Hard work puts Nathan front and centre

  • COVID restrictions guided Nathan's career in a whole new direction.
  • The Self Employment Assistance program helped him embrace his skills and become a successful, professional host

When you’re looking for someone to host your special event, it’s got to be someone special.

They must be trustworthy, well-prepared, and entertaining to make the experience memorable.

If you’re looking for a multi award-winning Master of Ceremonies (MC), Nathan Cassar might be the person you need.

Based in Sydney, Nathan runs his own business, specialising in delivering award-winning, high energy live event performances.

As a former entertainment host for Princess Cruises for several years, he has performed for thousands of happy guests spanning 40+ nationalities across the globe.

Unfortunately, due to changes in the travel and cruise industry due to COVID-19, he lost his job.

Nathan approached APM to start his business with support from the New Enterprise Incentive Scheme (NEIS) in November 2021.

Nathan began his 12-month coaching agreement in Feb 2022 and was a few months into it when Self-Employment Assistance replaced the NEIS program on 1 July 2022.

Self-Employment Assistance by APM Employment Services helps people set up, develop, and grow their own small business.

The program includes support for those who have an existing micro-business or wish to start their own micro-enterprise.

Participants receive 12 months of professional mentorship and support to navigate their first year of business and putting together a business plan.

Despite difficulties in the event industry due to COVID restrictions, Nathan started his business as a Master of Ceremonies successfully.

In his first couple of years of operation, Nathan has managed to make his mark on the industry through sheer hard work, dedication, and enthusiasm.

Nathan far exceeded his financial forecasts throughout the program.

He soon set his sights on some bigger and better goals for the near future, with a focus on major corporate events and festivals.

In addition, he has won an impressive number of awards and industry recognitions.

Including:

  • 2nd Best Wedding MC - Australian Wedding Awards (National) 2022
  • Winner - Best Wedding MC - Wedding Industry Awards (Western Sydney) 2022
  • 3rd Place - ABIA Wedding Awards - Master of Ceremonies (NSW) 2022
  • Winner - Most Entertaining MC (NSW) - Lux-Life Global Excellence Awards 2022

Nathan hosted 86 live events in 2022, including 50 weddings and several corporate events.

He has presented his own MC masterclasses and was invited to consult for the re-launch of a live experience on the Coral Princess cruise ship.

In addition, Nathan has debuted a professional show reel and website which showcase his main service offerings for prospective clients.

His clients have left him a range of happy and delighted reviews praising his communication, organisation, professionalism – and ability to get everyone up on the dance floor.

Get the best start in business

Access professional mentorship, accredited training through the Self-Employment Assistance program.

As part of Workforce Australia, Self-Employment Assistance provides more support to more people, more businesses in even more places across Australia.

Self-Employment Assistance can help you:

  • Workshop a business idea
  • Create a business plan and develop your business skills
  • Provide you with accredited training in small business*
  • Connect you with business coaching from experienced and local experts in a range of industries
  • Self-Employment Assistance participant in their plant business

Existing small business owners can also use Self-Employment Assistance to develop their business plan, access accredited training, undertake a business health check and access business advice sessions.

To find out more, visit apm.net.au/sea or contact the SEA team at selfemployment@apm.net.au or on 1300 006 347.