In a progressive move toward inclusivity in the caregiving sector, two men, Sanjay Narain Sharma, 47, and Alivereti Tagivetaua, 33, recently completed their training under the National Employment Centre programme. They are part of the 41 individuals who graduated with the Certificate III in Individual Support (Aging) at Calvary Temple.
This initiative is backed by the Australian Aged Care Expansion (ACE) programme, which is integrated into the Pacific Australia Labour and Mobility (PALM) scheme. The academic component of the training was overseen by Alphacrucis University College, an established educational provider recognized by the Fijian Higher Education Commission.
Mr. Sharma discovered his passion for caregiving during the time spent caring for his mother prior to her passing in 2022. He expressed the profound fulfillment that comes from helping others, stating, “There is nothing greater than the feeling of taking care of people.” His experience was further enriched by caring for other elderly family members.
On the other hand, Mr. Tagivetaua highlighted that passing the practical training portion was his biggest challenge. He reflected on his missed opportunities to care for his grandparents, stating this new role would allow him to express the love he was unable to provide while they were alive.
Gaayetri Prasad, an official from the Ministry of Employment, Productivity and Workplace Relations, congratulated the new graduates and emphasized their role as representatives of Fiji as they embark on their careers in Australia. She encouraged them to embody the values and pride of their country, setting a positive example for future participants in the programme.
These milestones reflect a positive shift in the perception of caregiving roles, showcasing that men, too, can thrive in this essential field. The graduates are scheduled to complete their programme by next June, and their success may inspire others to consider similar paths, thus fostering a diverse workforce in caregiving.
This story also highlights the importance of caregiving roles within society and the life-changing impacts they can have, both on caregivers and those they care for.
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