Dream, Believe, Achieve: Jamahl Reuben believes he can achieve anything

Upon completing high school, Jamahl Reuben faced uncertainty about his next steps. Struggling with self-confidence, the prospect of entering the workforce seemed daunting. Encouraged by his father, he enrolled in the Dream, Believe, Achieve program - a partnership between Allara Learning and the North Queensland Cowboys in Townsville. This program offers quality hospitality training, culminating in a nationally recognised Certificate III in Hospitality.

Under the guidance of professional trainers from Allara Learning and dedicated indigenous Cowboys mentors, participants engage in a blend of classroom and hands-on learning. Work experience at local venues allows them to apply their skills, with support provided to secure employment in the industry upon completion.

Within a month of finishing the program, nineteen-year-old Jamahl earned his Certificate III in Hospitality and secured a position as a food and beverage attendant at Brothers Leagues Club in Townsville. Reflecting on his experience, Jamahl said, “it was great to know that I could sign up for a program that would support me not only with training, but with possible employment after
I have completed my studies.”

Moreover, Jamahl highlighted the program's role in fostering personal growth. It enabled him to overcome his shyness, build new relationships, and bolster his confidence - a transformation he never anticipated. Speaking about his journey during a recent event, Jamahl commented: “In school, I wasn’t the type of person who was confident… I liked to keep to myself”, he said. “My trainers did a terrific job. They encouraged me to step out of my comfort zone and to believe in myself. I feel like I have a lot more confidence now… since completing the program, I feel like I can achieve anything!”

Dream, Believe, Achieve trainer Arthur Burchett praised Jamahl's growth, emphasising that the program extends beyond certification to instil confidence and life skills. He views Jamahl's journey as a testament to the transformative power of determination and support.

“To watch Jamahl grow from being very shy to someone who can now speak in front of over one hundred people showed that this wasn’t just a Certificate III course for him – this was a confidence booster and about gaining life skills. To see Jamahl grow has been inspiring and demonstrates to others that anyone can not only achieve their goals, but change their lives for the better,” said Dream, Believe, Achieve trainer Arthur Burchett.

Encouraging other school leavers facing uncertainty, Jamahl urged them to pursue their aspirations with determination, citing his own journey as proof of what is possible: “If you want something, go and get it! If I can achieve it, why can’t you?”