It was Ruthanne’s older brother, Laki, who inspired her to enrol in AGA’s Transition to Work (TtW) program.

Laki, now an apprentice electrician, started his journey through AGA’s Flip My Ride program, which helped him feel a sense of belonging after he moved from New Zealand to Australia. “I have learnt new experiences on how to be a better person in society,” he said

Laki’s success showed Ruthanne that with the right support, she too could achieve anything. Their  older sister Ruby and younger brother, Sito, are also participating in the TtW program. Ruby is now working as a recruiter for Amazon while Sito studies at a community college, hoping to become a plumber.

The siblings’ journey has not been easy. Having lived through domestic violence at home, they sought a fresh start and new opportunities in Melbourne.

Initially hestitant, Ruthanne found that the support she received through the Transition to Work program helped her build the confidence to perservere with her search for stable employment.

“To think about where we’ve come from to where I am now, it’s just amazing. It’s mind blowing. I feel very priveleged,” Ruthanne said.

Transition to Work, delivered by AGA (part of the IntoWork Group) is designed to support young  people, aged 15 to 24 in finding employment. The program provides practical skills, ongoing career development and connections to education, training and community support services. Besides helping with resume writing, presentation and job seeking skills, the program empowers participants by identifying individual strengths, interests and a supported path to employment.

Both Ruthanne and Sito credit the connection, care and ongoing support from their personal consultants for giving them the belief to shape their own futures.

“We were able to speak openly and confide in them about certain things. After what we’ve been through, there’s a temptation to stay sheltered so it’s been important to have that sort of trusting relationship. To be comfortable with the team and just know that they are truly here to help, it makes you feel like there is hope,” Ruthanne explained.

Sito also found the personal connection he developed with consultants helped encourage him to move forward.

“It’s like they’re part of your family. You consider them as like your parents. Having that bonding and connection, it makes you feel comfortable. Like they’re coming along that journey with you,” he said.

After completing the course, Ruthanne was offered a position as a receptionist with AGA, becoming the first point of contact for other young people seeking a pathway forward. She believes that her experience of feeling discouraged and seeking support will help her earn the trust of new participants to the program. In time, as she develops her skills, Ruthanne hopes to one day be a consultant herself.

“I was literally in their shoes and now I’m here and I’m offering help on the other side. It’s really cool.  I think that could be a helpful story to hear. That’s what I’m hoping. That participants hear my story and that gives them some hope that things can turn around.”