Choosing to be a part of the ONSITE programme was definitely the best choice for me.

This year, as a Year 11 student, I participated in the ONSITE programme. When I was asked what I did for ONSITE and I replied “I do social media”, everyone was shocked, “I didn’t know you could do that!”

ONSITE isn’t just for trades. There are endless options for all industries you might be interested in! My placement has been at The Jungle Body/Mermade Hair HQ for both semesters. Last year, I did a little bit of work for both companies. Unfortunately, I didn’t have much time to do anything, that was until I found out about the ONSITE programme. Tara Simich, who founded both companies, was my neighbour and I continued to babysit her boys, which is how I got my placement.

If I stay dedicated and work hard, success will follow. Working in this environment has made that clear. My job mostly consists of doing social media – creating, editing, and posting content. If I’m not doing social media, I help in the retail department with stock takes, packing orders and sometimes handling customer service. I work with an amazing team and I’ve learnt so much from each of them in this time. Management is something that I’m very passionate about, it’s just so satisfying when things go to plan. It’s even more fun to figure out a solution for problems that arise.

Although I am still deciding what I would like to do when I’m older, being part of this programme has definitely given me some ideas as to what I do want. Right now, I am in training to become a Jungle Body Instructor. Tara and I are discussing the possibility of a full-time job after I leave school which is very exciting. I love the work I do and the opportunities that I am so lucky to have been offered. ONSITE has been a highlight of my year and I am very grateful to have participated in the programme. It proved to me that I don’t have to be the smartest person in the room to accomplish something.

Isabella Chillemi – Year 11