We live in a judgemental world unfortunately.

[@itsvenombro3058]

Love Life i been home for 7years i cant find a job there put me in special education it made my life in to hell

[@geekygirl2596]

I have aspergers too. I have had a psychotic break and have slight cp as well. I am not wheelchair bound and aside from a concurrent yeast and fungal infection on my scalp, I dont look disabled in any way. I have had plenty of jobs, 3 of which lasted a year or more. Then in 2017, my last "steady job" was work study in a college. I worked for almost a year until 2017 when I no longer qualified. Since may of that year I have not been able to find a job. And the two I have had since both fired me for being slow. I had 5 jobs prior that honestly the employers loved me but I had to quit (except one where the store closed and I got laid off), so I seriously doubt I'm slow. I honestly have no idea why am "not employable" so to speak but still should be able to work. I have asked everyone I can think of including the workforce center near me but they have no clue either. Or so they say.

[@emmaelson6770]

​@@geekygirl2596 I have Aspergers Too. My last firing experience was classic Aspergers. I worked in food service and I wasn't paying attention to my surroundings one day and got caught by one of my coworkers picking my nose in a public space, not only was in unsanitary but it also could have been a health hazard. I guess I thought no one could see me, because that's how my brain is wired. I love working with food, but now can't get a job in food service anymore and it's all because of that stupid little thing

[@alalalala57]

@@tommywiseau3696 k

[@js.s8832]

@@tommywiseau3696 Oh wow, you're so original & clever aren't you? Grow up.

[@jaminova_1969]

I knew a kid in High school who had a learning disability and he worked his way up to manager at a Pizza Hut! I wish Portia the best, because it's not easy to face rejection. I'm happy she persevered and got the job! This video is a few years old, any updates?

[@Florentina-ox9xq]

If she sees your comment I'm sure she might choose to come to you and see if she's a match! If I wouldn't live in Romania I would come to you in 1 second seeing this comment! You are the FIRST person to actually want to hire a person with intellectual disabilities! I am 24, finished highschool, finished post highschool massage school 3 years ago and I still haven't found a job. Most spas in Bucharest rejected me and never offered me a chance! I feel like nobody understands I want to work and I can work! If anyone would randomly offer me a chance I'll make a 1,000,000 dollars loan as soon as I am eligeable to thank him/her for actually calling me and allowing me to try to see if I like what I would do! Thank you!

[@lv9265]

@@Florentina-ox9xq I'm from Bulgaria and if I had a spa business, I would hire you. Unfortunately I have disabilities too...

[@Florentina-ox9xq]

@@lv9265 I truly appreciate your generosity! By the way, we are neighbours!

[@lv9265]

@@Florentina-ox9xq Yes, we are! Hi Balkan neighbor! ❤️🖐🏼

[@Florentina-ox9xq]

@@lv9265 Nice to meet you!

[@damwaterthomas1980]

I've had a disability all my life and even worked through a temp agency. It was a horrible experience and didn't get treated very good. Even worked 12 hour days and 12 hour nights. Overall working in a full time job and have a steady job nowadays. However, having a learning disability has been difficult. My real dad was very rude towards me growing up and attendant public school wasn't a great experience. Everyone has probably been there and feeling alone. So please don't give up and fight harder for your dreams always. Nothing comes easy and everyone struggles for success having a disability.

[@tezrh]

That's excellent advice for everyone. Thanks

[@Thomas-me7xf]

THEN GET ANOTHER JOB

[@Thomas-me7xf]

AND HOPE U GET THE BEST OF LUCK AND GET A HAPPY LIFE IN THE FUTURE WISH U ALL THE BEST OF LUCK AND HOPE U WILL GET ONE JOB I THINK U WILL LIKE WORK FOR THE DISABILITIES WORKPLACE FOR DECENT PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES

[@Thomas-me7xf]

DO NOT LET THEM TURN U DOWN U HAVE A DISABILITIES U CANNOT CHANGE IT I HOPE U UNDERSTAND THEY ARE STUBBORN

[@swastipriya3058]

What job are you working now?

