By Molly Stapleton

KGI REAL Program alumni have returned home after an action-packed week at the National Centre of Indigenous Excellence (NCIE) in Redfern, New South Wales.

The group of 18 alumni, aged 16-18 years were thrilled to be invited to the NCIE to participate in the Career Fit program.

Delivered in partnership with the National Aboriginal Sporting Chance Academy (NASCA), Career Fit focuses on pathways of arts and culture, health and wellness, learning and innovation, and sports and recreation.

From learning to surf at Bondi Beach to exploring future pathways at career expos and universities, the week was full of new and exciting opportunities for the group.

For 18-year-old Lillian Arnold-Rendell, who is in her final weeks of year 12, the program provided her with a strong sense of direction as she takes the next step towards her future.

“I think the University experience was definitely the best – getting to know what’s out there and what’s available to us,” said Miss Arnold-Rendell.

“It’s really nice to know that there’s support out there.

the group participate in a surfing lesson in Sydney
the group participate in a surfing lesson in Sydney

“I’ve been really stressed coming to the end of year 12, now I have a clearer picture of what I want to do and where I want to go.”

Miss Arnold-Rendell said the highlight of the camp was, “experiencing new things and meeting new people.”

Fellow participants, Stacey Trowell and Adam Moate said the program helped them build aspirations for the future whilst strengthening relationships with other young Indigenous people.

“I really liked the career expo at the NCIE,” Miss Trowell said.

“We had a visit from some paramedics, which has always been something I have wanted to do in the future, so I really benefitted from that.”

“The best thing was getting to know everyone better whilst learning more about our culture,” Mr Moate said.

“We left with some great skills for the future.”

The KGI would like to thank the NCIE and NASCA for sharing their facilities and deadly programs and look forward to forming to an ongoing partnership.

The REAL Program is supported by the Victorian Electoral Commission.

The participants spent time at the National Centre of Indigenous Excellence throughout the program
The participants spent time at the National Centre of Indigenous Excellence throughout the program