Iefata’s motivation brings new skills and opportunities

After finishing a period of seasonal work, Iefata found himself searching for employment once again. 

With English as his second language, he faced communication barriers that made his job search challenging. 

Despite these obstacles, Iefata remained motivated to find work as soon as possible.

He reached out to the APM team in Devonport, located on Tasmania’s central north coast. 

Iefata explained to his APM Employment Consultant, Tara, that he enjoyed keeping his mind busy and meeting new people. 

Since finishing his previous role, he found that not having a reason to get out of the house was affecting his mental health.

Through Disability Employment Services (DES), Tara began speaking to suitable employers in the area. 

Tara and her teammates join in to devise marketing strategies and employment opportunities including Employer Account Manager Rebecca.

Drawing on Iefata’s  previous experience working in abattoirs, Rebecca found a local employer who needed a new team member to fillet fish at the back of the store. 

She set up a meeting with the seafood company Strait off the Boat. 

And although Iefata felt nervous, having never filleted fish before, he was eager to forge ahead with the interview and embrace any new experience.

After meeting the employer, Iefata was offered the role and invited to start with them the following week. 

Looking forward to the new challenge, Iefata prepared for the role and with APM’s support he received suitable workwear, footwear, a filleting glove, and fuel cards.

In his new role, Iefata not only kept the back of the store clean and organised but also began interacting with customers at the front of the store — something he never thought he would be able to do. 

After six months in the role Iefata shared his gratitude with the APM Devonport team and told them how he was continuing to build on his filleting and battering skills every day.

“Thank you so much,” Iefata said. “I really enjoy having a job to go to. I feel I don’t ever want to leave there.”

Iefata’s journey highlights the crucial role of the DES program in supporting people from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds. 

By providing tailored assistance and fostering a supportive environment, APM helps participants overcome
barriers and achieve their employment goals. 

Iefata’s success is a shining example of what can be achieved with determination and the right support.