Twenty-three young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander trainees graduated from the National Indigenous Training Academy (NITA) with a nationally recognised Certificate III in Hospitality on Friday 27 February at Ayers Rock Resort, Uluṟu, launching the next chapter in their careers.
Twenty graduates and their families attended the ceremony, comprising a special gala dinner featuring Inma (ceremonial song and performance) by Anangu Elders c/o Maruku Arts. Federal Minister for Skills and Training Andrew Giles, the Voyages Board, ILSC CEO Joe Morrison, Voyages CEO Matt Cameron-Smith and Journey Beyond CEO, Chris Tallent, also attended.
The February 2026 cohort all graduated with a Certificate III in Hospitality, specialising in Food and Beverage, Housekeeping or Front Office.
Previous NITA Alumni and keynote speaker Faith Saylor (Meanjin; Brisbane) shared her incredible career story with the graduates, beginning with her traineeship at Kulata Café in 2019. She has since progressed into leadership roles with Central Australian Aboriginal Congress and now works as an Executive Assistant with Penangke Cultural Consultancy, while studying law part-time in her quest to contribute to real change.
Faith says of her journey: “Nineteen-year-old Faith would never have believed she would one day want to become a lawyer. Coming from Brisbane City, unsure of what I wanted to do with my life, my journey here at Uluru has shaped the woman I am today. I am deeply grateful for this experience and for the lifelong friends I made along the way; people I now consider family.”
“This certificate is not the finish line – it is your launch pad.”
2026 Graduate Mercya Day (Meriam; Torres Strait Islands), said of receiving her Certificate III, Front Office: “I first joined the traineeship not only to get new job skills but to get my own income. After being here for a while I have learnt how beautiful and helpful everyone is – and the many opportunities available to me, to grow my skills and learn.”
Since its establishment in 2011, NITA has cemented its position as a leading path through accredited training to employment for Indigenous Australians, with 797 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander trainees having now achieved nationally recognised qualifications through education, paid work experience, and on-site support at leading tourism and hospitality locations. Operated by Voyages (operators of Ayers Rock Resort, Uluru), the program celebrates its 15th Anniversary later this year.
