Students from five local high schools came together in Orange recently for VERTO’s annual First Nations Career Connections Day, an event focused on career exploration, education pathways and future opportunities.
Held at the Orange Ex-Services Club, the event gave students the opportunity to speak directly with people from a diverse range of industries, ask questions and consider where their interests and aspirations could take them.
With representatives from employment, education, training, health, emergency services, defence, local government and other sectors all in one place, students could visit stalls, have face-to-face conversations and discover careers, courses and services they may not have previously considered.
Sharing stories and experiences
An important part of the day was hearing from guest speakers Trent French and Jamie Newman, who generously shared their stories, insights and advice with students. The Indigenous Police Recruitment Our Way Delivery (IPROWD) presentation was also a highlight, along with an exclusive preview of the graduates video.
Hearing directly from people with different backgrounds and perspectives gave students another view of the choices available after school and encouraged them to think about their own goals and aspirations.
VERTO was also pleased to welcome a diverse group of employers, training providers and community organisations, including Bamara, Birrang Enterprise Development Company, Orange City Council, TAFE NSW, ADF Careers, Newmont Australia, Fire and Rescue NSW, Orange Aboriginal Medical Service (OAMS), Skillset, Hort Enterprises, IPROWD, UGL, OCC Services, University of New England (AU) and Western NSW Local Health District.
VERTO Quality and Risk Manager Pamela Hunter said this year’s event had built on the success of the inaugural Career Connections Day.
“It was fantastic to see even more employers, training providers and community organisations involved this year, giving students greater exposure to the many pathways available to them,” said Pamela.
“Seeing students asking questions and having conversations throughout the day really showed just how valuable these opportunities are for First Nations young people.”
Connecting culture, careers and community
Beyond introducing students to different career choices, the First Nations Career Connections Day also brings young people, schools, industry and the wider community together.
These connections can help strengthen local relationships that continue to support young people across Orange and the wider Central West.
We would like to sincerely thank all the guest speakers, stallholders, participating schools and community organisations who gave their time, knowledge and experience to make this year’s event possible.
VERTO looks forward to continuing these important conversations and creating more opportunities for First Nations young people to connect with industry and explore education, training and employment pathways.
