Nicholas’s Story

Nicholas had previously worked full-time for an Australian aviation company, but unfortunately was made redundant. Since then, he had tried to break into other industries like warehousing and transport, but his health issues prevented him from working sustainably.

The pandemic further weakened the job market which made it even more difficult for Nicholas to find sustainable employment. Initially, he planned on becoming a taxi driver to make ends meet. However, the advent of various ride-sharing apps disrupted the transportation industry and led to a significant decrease in the demand for taxis. Driving long hours for low profit margin was unsustainable and impacted Nicholas’ health heavily. Nicholas experienced an inability to see hope amidst a deteriorating quality of life. Nicholas had sought assistance from various employment service providers in the past, however, they suggested that he return to the same industries he had previously worked in, and this pattern only resulted in him becoming more exhausted and disheartened.

When Nicholas arrived at MTC’s Marrickville site, he was embittered by his experiences with employment services in general. Our team warmly welcomed him and through the comprehensive intake process and conversation, discovered he had a hobby as a musician. Receiving empathetic interest from his MTC Health and Wellbeing Coach, Nicholas started showing enthusiasm and engaged in our services. We spoke with Nicholas about the Pathway for Individual Support Course offered by MTC Australia’s Skills for Education & Employment (SEE) program and he was inspired to transition his career towards support work.

Nicholas received training from George Ling, one of MTC’s SEE trainers, who taught the participants how to become support workers. The training program lasted for eight weeks, during which time the participants were given essential materials as a pathway course. As part of gaining paid work experience, individuals can start working as support workers with light duties to determine if they would like to pursue a career in the industry.

Trainer George was a patient and supportive mentor to Nicholas throughout the course. He provided emotional support whenever Nicholas encountered obstacles and arranged for industry experts to come in and explain what it’s like to work as a support worker. Towards the end of the course, George helped Nicholas find employment opportunities by arranging interviews with different companies that were looking for support workers. As a result, Nicholas was offered jobs from three different companies.

Since Nicholas started his job, George has been regularly mentoring him and providing support. Transitioning careers as a mature worker can be difficult, but their genuine connection has created accountability for Nicholas. As a result, he is now gaining permanent clients and receiving extra shifts from new clients! Nicholas feels fulfilled and enriched by the work he provides, and it is helping him to heal from the hardships he has faced in the past.