Omolola

In early 2023, Omolola arrived in Australia from Nigeria as a humanitarian migrant, seeking safety and a fresh start for herself and her six-year-old daughter. Despite having a background in immigration and completing accredited training courses in the UK, Omolola found it nearly impossible to secure work in her new home.

The reality of starting over wasn’t easy, she says,“There was no common ground between my resume and what employers here were looking for,”. “I felt invisible, like my experience didn’t matter.”

Omolola faced discrimination, financial pressure, and moments of deep self-doubt. Even with her strong faith and support from family abroad, she struggled to regain her footing. Then, she found SisterWorks.

At a time when she felt devalued and unsure of her next steps, Omolola joined SisterWorks’ Hospitality Training Program at the Dandenong Empowerment Hub. Over the next three months, she not only developed practical skills and job readiness but also grew more confident in herself and her future.

“I’m a shy person—I’d never spoken in front of a large group before. But SisterWorks gave me a safe space. They believed in me before I believed in myself.”

With resume support and hands-on training, Omolola landed her first job in December with a major hospitality provider, Delaware North. Known for her punctuality and strong work ethic, she quickly became a standout team member.

“If my shift is at 5pm, I’m there by 4. Everyone knows me. They say, ‘Omolola, you’re doing good.’ I say, ‘Yes.’”

Recently, Omolola joined the BUPA team, and she continues to impress them with her dedication and warmth. While she is still looking for additional work to support her family fully, she is finally in a place of growing confidence and stability.

What keeps her going? “There were moments I felt devalued,” she says.“My daughter tells me she’s proud of me,” Omolola says, smiling. “That’s everything”. That keeps her going!Through SisterWorks, Omolola hasn’t just found employment but she’s reclaimed her voice, dignity, and strength. Her journey has been guided by a resilient spirit, international training, and an unwavering determination to build a better future for herself and her six-year-old daughter and it’s that determination that’s brought her to where she is today.