Exposing career options at Yuendumu Careers Expo

The community of Yuendumu in the Northern Territory held a careers expo in various locations throughout the community on 8 December 2016.

More than 300 people attended the one-day event – a great turn out from the Yuendumu community of about 700 people.

The expo included 22 stalls featuring career advice from groups such as the Batchelor Institute of Indigenous Tertiary Education, the Department of Health, Newmont Mines, and the Northern Territory Police.

A visitor to the expo could learn about careers as a PAW (Pintubi Anmatjere Warlpiri) Radio DJ, a Central Land Council Ranger, or about working in the police force, at Yuendumu school and in the construction industry.

There was advice on the National Indigenous Cadetship Program, the Graduate Development Program and careers in caring with STEPS Group Australia.

The expo attracted those looking for a career change as well as those who are happy in their work including Cynthia Wheeler, a teacher at Yuendumu School for two years, and who currently teaches the middle class year.

“I’ve been enjoying my working with the kids,” Cynthia said.

“Even kids not in my class, just all around school, even outside of school, I love working with the kids.”

Also attending was Shanelle Collins, a Yuendumu local currently doing a short course on photography with the Batchelor Institute. Eventually she hopes to study social work so she can help people.

The expo wasn’t just directed at the youth but was attended by all age groups. Like all good employment fairs it was a reminder that it’s never too late to change your career path or to update your skills.

Madeline Dixon, who grew up in Yuendumu, left the community to attend boarding school. Upon returning, she gained her teaching qualifications and taught in the community.

“I also worked as a Ranger with the Yuendumu Warlpiri Rangers as a senior ranger and also, after finishing that job, I worked as a Community Safety Patroller for Night Patrol and was a team leader,” Madeline said.

“Then I decided to become a liaison officer. I like working with the community and also making sure kids are safe.”

Mother and daughter Dowreen Sundarjit and Sonia Deo from Fiji moved to Yuendumu three years ago where Dowreen teaches at the school. Both love the community and enjoy a quiet life after living in Sydney.

“I like the police who helped me and Mum when we were settling into community life,” Sonia said.

“I want to be a police officer because I like to help people.”

The expo was such a success that planning for next year’s event has already begun.

The elders of Yuendumu feel it is important to celebrate all education accomplishments. Following the expo, 500 people attended the Yuendumu Graduation Ceremony to recognise the importance of lifelong learning.

As well as acknowledging formal education achievements, people who have completed non-accredited courses or are excelling in local employment were also celebrated.