Peaked confidence through qualified tickets
LIKE most teenagers, Jada Read did not know what she wanted to do once she finished school – but a few months out, she found the beginning of what she believes is going to be her journey.
From being a lifeguard at Peak Hill Memorial Pool to participating in a pilot course, Tiddas in Trade, Jada found a new passion of working in the trade industry.
Tiddas in Trade is a four-week course aimed at assist Indigenous women in the trade industry to build their employment portfolio with the correct qualifications and connecting them to long-term employment.
Being only 17 and freshly out of school, Jada says she was initially reluctant to join the program.
“My sister sent me the application online, and we set up a group in Peak Hill and the other girls were too embarrassed to join the program,” she continues, saying that furthered her inspiration to apply.
She says with a smile that it was the best decision she’s made as it clarified what she wants to do in the future, and she has built strong relationships through the program.
“I met heaps of new people and am learning how to work in trade and monitor these machines.”
Once she completes the program, Jada will obtain the qualifications needed for employment and is eligible to help her dad on worksites.
“I’m excited to get out there and help him,” she says proudly.
Throughout Tiddas in Trade, Jada shares that she has learnt an array of practical skill and grown in personal development.
“I’ve learnt how to communicate better with others and am learning how to ask for help,” Jada mentions that before commencing the program she was too ashamed to ask for assistance when necessary.
“I was always so independent so coming here and working with these girls as a team really has shown me that if you do not know something – people are willing to help you.”
She says that, coming from the small town of Peak Hill, there is a lot of pleasure of being in a new environment with new faces.
“Everyone gets along really well, and they want to see you do your best and it really pushes you further,” Jada shares, saying the encouragement of the other girls participating in the program has motivated her to keep going.
“When you get on the machines and you think that you can’t do it, the girls and the team support you to do your best.”
She reflects on her nerves of first starting the program as she had not seen Aboriginal women in the industry before.
“I never thought I would have a career in the trade industry because I’d be the only girl but coming here and seeing 11 other Indigenous girls in the program has given me hope.”
Jada is looking forward to fulltime employment once she completes the course and receives her qualifications.