WHAT’S MY STORY?

Happy to share! Would you like to read or watch?

Hi, I’m Tom! But you may know me as 10 Cent Tom

I have an intellectual impairment and was diagnosed with severe scoliosis at the age of 15. Thanks to that scoliosis I had to have surgery, which is when I got my spine upgraded with two titanium rods. And if you’ve met me, you’ll know without a doubt that it has only made me stronger!

A few years ago, I started collecting 10c recyclables from around my neighbourhood.

In the beginning, I loved being able to get to know my neighbours and make new friends with awesome people, all while earning a bit of pocket money.

I quickly discovered my passion for recycling, enjoying the challenge and adventure of helping the environment while connecting with my community.

Then, around 2020, COVID happened.

"My mama always said, 'Life was like a box of chocolates. You never know what you're gonna get.'"

- Forrest Gump

Like a lot of Australians, I experienced some setbacks due to COVID, including the loss of a traineeship I’d been working really hard to get.

On the flipside, this gave me more time to not only pursue my passion - but also turn it into a business.

"My Mama always said you've got to put the past behind you before you can move on."

- Forrest Gump

Now? Well, I’ve gone from making pocket money to starting my own nonprofit: 10 Cent Tom Limited

With the help of my family, and my amazing community of supporters and container collectors, I’m working towards having my own 10 Cent Tom depot that employs other people like me - one 10c container at a time!

Let’s do it together!

I AM

A SON

I’m thankful for my parents, they have always been so incredibly supportive!

For example my mum, Carolyn, has been at my side from the very beginning and does everything she can to help me in achieving my purpose.