Two days after graduating from high school, Nelson Satour had a traineeship at the Alice Springs newspaper, the Centralian Advocate.

A career counsellor at his high school alerted the young Central Arrernte man to the opportunity.

‘I applied for the traineeship because I really enjoy writing,’ Nelson said.

‘As a student, I enjoyed reading and writing, and a traineeship in journalism isn't very common, or a career path I had ever considered. When I had the opportunity to join, I joined because it seemed like a choice that would suit me.’

That was almost 11 months ago and since then, while working for the paper, he has been completing a Certificate II in Creative Industries.

‘This involves the research and production of articles,’ Nelson said.

‘It also involves the application and training in multiple media, such as using the correct settings and camera type for a photo, as well as Photoshop and similar programs.’

Nelson has worked on a lot of articles. He is responsible for finding and developing stories, and taking photos.

Nelson said he enjoys the friendly atmosphere in the office and being able to write articles that the Alice Springs locals can read.

He said his favourite part of the job is having the freedom to write stories he’s passionate about and being a voice for the Indigenous youth of Central Australia.

The traineeship will finish in December giving Nelson a qualification and work experience suitable for a long and fulfilling career.

‘I hope that qualification will be able to lead me into further jobs requiring literary skills or a media operator,’ Nelson said.

GTNT facilitated Nelson’s employment placement and traineeship and is supporting him during training and work placement.