We asked one of our Inspiring volunteers, Michael, to share what he loves about Inspiring the Future and some advice for young people. 

How long have you been volunteering with Inspiring the future?

I have been volunteering since it began. It is a brilliant program! 

What made you want to get involved and volunteer with Inspiring the Future? 

I myself came through a similar system with Schools Industry partnership, having been in for an interview when I was 18 and got a role in Real Estate marketing through the connection. I appreciated the assistance and support all those years ago so have made an effort to give back to the system for what it gave me.  

What is it about volunteering with Inspiring the Future that you really enjoy? 

I wish I had a program like this to benefit from when I was at School. So I love being able to positively influence students with their career and advice on how to approach certain situations they may find themselves in.  

Has your career journey taken the path you imagined it would? 

I can confidently say it has from around the time I engaged with Schools Industry Partnership. I initially wanted to be a Primary School teacher but didn’t get the results needed in year 12 so I pursued a business career. Safe to say I am happy with how things have played out 

What is something about your career journey that has surprised you? 

How important the basics are. Success in any form is rarely achieved without consistently doing things that require zero talent, like a strong work ethic, enthusiasm in everything you do, great attitude and body language. People sign up to expensive programs and self help coaching but they fail to understand that consistency in the traits I mentioned will ensure sustained success (however someone defines this). Patience in the process mixed with hard work will ensure anyone is valued. 

What is one piece of advice that you would share with young people today? 

You need to enjoy your job or career to achieve your potential. It is very hard to motivate yourself to do something you don’t enjoy. Also believe in the process, be patient and don’t expect things straight away, know that loyalty is valued.