What’s Your Pathway? Desiree’s Story
Study was a case of stepping stones for Desiree, who returned to the classroom as a mature-aged student.
“I left school early but returned as an adult to complete the Victorian Certificate of Applied Learning (VCAL),” Desiree said. “It was important for me to prove to myself and my family that I could do it. Afterwards, I wasn't really sure what to do next. I was ready for a career, but I needed a stepping stone.”
As it turned out, the Launchpad Desiree needed was just around the corner.
“I was on the Work for the Dole program and the opportunity came up to do an Introduction to Community Services program at Sale Neighbourhood House,” she said.
“I was really interested in this type of work, but I wasn’t sure if I could commit to a whole course. This was the perfect way to see if I was ready for study.”
For Desiree, the connection with Learn Local opened many doors.
"I am now completing a Certificate IV in Community Studies,” she said. “I would never have gotten here without the confidence I gained through Learn Local. I believe it will help me get to where I want to be.”
In a full circle moment, Desiree has given back to the Learn Local that changed her life.
“I loved the Neighbourhood House so much that I now volunteer there,” she said. “Through that connection, I had the opportunity to be the Acting Manager of Wurruk Neighbourhood House – an experience that I valued so much and will never forget.
That time helped me realise that one day, I'd love to manage a Community House full time and help other people like me to find their way to a life they love. I want to create a safe, positive environment for everyone and see them achieve what they set out to.”
Like many participants involved in a Learn Local work-readiness program, Desiree also had the opportunity to connect with the Skills and Jobs Centre, a government-funded initiative that provides careers and training advice to help people on their jobs pathway.
“The Skills and Jobs Centre provided career advice and helped me understand potential job pathways,” Desiree said. “They connected me to a Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA) course, which will help me find work while I continue to study.
“For anyone who thinks that they can’t do something that they want to do, Learn Local is the perfect place to turn to as a stepping stone.”