[@marlendeluna4936]

she's beautiful

[@AttitudeLive]

Thank you for watching Marlen 😊

[@tudormiller8898]

Mary Deehan. You say her mum shouldn't be in the interview with her and let Portia grow up. Well her dad was there in the interviews too. Her parents are there to support her, Portia feels more comfortable having them in the room with her. What's wrong with that. With Portia's learning disabilities, it's easy for her to feel intimidated or overwhelmed during interviews, so having her parents there makes her feel at ease. That's ok.

[@galaxymasterdave2969]

@Sahal E. M. Patel She's a Kiwi. This was filmed in New Zealand.

[@jeromecabral7464]

She's beautiful thank you for sharing good luck in the future

[@truthseeker7894]

Marlen Deluna yes very and even more beautiful is her heart and spirit 👍🏻👍🏻

[@SuperDinolover123]

I have multiple learning disabilities and am currently an assistant store manager at my current job. You can do it! Don't give up!

[@katmanduxo-qs8zy]

Come be my store manager 😎

[@juicykisses8789]

☺️

[@katmanduxo-qs8zy]

@@juicykisses8789 😎😎

[@geekygirl2596]

How did you get your job and keep it?

[@phiagirl6284]

Wooo!! You go!!

[@Leksa135]

I'm 29 years old and just got my first job.

[@hawaii3231]

Why not earlier?

[@Leksa135]

@@hawaii3231 Because I was never hired. Why? I don't know. (Of course lack of experience was one of the reasons, especially after my early 20s)

[@Visigoth_]

I have a learning disability; it keeps you from fitting into society (I'm slower than everyone I knowor meet). I've had to make my own jobs. Find things that you can sell (this is hard without help from a family member). - In competitive market; why would they ever choose to give you a job? They only way she's going to find a job is if it's a special program or a handout. It only gets harder when your parents die, she's lucky to have sisters. - My heart goes out to her. Maybe get into Larp they tend to be great accepting communities. You can't give up, there's nothing else.

[@SirShoX0r]

She's one of the most employable people I've ever seen.

[@bellefeu4933]

She is more capable than 50%+ of the lowest minimum wage workers. It's sad people see, "disabled", and immediately abandon hiring protocol.

[@outogetyougotyou5250]

No offence but I wouldn't employ her unless it was in a menial job like on a factory floor. Otherwise it's far too ineffective to essentially babysit her and her retrain her constantly. I wish her the best but I think her parents also need to establish her expectations because of her disability as I feel she's applying for jobs she has little to no chance in obtaining.

[@SirShoX0r]

​@@outogetyougotyou5250 it's difficult to know for sure from this short video, but her capabilities seem in excess of those needed for your typical entry-level position. And her attitude is far and away better than what's needed. I think the family had their heads screwed on correctly, they aren't expecting her to be aerospace engineer but there's absolutely no reason why she can't contribute to society. I'm sure there are plenty of more capable people looking for excuses not to work, so it's refreshing to see someone with a valid reason not to work being so enthusiastic about it.

[@outogetyougotyou5250]

@@SirShoX0r I completely agree but I felt like some of those retail jobs, where she's 1 on 1 with the customer may be pushing have been going beyond her abilities for her 1st job. Either way great attitude and seems like a lovely young woman. Best of luck to her.

[@flipgunderson1946]

@@SirShoX0r You motor-boatin' son of a bitch

[@elizabethadams2113]

That smile when she realized she got the job was just so beautiful! I wish her all the best and I know she will do well. She is a gorgeous young lady and I hope her confidence blooms again, she has so much to offer:)

[@jamesfranklyn8547]

I'd love to see a follow up on Portias journey. Great video, really enjoyed that, just a shame issues like this in society take so friggin long to change.

[@PBandJ229]

When I hear people speak of their struggles, like this girl, it makes me wish I could hug them and erase all of the world's cruelties. A person's worth can never be measured by a test. She is perfect to me. Beautiful young lady.

[@rainey06au]

She looks like a lovely young girl. I was kinda thinking a bookstore that's low energy and pretty relaxed would be well suited. Customers who like to read seem to be patient and well mannered and I think would be generally welcoming to someone with a disability like her.

[@kavitamins]

Whew, I came across this video having seen it when it first aired. I'm the customer at 14.52. At the time, I worked at Red Cross Retail but on a different shift than Portia. She's a special young lady and I'm really happy to see that she's flourished since then.

