Business
26 June, 2025
Mum on new career path
A NEW Skill Up Program to help women aged 25-plus to return to the workforce has been a God-send for Filipino migrant Mary Jade Taguchi.
She said she had always wanted to work with children, “but for a long time I didn’t think it was possible”.
Ms Taguchi migrated from the Philippines to Australia in 2022. Just a year later, she proudly became a permanent resident – ready to build a new life, but unsure how to get started.
“I felt overwhelmed. I didn’t have local experience and I didn’t know where to begin,” she said.
That changed when she discovered The MaraWay’s return-to-work program for women aged 25 and over – led by a proud, inclusive Indigenous board committed to supporting all women to succeed.
“From the first day, I felt welcomed,” Ms Taguchi said.
“They saw potential in me that I hadn’t seen in myself.”
More than just training in a new career the Skill Up Program gave her the tools, encouragement and community she needed to move forward with confidence.
“The support was amazing. They helped me believe I could start again, even in a new country,” Ms Taguchi said.
Now, she is on her way to becoming an early childhood educator – a dream that once felt out of reach.
“I finally feel like I’m on the right path. I have purpose and I can see a future for me and my family here,” Ms Taguchi said.
She said one of the most valuable aspects of the program was that it was delivered “at no cost” to participants – removing the financial barriers to gaining a nationally recognised qualification CHC30121 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care through an accredited locally owned RTO.
“It’s not just about jobs. It’s about understanding people’s stories, celebrating where we come from and helping each other grow,” Ms Taguchi said.
The MaraWay supported her in finding job placement training. Her enthusiasm and dedication didn’t go unnoticed, and the centre offered her a job – her very first in Australia. “I was so excited,” she said. “It felt like everything was starting to come together.”
For now, Ms Taguchi is working part-time so she can be there for her daughter during these early years.
“Once my daughter starts school, I plan to work full-time,” she said. “And maybe even study further. I want to see where this can take me.”
Women in the community aged 25+ interested in the next Skill Up Program can contact The MaraWay on (07) 4040 2035 to RSVP for the orientation day held on Tuesday, June 24, from 9am - 11am. For more information, see their Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/themaraway
*This qualification is delivered in partnership with MiHaven Training RTO #40928. This Skilling Queenslanders for Work Project is proudly funded by the Queensland Government.
