Xavier turns up to work with a football in his hand – and a future in motion

XAVIER doesn’t always arrive at work with a laptop. Sometimes, it’s a football tucked under his arm.

As a gforce trainee undertaking a Certificate III in Business with AFL Barwon, Xavier’s days are hands-on, fast-paced and deeply connected to the community. It’s not the traditional image of “business training”, and that’s exactly the point.

Traineeships are redefining how careers begin. They offer an entry point that’s practical, supported and, importantly, paid.

Instead of choosing between study and work, trainees get the best of both worlds, earning an income while developing real skills on the job and working towards a nationally recognised qualification.

For many, that combination is the difference between waiting for an opportunity and stepping straight into one.

For young people and career changers alike, traineeships are a powerful way to kickstart a career.

They remove the “how do I get experience without experience?” roadblock, replacing it with structured learning and meaningful employment.

From business and administration, health, trades and beyond, there are countless options across industries, which means there is room to explore what genuinely excites you.

Guided by compassionate gforce mentors, trainees aren’t left to figure things out alone. They’re guided by experienced employers, mentors and trainers who walk alongside them through every stage of the journey.

“gforce has supported me by giving me someone to go back to when I need help about work”, Xavier said.

That support builds confidence, capability and clarity about what comes next.

Xavier’s experience with AFL Barwon is a great example.

While completing his Certificate III in Business, he is gaining exposure to administration, operations and community sport, all in a setting he is passionate about.

It is a foot in the door of an industry he loves – paired with a qualification that opens doors far beyond the football field – whether it leads to a dream job straight away or becomes a stepping stone to further study or career progression.

“It’s been great working with football and netball in the local region and I have loved my time here,” Xavier said.

“I’ve learned so much during my time with AFL Barwon and I would 100 per cent recommend taking on a traineeship to anyone.”

Careers don’t all start the same way, and they shouldn’t have to. Sometimes, they start with a football in hand, a payslip in your pocket and a qualification in progress.

Traineeships make that possible, turning potential into momentum and giving people a chance to learn, earn and belong from day one.

//SPONSORED CONTENT