I came to Australia from Indonesia in 2013 after I got married to my husband. In 2015, I received the devastating news that my father has shown symptoms of dementia. In Indonesia the people are not familiar with dementia and how to deal with it. 

As a mum with a toddler, I was struggling to find a job with my international degree to support my family through this crisis.  
I had a very small circle within the community and limited access to networking due to a lack of confidence in communicating. I was excellent in English, but Australian English is completely different in the way the conversation goes. I experienced a culture shock and so I lacked confidence even though I was equipped with a good international education. 

In 2016 after doing research, sourcing information, sharing ideas and seeking feedback from friends, I decided to enrol with VICSEG in to the Certificate III in Individual Support course.

After my placement I immediately received an offer as a personal care assistant in a Special Residential Service, I even became the person in charge and liaised with the placement officer to arrange work placements for VICSEG students. 

Then soon after, I received offers to teach the Individual Support Course. I had been recommended by the teachers there after they saw my quality of work.

I turned down the offers and decided to use my skills and knowledge to gain experience first! Aged care is a hands on industry, experience is key to become successful in this sector, including teaching. 

After 3 years working in aged care, I gained more and more confidence!  I identified an area of improvement in providing support service to older people or people with disabilities. I strongly believed I can help and contribute making small changes by educating people who are going into the industry.  
 

There are stigmas about working in aged care, it is not a job for young people, young people who work in the industry are not reliable or capable. Lots of support workers are lacking in communication skills, especially written communication methods such as email, progress notes, etc. More consumers need service and if people are being trained correctly, a lot of potential support workers can make a difference!

I finally had the courage to develop new skills by completing a Training and Assessors course, and in June 2020 I started to teach Certificate III in Individual Support in a private RTO, then I got a fixed term contract in a TAFE.  

I am so happy that I had the opportunity and able to make it happen! I am able to do what I love: support working and teaching others how to do the best practice.  
 
VICSEG will always be part of my success story. The teachers, the experience, the good values of all people I have met through VICSEG, even after. For example, I remembered this kind trainer that always encouraged, supported and assisted me through my course. This has always guide me to become a better teacher each day. Without the good feedback about my work, I would not be where I am now.  
 
Thank you so much VICSEG. I am always proud to be one of your successful graduates.