Community
1 July, 2024
Promising careers for trio
THREE young Indigenous students have graduated from Voyage’s National Indigenous Training Academy program.
Providing young Indigenous Australians and Torres Strait Islanders the opportunity to live, learn and earn in a real work environment, the academy works to equip them with market-leading hospitality and tourism qualifications at their sites in Voyages’ Mossman Gorge, and Ayers Rock Resort.
Among the highest in the industry, Mossman Gorge’s Indigenous employment figures are now at over 60 per cent, with many NITA graduates among its staff.
Having already secured jobs in Queensland tourism businesses, graduates have received a certificate III in hospitality, with joba offers from various work placements, including Aaliyah Nandy at the Mossman Gorge Cultural Centre, Yavaleagh Paii at Ramada Resort, and Lindsay Callope at Niramya Villas and Spa, Port Douglas.
Voyages Indigenous Tourism Australia chef executive officer Matt Cameron-Smith said the graduates had bright futures ahead of them in the tourism industry.
“This year, we will celebrate our 700th NITA graduate,” he said. (This is) a testament to the strong demand for the program from trainees, employers and the wider industry – with all groups reaping the benefits of shared Indigenous culture, knowledge and skills.”
Douglas Shire Mayor Lisa Scomazzon congratulated the graduates on their achievements.
“Over the years, the program has provided a springboard for young Indigenous people to find jobs in tourism and hospitality,” she said.
“I am sure this will also be the case for the latest round of graduates.”
