31 January 2025
“Coming to yourtown made a huge difference to me.”
At first, Caleb was struggling to find employment. He tried working in a supermarket and had also tried scaffolding, but neither felt right. He wanted something more fulfilling.
Caleb joined us as a trainee, as part of our Skilling Queenslanders for Work (SQW) program. As soon as Caleb picked up a power tool for the first time, he knew he had found his passion. During his time as a trainee, Caleb built stairs, bell towers, handrails, and walls at the Beenleigh Historical Village.
Helping young people find their passion
Caleb’s traineeship offered him a hands-on introduction to construction that he otherwise wouldn’t have had. He completed his certificate through the Skilling Queenslanders for Work program and then continued to work with yourtown’s Social Enterprises.
While working with Social Enterprises, Caleb discovered his love for working in the natural environment and was able to move on to a landscaping apprenticeship. When the opportunity arose to contribute to the landscaping needs of yourtown’s Prize Homes on the Gold Coast, he jumped at the chance!
Caleb’s favourite project so far has been working on the Miami Prize Home, where he was able to contribute his input into the beautifully designed paths and plants. And just this year, Caleb had the opportunity to work on the 2024 Christmas Prize Home in Tallebudgera Valley.
"Every job is different and requires all different skills. You’re always on your toes,” says Caleb.
In 2023/24 we supported over 5000 young people like Caleb to get ready for work through yourtown's employment programs.
Helping others grow
Caleb’s hard work and dedication were most recently recognised when he was offered the first-ever Leading Hand position within our Social Enterprises! At 22, he now has more responsibility as a member of the staff.
This new role sees Caleb working independently or assisting others, while guiding and helping future trainees. His goal is to become a trainer and inspire others who are struggling to find work and build their confidence.
It’s not just personal growth, though. As Caleb says, “I want to help others like me and show that there are opportunities to grow.”
You help turn young peoples’ lives around
Buying tickets in our Prize Home Draws helps young people like Caleb learn new skills to bring to the workforce. A $15 ticket could not only change your life, but the life of a young person as well.
