Congratulations to Global Skills Mt Druitt job seeker Matthew Slee who has secured a chef apprenticeship with thanks to the National Indigenous Culinary Institute (NICI).

When the NICI promoted opportunities to employment service providers in our region, Global Skills Employment Consultant Chyanne Kaczorowski knew Matthew, 37, would be a great fit.

Matthew has a real interest in cooking, stemming from childhood. He explains, “I’ve always liked cooking. I remember when I was a child I’d stand on a little plastic chair and help my parents cook. I learnt to cook at an early age and my interest continued as I grew. When I left school, my Dad secured a butcher apprenticeship for me and while I worked 60-70 hours a week as a butcher, my interest in cooking remained. Then, a few years ago, I realised that I was exhausted from maintaining such a heavy workload over many years. I was stressed, I had no time with my partner and children, I had to take a break.

“As my break extended I knew I didn’t want to return to butchery. I was looking for a career change. Early this year, Chyanne contacted me about the opportunity with NICI and I knew it was perfect for me. My partner and I now have five children and another on the way and I was excited by what this opportunity could offer me and my family.”

On completion of the NICI pre-apprenticeship program, including TAFE modules and work experience, Matthew was offered an apprenticeship at The Marsden Brewhouse. He began work on 18 February and is grateful for the support he receives, saying, “Global Skills have covered the cost of travel to and from TAFE and work where needed. They have also offered support for work clothes and aprons. The NICI are really supportive too. I’m grateful for this opportunity and I’m really loving my job. I’m working evening shifts and, as I’m more of a night person, it works well for me. I finish at about 11pm, so I can still take my kids to school in the morning. I have mornings free and I’m rostered off on Monday and Tuesday. I have enough time with the kids and financially, it’s a lot easier. I’m so happy that you guys helped me get this job.”

Congratulations on your apprenticeship Matthew. We look forward to following your journey.