Two trainees from the Airport Development Group’s (ADG) Indigenous Training Academy, Tia Graham and Taylah Besic, took centre stage last week as panellists at the Aboriginal Tourism Forum, part of the NT Tourism event. The forum provided an opportunity for emerging Indigenous tourism professionals to share their experiences and inspire others to explore career pathways in the industry.

Both Tia and Taylah highlighted the valuable opportunities ADG has provided through the Indigenous Training Academy, helping them develop new skills, gain industry exposure, and connect with mentors.

Samantha Watkins, Indigenous Training Academy Manager at ADG, highlighted the program's impact, "At ADG, we are committed to supporting Indigenous employment pathways and creating opportunities for our trainees to thrive. Seeing Tia and Taylah confidently share their experiences on this panel is a testament to their growth and the importance of fostering First Nations talent in the tourism industry."

Tia Graham reflected on her journey: "Being part of the Indigenous Training Academy has given me the chance to develop my skills, work in an industry I love, and share my culture with visitors. The opportunities here are life-changing, and I encourage others to explore careers in tourism."

Taylah Besic echoed similar sentiments, highlighting the rewarding nature of her role: "Tourism allows us to share our stories and keep our culture strong. Working at ADG has opened doors for me and given me the confidence to be a role model for other young Indigenous people looking to build a career in the industry."

ADG’s Indigenous Training Academy continues to play a vital role in developing career pathways for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, reinforcing the importance of cultural inclusivity, skills development, and economic empowerment in the Northern Territory’s tourism sector.