From tourism admin to work that gives back

Sarah Filson has form for big moves. Fifteen years ago it was the United States to Mossman; since then, veterinary clinics, then tourism. "I wanted to try something different and even though I didn't have the relevant experience, I started in an admin role in tourism," she says.

Admin paid the bills, but that was all. "I knew I needed something I could really put my energy into, something that was fulfilling."

She enrolled in the Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing and Home and Community) in November 2019, and found the course took the work as seriously as she wanted to. "This type of care needs qualified workers. You need to know what you're doing when you're working with people who have diabetes or have suffered from a stroke."

"The course introduced me to likeminded people who were determined to provide the best care for patients."

When COVID pushed learning remote, Sarah kept going, straight through a second qualification: the Certificate IV in Disability. Both are done now, and her mornings start at 9am in clients' homes, delivering personal care.

"I feel the qualification has also provided me with an advantage in terms of employability. I've definitely made the right move. I'm really happy having such a rewarding job where I feel like I'm giving back. I love it."

The current pathway: CHC33021 Certificate III in Individual Support and CHC43121 Certificate IV in Disability Support. Both are subsidised for eligible Queenslanders under Career Start and Career Boost. Call 07 4098 1228.