Empowering Youths: Sepi Alu's Journey from Lambu Lambu village to Australia

Sepi Alu, from Lambu Lambu village in the Western Province, is currently utilizing her skills in both hospitality and youth work to care for elderly people in Australia. Her journey fueled by hard work, perseverance, and a willingness to seize opportunities, serves as an inspiration for young Solomon Islanders.

Sepi's story began to unfold in 2018 when she enrolled at the Solomon Islands National University (SINU) to pursue a certificate in Travel and Tourism. With determination and dedication, she completed her studies in 2019, setting the stage for what would become a remarkable journey ahead.

After graduation, Sepi embarked on a part-time role as a kitchen hand at the local Fusion Café at SINU, immersing herself in the hospitality industry. However, her thirst for learning and growth did not stop there.

In 2020, she received a life-changing opportunity to further her studies in Certificate IV in Youth Work – a prospect she eagerly embraced. As part of the course, she spent six months in practical with the Family Support Centre, where she developed invaluable skills in community engagement and support—refining her skills and knowledge in youth development.

But Sepi's journey was just beginning to unfold. In April 2022, she received a call from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade, inviting her to apply for an opportunity that would take her beyond the shores of Honiara, Solomon Islands.

With anticipation building, Sepi wasted no time in submitting her application, eventually leading to an offer that would change her life.

In June of the same year, Sepi embarked on a journey to Alice Springs in the Northern Territory of Australia under the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility scheme, where she secured a position as a Kitchen Hand in the Hospitality sector of the Aged Care facility operated by Australian Regional Remote Community Services.

Far from home, Sepi found herself immersed in a new environment, providing hospitality support to elderly individuals – a role she embraced with compassion and dedication.

"The experience I have when working here is I speak English every day in the workplace which makes me more confident to speak with other people."

Through the PALM Scheme, Sepi not only supported her family back home but also ventured into entrepreneurship, starting her own transportation service. With the purchase of a car, Sepi joined the Kings Taxi Service. This business supports her children's education while away from home.

Despite the distance and challenges she faces, Sepi remains resilient, staying connected with her loved ones through modern technology.

Through platforms like Facebook and WhatsApp, she bridges the gap, reminding herself and others that distance should never be a barrier to maintaining strong familial bonds.

She advises young people in the Solomon Islands and beyond to start small, embrace every opportunity for growth, and believe in their potential to succeed. The key lies in building confidence, gaining experience, and never underestimating the power of hard work and determination.

"Start small with any job to develop your confidence and gain experience. We all have the potential to excel in life. For me, I developed my confidence when I joined the Youths Division of the Honiara City Council as a volunteer."

Telebere is a vibrant platform dedicated to advocating for youth issues. Our mission is to empower young people, amplify their voices, and drive positive change throughout the Solomon Islands using the power of online media.