[@OkinInc]

Kavita Singh both you and Portia could be models. 👍

[@tg8303]

How is she now? What does she do?

[@katjerouac]

@captain_ahab wtf??

[@darkman35]

@captain_ahab Go away troll.

[@lotuswar]

How is portia doing and how are you doing?

[@KNIGHT-T1ME]

I would love to have her as an employee. Don’t give up. She inspires me.

[@kurliigurlii]

Go Knights!

[@marcb8934]

Employers don't do enough to accommodate individuals like the young lady in this video. Worldwide better acceptance is needed.

[@JHeartsJ]

Yay Portia!! I legit screamed when she got the got job haha. So excited for her. She totally deserves all the success that's bound to come her way 💕💕💕💕

[@AttitudeLive]

Thanks for the support J Hearts J! We're sure Portia would really appreciate it too! stay tuned!

[@johnboy384]

Awesome aye!

[@evilbunnyofhorror]

Right?! ❤

[@user-jq8qv4yx4h]

But it was tailor-made for her, or someone with a disability, so it really wasn't won by her own abilities.

[@levicollins3498]

l\ ssh you kill joy

[@kendiansongi4010]

My heart goes out to her. I was diagnosed with learning disability along with speach and language difficulties. I know what it's like to have people judge you and especially at work. And it makes me sick how this society neglects people with special needs.

[@awesomekidhero1963]

Straight up started crying when her smile started cracking after she was finally offered the job position in the end.

[@travisg9294]

I've lived the struggle for a long time. A learning disability is really bad to live with if you're an ambitious person. You see all these paths you'd like to pursue, but can't because it requires a college degree.

[@ashleighdee-ann-butterflyj1997]

And even if you have a degree, you’re still not guaranteed a job. I’m autistic and have a degree but still struggle to find a job because I’m not great in interviews even though I’m more than qualified and capable of doing the job. I feel like I wasted all the hard work and effort I put into getting my degree while watching all my friends who didn’t go to uni getting jobs super easily and being way further than me in life. It sucks.

[@decimated550]

stop, stop thinking college i s the path to a better life. FOr millions upon millions, it is the path to destruction. You come out having chosen an easy degree because of cautiousness or laziness, then it's worth nothing, and then you pick up some bad ideas long the way about time out and safe spaces, then you're older and in debt and should have gone into trades.

[@MM-ng5wc]

There was so many things I was interested in but like dance, it requires to remember choreography but I bad memory. I would had a deep passion in dance

[@thahardcoreloyd4666]

True I'm 19 and just got outta high-school dealing with the same thing

[@SliceySlicer]

She speaks in such a sweet and innocent tone.

[@cillianblue]

Love this family's dedication and support in helping their daughter get a job. She's a wonderful young adult and will be a great asset to any employer. I loved that she found a job! Would enjoy seeing a follow-up story

[@avakerry431]

She is so sweet, mature, and GORGEOUS!!

[@madhatter5831]

This breaks my heart, I have a learning disability too and this happened to me so many times! It took me so long to find a job. The only way could get an interview was to try to give CV’s without my parents because they thought I couldn’t work on my own. It’s also upsetting to be judged by people who have a narrowed view of what disability looks like.

[@moviesandstuffwithmikemike4298]

The micro expressions in Portias face when it was clear she was gonna get the job were 😎 awesome

[@h3h3eot]

I would give her a job if she was local. She just needs a chance.....

[@toddski14]

h3h3eot agreed, I’d take her right away!

[@amazinglats6020]

well, at the end of the video she got a job.

[@astoldbygingermoments3482]

Are you still hiring ? 🥺

[@Disability4s]

I like this response. watch disabled mentors and mentees in our channel

[@WiseSilverWolf]

Hopefully she found a job, its hard enough to find a job without any learning disabilities I cant even imagine how hard it would be with a learning disability.

[@saraha6079]

In the UK, Many people can claim disability known as PIP and they can volunteer and work if they want to. However many people with learning disabilities like Portia are tricked into losing disability due to assessors asking questions not related to their disability and assessor being ablist.. The fact that it's very hard to get a job too means many have no choice but to live in poverty. Especially if they have no family contacts. A lot of people with disabilities are on the streets and society looks down on them and assumes they are drug dealers and didn't make the right choices in life.

