Interviewing Nathan Basha – NSW Young Australian of the Year Finalist

Image courtesy of nathanbasha.com

Breaking disability stigma and stereotypes, Nathan Basha is a motivational advocate – a speaker for social change. As he likes to say, he might happen to have Down syndrome but, “That’s not who I am.” He is in fact a filmmaker, university student, actor and an assistant at both Nova 96.9 and Taste Creative. Nathan juggles all of that on top of working towards his goal of getting employment for 20 people with intellectual disability – a true wonder human who’s been awarded state finalist for NSW Young Australian of the Year. And he’s charitably taken time out of his busy life to answer a few questions for Bus Stop Films!

How did you feel when you found out you were a state finalist for the NSW Young Australian of the Year?

I was very surprised, humbled and honored.

You’ve helped change society, particularly the corporate sector’s view on people with disability by providing workshops and motivational speeches. What was the most difficult part of your journey to get to this point?

Trying to keep a balance of being able to present to as many people as possible but also being able to do my regular jobs at Nova 969 and Taste Creative.

Who are the most inspiring people in your life?

Right now it’s family and friends, and people around me in my community as well as my co-workers. For people no longer around, it would have to be Martin Luther King Jr. with his words that all men are created equal.

Can you tell us what happens during your workshops and speeches?

I share my life story so far and try to get everyone no matter who they are or where they have come from to see what their potential is. I use my speeches to change mindsets around people with disability, to think about employing a person with disability and I also use my humour and charisma along the way so we have a lot of fun!!

What are your next goals now that you’ve been awarded State Finalist for Young Australian of the Year (and also appearing on their Honor Roll!)?

I’m going to keep up my speaking roles, continue to get more jobs for people with disability and continue breaking down barriers– I’d also love to continue my passion and interest in filmmaking!

Is there any final piece of advice you would like to pass on to the readers?

Actions speak louder than words, I think it is time that we look beyond our limits and focus on our potential – can you imagine what we could achieve?

Lastly, a fun fact for the readers: what’s your favourite ice-cream flavor!?

Chocolate, Chocolate and more Chocolate!

Interested in knowing more? Check out Nathan’s site here.