Voyages Indigenous Tourism Australia has celebrated the graduation of 26 young Indigenous Australians from the National Indigenous Training Academy (NITA) at a special ceremony held at Ayers Rock Resort last weekend.
The latest graduation marks more than 700 graduates since the program’s inception in 2011.
The event was attended by Minister for Trade and Tourism, Senator The Hon Don Farrell, Voyages board members and senior executives from Voyages and parent organisation, the Indigenous Land and Sea Corporation (ILSC), as well as trainees, family members and senior Anangu community members (Traditional Owners of Uluṟu).
The Minister congratulated the graduates for successfully completing the nationally recognised Certificate III in hospitality.
“The talent and skills of the graduates is a testament to the hard-working staff who prepare their students for a career in Australia’s thriving tourism and hospitality sector,” he said.
“My hope for each of the graduates is that this is the start of an exciting and fulfilling career in an industry that I began my working life in and remain passionate about.
“Australia is home to spectacular experiences, natural wonders, and the world’s oldest living culture – which we are proud to share with visitors from across the world.”
The hospitality traineeships take place at Ayers Rock Resort, Uluṟu Northern Territory and Mossman Gorge Cultural Centre, QLD, providing important pathways to employment for young Indigenous Australians.
Graduate Alkira Mippy of Perth says the course has taught her many valuable new skills.
“My favourite thing is how to make coffee, I love doing latte art,” she said.
“Working with the other trainees, you get along really well. I plan to stay here full time, and keep working in F&B.
“To any other young people thinking about NITA, come out and give it a go. It’s a great experience to learn new skills.”
Voyages CEO Matt Cameron-Smith praised graduates for their hard work and dedication.
“We’re so incredibly proud of each and every NITA graduate who has worked so hard for their qualifications,” he said.
“This ceremony marks one of our largest cohorts yet, with 26 graduates celebrating and a milestone 700 young Indigenous Australians who have now completed the program since its inception.
“NITA offers aspiring young people a unique opportunity to learn, earn and live onsite with comprehensive support on their hospitality or tourism journey. [It] delivers important and consistent pathways to employment for Indigenous Australians, with market-leading, nationally accredited qualifications setting them up for career success.”