[@natashiajohnson8251]

Portia it was nice to see that you had extremely supportive parents during your transition of job hunting. We all need support. Your parents knew you had it in you.

[@alexschmidt2895]

Agreed wish my parents where this understanding when I was in my youth years

[@shoonyah]

2 lessons learnt....smaller companies are more receptive and welcoming in offering work to people with disabilities. Corporates n more interested in profits. Second, never give up , never give up on yourself and people you love.

[@outogetyougotyou5250]

3. Apply for jobs with your abilities and experience. :)

[@outogetyougotyou5250]

@may day Yeah like dreamt, spelt.....it's generally used by the UK, Aus, NZ

[@musicgirl999]

That’s not true. Grocery stores are pretty good about giving people with disabilities a chance as well.

[@shoonyah]

@@musicgirl999 sure, the question is, is it self driven motivation of practising equity or the requirement to have a provision for fair employment opportunities for all because the law requires one to be do. Its about the intention, nothing is absolute.

[@ms.michealh893]

I'm not disabled but I have found myself in her position of not being able to find job for a long time. It was so frustrating! I can't imagine how much more Portia and her family were! Blessings to her in her job and life! Way to go girl!!! :-)

[@AttitudeLive]

Thanks for the support Ms. Michael H! we hope you enjoyed the episode!

[@PoeLemic]

Ms. Michael: Yeah, I know what you mean. It's very hard for "normal people" to get work and keep it. Just imagine if you're more challenged, then that makes it so much even harder. So, I am happy with what she accomplished. Portia did incredible but she worked hard for it.

[@bushrahsumayyah3437]

This was actually heartbreaking to watch as someone with a intellectual disability . It really hurts to see how many people with disabilities are not accepted in certain jobs because of learning or a developmental struggles that they have. This world needs to change honestly.

[@spartan2188]

What a great story. Portia was looking for a job for two and a half years, but with the help of her parents she never gave up and kept on fighting, even though she has a disability. Companies need to be more open minded about people with disabilities. Portia really does care about doing a good job, it shows. People who have no disabilities should watch this video to appreciate how lucky they are not to have health problems.

[@vegasrider7287]

Such a sweetheart, would be a great employee I think. She actually cares.

[@Christian_Girl120]

I work with a bunch who don't care, and it's sad.

[@moniquescott89]

Congratulations Portia! it's awesome how she persevered until she obtained a position.

[@AttitudeLive]

Thanks for watching Monique! Hope you enjoyed!

[@RaikenXion]

Yes its inspirational, with the right amount of support, to help build their confidence, then they reach that point where they can manage themselves, then they go on to help others and it goes arnd, thats how it should be.

[@chickedeedee292]

Life is tough enough without having learning difficulties. She is in a very vulnerable situation unfortunately, especially as her parents age. Thank goodness she has two sisters for backup.

[@fuzzycublb]

I work for a non-profit agency in a job development services program. In my role, I assist individuals with developmental disabilities find employment. I’ve actually had employers say to me, in front of my clients, “oh yeah, we have one of those working here already” and “well, what’s her disability?” and “it wouldn’t work out because we’ve never had to work with someone like him before.” But, there are those special people who just get it. They’re open to giving the opportunity to a client because they are able to see beyond the disability. Those successful interviews have me crying alone in my car, once that offer of employment has been extended to my client.

[@EppingForest304]

This video is over 3 years old... I wonder if there's an update on how she's getting along nowadays

[@tg8303]

Same here

[@krenn08]

Third that.

[@timothyoehrlein4139]

I was curious as well and couldn't find anything regarding current employment, but I did find she competed in and won a bronze medal at the Special Olympics World Games back in March! With that said, she seems to be doing well! If you want to look her up, her last name is Johnson (i.e. her full name is Portia Johnson)

[@tg8303]

@@timothyoehrlein4139 wow good for her! Thanks man.

[@timothyoehrlein4139]

@@tg8303 No worries!

[@DullardGuy]

Portia is easily a model with those good looks. Surprised she's not been picked up.

[@booboolou8505]

Danymity I’m thinking the same thing. And she’s tall too. They should take her to an agency!

[@Basketballerphx]

Absolutely not. That industry is so fucked and she'd get taken advantage of.

