Work placement gives Sadaf a head start 

Sadaf had only been in Australia for two months before she started at Navitas Skilled Futures (NSF) in Canberra. She admits that at times, she found studying in her new country difficult, but with encouragement from her teachers, she now has a job she loves and big plans for her future. 

Sadaf has learned several languages over her life. Born in Afghanistan, when she was only four years old, her family sought safety and opportunities, moving to India for the next 14 years. In India she learned Hindi, Sanskrit and English, so when the family finally settled in Canberra, her first move was to look for a job.

While she tried hard to find employment, Sadaf was initially unsuccessful and realised she needed support. When her Red Cross case manager suggested enrolling in the Adult Migrant English Program (AMEP) at Navitas Skilled Futures (NSF), she applied straight away.  Sadaf’s English improved, and she gained more confidence. Feeling more prepared and ready for the next step, Sadaf decided it was time to work towards her career goals. She then enrolled in the Pathways to Work course, which is part of the AMEP. The AMEP is funded by the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs.

After a few weeks of studying, Sadaf’s English has improved, and she became more confident. Feeling ready and prepared, Sadaf believed that this was the time for her to pursue her dream in her career.

At NSF, her teachers encouraged her to persist, even when she found the work hard. “The teachers always supported me,” said Sadaf. “They said ‘yes you can do this’.” As well as building her confidence in speaking English, the Pathways to Work course also gave Sadaf a wonderful opportunity for work placement at the department store Myer.

She learned new skills relevant to working in a large retail environment including greeting and speaking to customers. During her work placement with Myer, Sadaf worked across a range of departments, including her favourite – kids wear. She happily recalls helping a mother find the correct size dress for her baby. “When I looked at the baby to see how big she was, she was smiling at me, she was so cute,” said Sadaf who loves all children. 

From work-placement to a paid job 

It wasn’t long before managers at the store noticed Sadaf’s great customer service skills and encouraged her to apply for a casual position. Her trainers at NSF happily helped with the online application. Because she had done the work placement and they knew her, Myer didn’t need to interview her and quickly offered her the role. 

Now working back in kids wear, as well as homeware departments, Sadaf has also returned to NSF to improve her English skills. 

Her next step is to become a dental assistant, a dream she has had since childhood. “I want to help people, so when they smile they can feel more confident,” she said.  

Feeling at home in Canberra 

In the meantime, she loves living in Canberra, spending time with her fellow students, and enjoying the beautiful parks and picnic spots around the city. She’s also learning to drive, and can’t wait to reach the 100 hours of practice she needs before she can attempt the driving test. 

She intends to stay living in Canberra. “I have had a very good experience,” she said about her time at NSF and in Australia. “People are very kind and respect every culture here.” 

For more information about courses that can give you new job skills as well as improve your English call Navitas Skilled Futures on 1300 798 111.