Nathan Brews Up Success: From Training to Barista Role in Mildura

Nathan joined our Finding and Keeping a Job (FKJ) program in Mildura with a clear passion for the café industry, especially coffee making. We were delighted to support his ambition, and with the guidance of his Senior NDIS Mentor, Ashley Chambers, Nathan began his journey to becoming a barista. He started building practical skills through hands-on training, using our café training trolley to perfect his craft by making coffees for our staff and visitors.

Nathan truly enjoyed the practical, hands-on approach of the training, appreciating the chance to develop real café skills in a supportive environment. This initial practice was crucial, allowing him to gain confidence and refine his techniques before moving into a work placement. We believe that providing these real-world experiences is key to building both capability and self-assurance.

His dedication paid off as he progressed from our onsite practice to a valuable work experience placement at Mildura Base Public Hospital. This experience proved to be a direct pathway to success, as Nathan soon secured casual open employment as a barista there. We have seen a significant growth in his confidence and capability; he now takes great pride in his customer service, expertly preparing drinks, and maintaining a clean, organised workstation.

We are incredibly proud of Nathan’s journey and his achievements. Together, we create opportunity, supporting people to build skills, confidence, and pathways to meaningful work.