[@tudormiller8898]

She's definitely got the height. 👍👍

[@thelegendkillersshittyduff1335]

@@Basketballerphx Yea if that happened hope the humans that took advantage of her die in a ditch

[@crs290]

@@Basketballerphx Yep. The women that work in that industry would likely give her an eating disorder.

[@essenceofpeace1446]

I have an undocumented learning disability. In the school they didn't want yo labrl anyone. For years I search for work and couldn't find anything. I just froze in interviews and though I knew what to say, I couldn't say it for fear that they would accept the answer. It is really difficult when you get older. I can lead and I write peace treaties, but I can't get a job anywhere.

[@KissofDeath63]

undocumented and undiagnosed learning disability here,since i was a child i haven't had any support from both school and parents,until one day i wanted to do some tests and that's how i found out that i have 65iq,that was SAD and also happy day for me because it was basically a revelation on who i am and why i struggled so much on everything.

[@swastipriya3058]

Hey, I have always thought myself to have an undiagnosed learning disability as well. I find everyday life difficult, let alone interviews. How are you guys doing at the moment?

[@1stPersonStateConsciousness]

This girl has more heart and fire than I do, a grown man, unemployed in my city. I've tried looking for work for a couple months, having experienced critiques review my resume, and still nothing. Stopped trying 3 months ago after shredding my hip flexors resulting in being bid ridden. Tomorrow, I'm getting up and am going to get back on it! Stay Hard!

[@BIBLE-a-s-m-r]

Audible

[@Pro1938ftc3ch]

How's it going

[@denisemurphy-hayes3745]

Yay! I'm so glad Portia got a job! I met Portia through People First NZ leadership forum in Christchurch in 2014. Her confidence has grown so much since I met her there, I could see that straight away.

[@dreasmom2789]

Denise Hayes Thats good to know I like follow ups. Thanks for sharing.

[@reverendrobertparsimony8475]

Such a beautiful happy smile when she got the job. You go Portia!

[@AttitudeLive]

Thanks for the support Mack!

[@forgedabouted]

I'm so happy she has sisters! They will always have each other's back!

[@lalam209]

I can feel her pain. Been job hunting for 4 years with no luck due to my social anxiety. Would love to hear an update on Portia and how shes doing now :)

[@Christisrisen1324]

God wants you to give your struggles to him

[@Christisrisen1324]

God wants you to ask him for help.

[@lalam209]

@@Christisrisen1324 he’s heard my prayers for sure :) a sweet guardian angel has been sent my way and I am now a commissioned graphic note taker for a small group and they plan on helping me find jobs in the art industry. I am forever thankful 🙏

[@Christisrisen1324]

@@lalam209 Blessed are those who believe in Jesus Christ and accept him into their lives.

[@careemjohnson3550]

@@Christisrisen1324 How do I go about asking God about it

[@Elena-to1ne]

I am so happy she got a job

[@AttitudeLive]

Thanks for watching Elena! Hope you enjoyed!

[@holistictarzan3844]

I see her as a meditation teacher or therapist. She has the gift of understanding. Working in retail can cause much overstimulation and anxiety and it is heightened when one has a psychological disability. It is best to go towards jobs for empathetic people. Animals are also great to work with. Volunteer and work in old folks home. There are so many jobs that do not involve retail, I learned that with my ADHD and LD to focus on my strengths and my weakness pops up in retail as I have bad memory and died with anxiety in restaurants. I send her energy to build a community of relaxation and self love. Do not let anyone rush you in life, you are Loved. Namasté ✨PS her mom is so understanding and patient, my mom is the opposite but this gives me hope that there are people out there who do care. Huge Congrats to the job Portia, save that money to be a community leader Bella.♥️ You da Boss.

[@outogetyougotyou5250]

She got a job well within her ability. A meditation teacher or therapist seems far beyond her ability. Also volunteers aren't paid so somewhat defeats what she was trying to achieve. You sound like a new age hippie.

[@capttug812]

Had tears. She is beautiful. What an asset it would be to have her. I could listen to her heavenly voice all day.

[@themasterblaster3644]

it's heartbreaking to watch, because you know in her heart, Portia wants so desperately to work and her disability is preventing her from achieving that goal, i am so glad a employer gave her a chance for paid employment and wish her the best in the future, her parents and sisters are very supportive, and kudos to Portia for never giving up and wanting more in her life, especially a paid job.

