A Muswellbrook mum has taken an unexpected route towards the career she has always wanted, refusing to let a series of setbacks put her plans on hold.
When Matilda joined Mai-Wel’s Parent Pathways program, she already had a clear idea of where she wanted to go.
What she needed was a way to get there.
“I just knew I had to make it work,” Matilda said.
“The program gave me the support and the confidence to take that step myself.”
More than 12 months later, Matilda is closer to her goal and has built up a range of new skills along the way.
Her journey has not been without challenges, with limited training options in the region, an unexpected medical emergency and difficulties finding a suitable work placement.
Rather than give up, Matilda started looking for opportunities herself.
That determination eventually led her to a local horse stud, where she secured a work placement and continued building experience in the industry she hopes to work in.
She has since enrolled in a Certificate III in Horse Breeding as she works towards turning her passion for horses into a career.
Matilda has also completed qualifications in First Aid, CPR, RSA, RCG and Creative Writing.
She has updated her resume for the first time and said the experience has given her greater confidence to take on new opportunities.
Matilda said her communication skills had also improved, while she had become more socially engaged and open to meeting new people.
Her progress is one example of how Mai-Wel’s Parent Pathways program is supporting parents and carers across the Hunter as they work towards employment.
The Australian Government initiative provides personalised mentoring, training support and practical assistance to help participants overcome barriers and build skills.
For Matilda, having that support meant she could keep moving forward when her original plans did not work out.
Racheal Blaxell, Senior Manager of Employment Programs at Mai-Wel, said Matilda’s determination had been a key part of her progress.
“Matilda’s determination has been incredible to witness,” she said.
“She has faced real challenges and found a way through every single one.”
Matilda is now continuing her training, with further work placement opportunities and employment among her goals.
She is also encouraging other parents to consider the Parent Pathways program after seeing the impact it has had on her own journey.
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