Kini Naleve started at NVC on the 1st July 2023. Last month, she was one of the first five NVC staff who have successfully completed their Certificate III in Individual Support, funded by the Australian Government under the ACE program.
It is a very proud moment for these students and for NV College! ‘The Certificate III was really educational,’ said Kini. ‘I came into this carer role with no experience in aged care but I had some transferrable skills. In Fiji, I was a teacher of children with special needs. Since arriving at NVC, I’ve learnt so much, about correct manual handling and safety procedures. I’ve also found learning the theory and then the hands on training at Riverside to be very beneficial.’
She encourages everyone to get their Certificate III qualification. ‘I didn’t find the course difficult. You just need good time management. The qualification is evidence of having the skills needed to excel in our role. It’s also been a great opportunity to learn from senior staff and management.’
When asked how she managed to start a different career and qualification in a new country, she said she’s doing it for her family back home, whom she misses, as well as Fijian food … but she loves her residents at Riverside Gardens and the work is rewarding.
She also added, that settling into the new community has been made much easier, through their church in Macksville, which has kindly donated a seven-seater car, that enables Kini and friends to do their shopping and go see others easily. ‘Our church makes us feel comfortable and we can always talk to our pastors. I’m very grateful for this community.’