NDIS helps Stanley enjoy life on his quest to be famous

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With over 108,000 TikTok followers and his own YouTube channel, Coomera NDIS participant, Stanley Rosenberg is using what many refer to as “his infectious charisma” to work towards becoming the next Guy Sebastian.

The 35-year-old, who has Down syndrome, is like a magnet when he’s out and about in his community, referring to himself, and very much known in his area, as ‘The famous Stanley’.

Stanley singing into a hand-held microphone wearing a smart black hat.

He loves to busk, so he’s not shy to place his hat upside down on the ground, as he sings and dances to all his favourite chart-topping hits, while a flow of coins keep rolling in.

“With singing, I want to be people’s favourite. You know, like a super star. I love to entertain people. I dance, sing and perform. It’s just part of my life. It makes me really, really happy,” he said.

Stanley has used his NDIS funding to engage three disability providers, Aruma, Good Vibes and Centacare, so he can be more involved his community and live independently. 

Alyson, one of Stanley’s support workers, said he’s a much loved participant at Aruma, and already quite famous, with staff assisting him with his goals every step of the way.

“Stanley’s a real character. He has an infectious energy; he’s full of zest and passion, and he really wants to be famous, just like Guy Sebastian,” she said smiling.

“We’ve got him learning video, editing and production skills; learning how to use a green screen and interviewing participants.”

Stanley’s dad, Stan, said he didn’t want “a wallflower of a son”, he wanted a son who was outgoing, forthright and part of the world.

Reflecting, Stan said he remembered how Stanley’s quest for stardom came about.

“We were at a market, and I bought him a little piano organ,” he said.

“Stanley sat on a bench to play it while I continued to walk around. When I got back, there he was playing his piano organ. His hat was upside down next to him, full of money, and someone had even bought him a hot dog! He was around 10, so that’s how it all started!”

Stan said Centacare is also helping Stanley to achieve his NDIS goals.

“Centacare run an inclusive theatre group, called Running Duck. It’s based at HOTA (Home of the Arts) and Stanley is a part of that, and he just loves it,” he said.

Stanley has also engaged Good Vibes, who assist him with Supported Independent Living (SIL) so he can live independently, increase his general health and wellbeing and enjoy safe and supported community participation.

His main support worker, Duane, said Stanley is now living independently in a house, with two mates, and he works as part of a team who provide the trio 24/7 support.

“I also take Stanley swimming in the warmer months and to the gym once a week. We do a lot of core work, and I motivate him and assist him to use the equipment,” he said.

“Stanley loves it, and with so much charisma everyone greets him so he’s made heaps of friends.

“Even yesterday, we went to the barber shop, in Coomera Westfield. When Stanley was done, he got up and danced. The whole shop just erupted with excitement.

“Everyone was clapping and cheering as Stanley danced to a Michael Jackson song. It’s like that wherever he goes. I’m not an extrovert, but you have to come out of your shell when you’re with someone like ‘The famous Stanley’,” he said with a laugh.