While caregiving is often associated with women, two men recently demonstrated that this vital profession is open to all genders. Sanjay Narain Sharma, 47, and Alivereti Tagivetaua, 33, were among 41 individuals who completed their training under the National Employment Centre programme, graduating with their Certificate III in Individual Support (Aging) at a ceremony held at Calvary Temple last Friday.
This initiative is funded by the Australian Aged Care Expansion (ACE) programme, which is part of the Pacific Australia Labour and Mobility (PALM) scheme. The theoretical portion of the training was provided by Alphacrucis University College, a recognized Australian education provider accredited by the Fijian Higher Education Commission (FHEC).
Mr. Sharma found his calling in caregiving through personal experiences, as he cared for his mother until her passing in 2022. He expressed the profound fulfillment that comes from caring for others, particularly drawing on the skills he developed while supporting aging family members. “I gained the experience from taking care of my other family members who are old; I found passion when I took care of my own mother before she passed away two years back,” Mr. Sharma shared.
Mr. Tagivetaua faced challenges in mastering practical training, the final stage of the programme, admitting that he did not have the opportunity to care for his grandparents due to their early passing. He sees this training as a chance to honor them by providing the care he was unable to give. “This will be a good chance for me to show people the love I couldn’t give my grandparents,” he said.
Gaayetri Prasad, manager of the Ministry of Employment, Productivity, and Workplace Relations’ Foreign Employment Services, emphasized the trainees’ roles as representatives of Fiji in Australia. She encouraged them to conduct themselves admirably, as their actions may inspire others interested in the programme.
Graduation for these dedicated trainees is set for June. This initiative not only highlights the importance of caregiving but also showcases the growing inclusivity within the field, paving the way for diverse individuals to contribute to the care of the elderly.
This is a promising development for those looking to break gender stereotypes in caregiving roles, fostering a more inclusive environment for future caregivers.
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