Supporting Indigenous employment pathways
Real Futures delivers the Indigenous Skills and Employment Program, known as ISEP- an Australian Government initiative that supports Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to build skills, access training and move into meaningful employment. The program focuses on creating practical pathways into work by recognising each person’s strengths, experience, goals and connection to community.
For many job seekers, changing industries can feel like starting again. But career change often involves transferring existing skills into a new setting. Transferable skills are abilities developed through previous work, education, community involvement or life experience that can be valuable across many roles and industries. These can include communication, leadership, problem solving, cultural knowledge, organisation and the ability to support others.
When Petula connected with our team, she was ready for a new chapter.
Recognising Petula’s experience and strengths
After many years working in the mining industry in South Hedland, including roles in coordination, operations and support, Petula was seeking a local employment opportunity that would allow her to use her strengths in a new way.
Petula also brought valuable experience from earlier roles in education and community support, along with formal qualifications in education. Her background showed strong communication skills, leadership, cultural knowledge and a genuine commitment to helping others.
Through our delivery of ISEP, we worked alongside Petula to explore suitable employment pathways, prepare for interviews and build confidence as she considered a career change.
Finding the right pathway
Our team recognised Petula’s genuine talent for connecting with people and her heart for helping others succeed. With this insight, we were able to guide Petula toward a role that would allow her to use these natural strengths in a meaningful and practical way.
Like many people stepping into a new industry, Petula was initially unsure whether she had the right experience. But she was open, motivated and eager to learn.
Rather than focusing only on previous job titles, we helped Petula recognise the value of her transferable skills. Her experience in mining, education and community support had equipped her with qualities that employers look for: professionalism, adaptability, communication, reliability and care for others.
Preparing for employment with practical support
Changing careers takes confidence, preparation and the right support. Our team worked with Petula to help her feel ready for interviews, understand the opportunity ahead and prepare for the transition into employment.
We supported Petula with:
- Exploring local employment opportunities
- Understanding employer expectations
- Interview preparation and practice questions
- Information to help her feel confident before interview
- Practical work-ready support, including clothing and footwear
- Ongoing check-ins as she transitioned into employment
This personalised support helped Petula approach the next step with greater confidence and clarity.
Starting employment
Petula successfully commenced employment in March 2026 and has completed her initial workplace training.
The feedback has been incredibly positive. Petula has been recognised for her calm and pleasant nature, her professionalism and the way she has quickly become a valued part of her new team.
Her success shows the importance of matching people with opportunities that reflect who they are, what they value and the strengths they already bring.
Building long-term career pathways
Real Futures’ delivery of ISEP supports Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to access meaningful employment, recognise their transferable skills and build long-term career pathways.
With the right guidance, practical preparation and ongoing support, a career change can become an opportunity to grow, contribute and thrive.
We look forward to continuing to support Petula with future career development opportunities as she grows in her new workplace.
