Voyages Indigenous Tourism Australia has celebrated the achievements of three graduates from the National Indigenous Training Academy (NITA) based at Mossman Gorge Cultural Centre in Far North Queensland.
Antonyo Connolly and Rosetta Kulka have completed a Certificate III in Hospitality, while Allan Gibson earned a Certificate III in Tourism, all delivered in partnership with Careers Training Centre.
The graduates are now part of the growing Indigenous tourism and hospitality workforce with qualifications supported by on-the-job experience.
Ms Kulka is now employed full-time at the Mossman Gorge Cultural Centre Art Gallery and said the program had a major impact on her life.
"The NITA Program has given me confidence and helped me to grow as a person... I'm proud to be working here on my Land and sharing my knowledge," she said.
"I feel connected with my People and the Mossman Gorge Cultural Centre and I enjoy welcoming people here and sharing our beautiful Country with visitors from all over the world."
She added the training provided both practical skills and personal growth.
"I think it was very helpful, it is a very good way of teaching and learning," Ms Kulka said.
"It was a very good experience, especially coming from someone who had nothing going on. I found it to be motivational and changed me."
The NITA program offers Indigenous trainees paid employment, nationally recognised qualifications and support while gaining experience at key tourism locations.
These include Mossman Gorge Cultural Centre and partner organisations such as Back Country Bliss, Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort and Wildlife Habitat.
Voyages Indigenous Tourism Australia CEO, Matt Cameron-Smith, said the graduates reflected the impact of opportunity and support.
"These graduates are a testament to the power of opportunity and the strength of community," he said.
"NITA continues to create pathways for Indigenous youth to thrive in tourism, and we're incredibly proud to see Antonyo, Rosetta, and Allan take this next step in their careers."
Ms Kulka encouraged other young people to take the opportunity.
"Go ahead and give it a try, even if it seems like it will be hard, just go ahead and do your best and give it 100% and you will have a great outcome!" she said.
"At first it was hard, but I kept sticking to it and it just became good, easy and fun. Especially getting to know people."
Applications are open for Indigenous Australians aged 18 to 30 who want to build a career in tourism, hospitality or retail.
More information is available on the NITA website.