[@lunashadow1521]

Be a disability campaign model and help people see others with disabilities are normal people!

[@AttitudeLive]

Thank you for watching, hope you enjoyed!

[@taingakawathompson1674]

Hello Portia, my wife and I are truly and sincerly encouraged by your effort and the great support your family has given. Our son Toots aka Tutengaehe is attending Hillcrest ILC, the 2nd term next year will be Tute's last year there. He's looking forward to joining CLT and similar to yourself he's very keen to find employment. Honestly Portia, to you and your family a huge thank you for showing that persistence and time pays off, and any thing is achievable. Well done Portia, well done.

[@AttitudeLive]

Thank you so much for the kind supporting message Tai!! We hope the best for your boy. Hope you enjoyed the episode and thanks again for watching!

[@jennvalenz5951]

Toots.

[@BltchErica]

Her parents are so lovely! She's such a sweetie.

[@jamesdevries1218]

Don’t pitty Portia.. support her with encouragement. We all have mountains to climb.

[@abara5678]

The undying love of parents. Portia is a true warrior. This whole family is inspiring.

[@AttitudeLive]

Thanks for watching Abara! 😀

[@thenson2263]

I am happy for this young lady. I have noticed that many people in the comments are confusing intellectual disability and learning disability.

[@ErdbeerKse]

She has such a lovely smile I hope she never lets people take away her happiness

[@Softnsweetbb]

My heart broke when she said she didn’t get it. Baby girl!!!! They don’t know what they’re missing out on. And I know this has nothing to do with this, but you are so beautiful! I’m 26, and aesthetician , and and I pay a lot of attention to people’s skin and facial features and you my dear are a gorgeous girl. Much love from Los Angeles California ❤️❤️❤️

[@BingBongDillyDong]

My best friend has a learning disability and is dyslexic, Im currently helping him with his dmv test and driving. Hopefully a job could be next. Thanks for posting this.

[@AttitudeLive]

Thats wonderful Ariana! Glad to have you as part of our community! Thanks for watching!

[@abara5678]

Good stuff man.. good stuff!

[@joserosiles8091]

Bless your soul

[@geekygirl2596]

It could be! My uncle is dyslexic and could barely read when he graduated high school. That was in the 60s. Now he owns his own buissness and his wife does the bookeeping.

[@dreadthedreads]

I have dyslexia! I got my licence. It was hard to pass the test. The driving is easy I had to take the test twice. I have been driving for ten years (more without my license) I have never had a wreck and people like me to drive them. I have a full time job. And have for many years. I graduated high school an average student. Would have went to college if I would have had the money. I am a horse riding instructor and trainer. I have been a waffle house cook a waitress and now work at Honda making cars(production) I have a boyfriend and rent a place. Friends like you were a true blessing. Just someone to have your back. And treat you normally and have a good time together. Just as much as you help your friend with their issues they return the favor in many ways.

[@DJSt3rling]

i really admire how supportive her family is.

[@chrisyeomans5547]

This breaks my heart so much she's an angel

[@eastfrisianguy]

My niece also has a learning disability. She suffers from a severe form of dyscalculia, is very introverted and with her twelve years of age she is mentally more like a 7-8 year old. My stepsister fought, and she was accepted at a regular school, gets support lessons in an inclusion class with four other students with learning disabilities. The school did not like this at all, they told her to go to a special school for children with mental handicaps, the teachers at the school show partly open disinterest with the pupils with handicaps. That makes me furious. Here in Germany the world of work is also very hard - I was rather an average student and fought for my bachelor's degree. As a thanks for that I work in a call centre despite almost three hundred applications, just because I didn't belong to the 20% best students of my University and it seems no company wants to give me a chance. This really destroyed my self-esteem, I can totally understand Portia's situation! I am very worried about how my niece will fare later on. I'll support her with all my heart and passion and hope she will find a suitable work place then!

[@jessiewrites4753]

She looks like a beautiful model!

[@AttitudeLive]

Thanks for your kind words Jessie! Hope you enjoyed the episode!

