When Paul joined the Workforce Australia program at APM Earlville, he had been out of work for over a year and was managing significant mental and physical health challenges.
He showed up anyway, and that made all the difference.
Paul serves up a new start through Workforce Australia and APM
Working with APM Employment Consultant Kamala, Paul updated his resume and enrolled in a food safety course through genU Training.
He also completed the Time2Learn program, successfully passing his PrepL test, a real achievement for someone navigating barriers around literacy and digital skills.
Driving lessons were arranged to support his independence, and when Paul secured a baker's assistant role, Kamala helped him get equipped with the protective gear he needed to start work.
That role ended for medical reasons, but Paul didn't stop.
He kept going, working with APM Business Manager Ula, who connected him with counselling support through Konekt to rebuild motivation and sharpen his job search strategies.
He resumed driving lessons, completed his Responsible Service of Alcohol certification, and enrolled in a Certificate IV in Commercial Cookery through Frontier Education.
A passion for food preparation, sparked during his earlier work experience, was turning into something real.
When Paul joined the Work for the Dole program he was referred to a voluntary role with Cairns Meals on Wheels.
He thrived.
His reliability and work ethic were noticed, and an offer of paid employment as a kitchenhand followed.
APM supported the transition with weekly check-ins during his first four weeks and helped Paul purchase his own kitchen knives so he could bring his full skills to the role.
More than a year on, Paul is employed, financially independent, and preparing meals every day for people in his community who need them most.
He has built strong relationships with his colleagues and continues to grow in a role that fits who he is.
If you are ready to take your next step, APM is ready to walk it with you.
Visit our job seekers website to find out more, or share Paul's story with someone who needs to hear it today.