[@melissarosario6176]

Jessie Writes yeah definitely

[@CaptPicard81]

She dresses really well, she has a good eye for fashion

[@jessp3021]

She's got 2 sisters :-)

[@MilesCobbett]

Seeing her get the job at the end was Awesome. She and her family were so happy it made me cry for happy in celebration.

[@annemorgan2064]

Way to go Portia! Thank you for this, people with disabilities need to be seen as valuable members of our communities! Portia deserves to have a job that she finds rewarding. Loved it!

[@sadiemccarley]

Her personality is so sweet and genuine, and I agree, she is a gorgeous young lady that could definitely model and perhaps become an advocate for learning disabilities. There are plenty of jobs that she could do in the retail and food industry, or grocery stores, and even more!

[@AttitudeLive]

Thanks for watching Sadie McCarley 😊

[@sadiemccarley]

I'd love to be your friend, but I live in the United States. If you ever need a pen pal, let me know. That would be a lot of fun!

[@lindsaywright6487]

I have ADHD and I work at a bakery :) so this is very uplifting

[@AttitudeLive]

Glad you enjoyed the episode Lindsay! Thanks for watching

[@user-ku1sd3iq5k]

That's really great for you :). However, that isn't the same as a learning disability.

[@hayman122]

100% agree. I have adhd as well but it dosent effect me much well im used to it though its annoying it dosent truly limit any intellect. Edit ive never taken any medication for it only time i struggled was in school physically when i would constantly feel limited and get sdrenaline dishes high heartbeat at resting moments or in quiet rooms

[@ashton8289]

ADHD is way over diagnosed but assuming you actually have it, it’s nothing compared to a disability such as this. Honestly I don’t even see it as comparable.

[@milanorichie]

@@ashton8289 agreed.

[@nuyorican91st]

This brings tears to my eyes.i feel the pain but I feel joy that this girl is fearless and willing to go all out and just be accepted.i hope god blesses her and makes her successful

[@kolinevans9127]

I’m not going to lie, I’ve spent my life avoiding a ‘job’ mostly for the same reason this girl is struggling with them.

[@kolinevans9127]

Cumberpatch Fingerbottom agreement.

[@kolinevans9127]

Cumberpatch Fingerbottom also Yang just dropped :’(

[@nutanfatech504]

Me also have understanding disability. But anyhow i managed

[@Christisrisen1324]

God wants you to give your struggles to him

[@foreverchristina1966]

This reminds me of the journey I've been on to find full-time work as someone with an invisible disability. Congrats to Portia for her new job!

[@guts5379]

i have aspergers and I collect carts for a retail store. All I had to do was keep my autism from showing for that interview and I would have the job. Acting lessons has helped me behave like other people, thats why I got the job. Also, you've got to have a thick skin dealing with people when you have a disability because people can be very mean and impatient.

[@MetalLover7]

Its sad how hard it is for disabled people to find work, and I have seen how hard it is for them to as one of my best friends has disabilities had a very hard time finding jobs in the past and shes very capable of doing a lot of things. This girl in the video seems very sweet and also very smart, i dont care if she maybe slower she still capable as long as you give her a chance to learn

[@jameskirk9996]

What a sweet, sincere young lady. I had the pleasure of home educating my autistic grandson for 7 years. He is now in a charter school. With Logan, we identified his strong points and he is working towards a welding job. Bless you Portia, and mom and dad for keeping her strong.

[@kathyharrington1152]

I am so proud of Portia for her determination.

[@jimb4924]

I have a learning disability and I am 44 years old. I'm married with three wonderful kids and have a successful career. If you work hard you can do anything in this country.

[@AquariusLeviathanProphecy]

God ➕ u 🙌🙏

[@uuesgirl]

I literally cried when she got that job. That smile on her face, wow. She freaking deserves this job!!!!! You rock, Portia! ❤💪

[@samhouston1673]

She could to take notes and create her on reference sheet to use at her fingertips to help her memory. Works great for dealing with technical challenges or when there is great deal of information that has to be recalled from memory. From watching this video, I can tell that she is a person that really needs to work where her passion is. Portia, you are a courageous young woman. Always look at life's challenges with a smile on your face. In other words, keep up that positive attitude that you have.

[@MilesCobbett]

I can remember things best when > write instructions down too :) that way I can refer back to my notes and do the task