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Stories SA

Meet your mentor: From stage to support

Introducing Chloe Willis, a mentor in our ASA team in South Australia. Chloe’s diverse background, from acting to disability support, has shaped her unique approach to mentoring.

Career journey

Chloe’s career has been diverse and rewarding, she says, beginning by training and working as an actor for eight years.

“This taught me creativity, resilience, and strong communication skills.” After that, she transitioned into the disability sector, initially working as a support worker. 

“This experience gave me a deep understanding of inclusion and the importance of tailored support,” she says.

From there, Chloe moved into Disability Employment Services, first as an Employment Consultant and later as an Employment Support Consultant, helping people overcome barriers to find meaningful work.

“Today, as an Apprenticeship Mentor, I draw on all those experiences to support apprentices in achieving their goals and thriving in their careers.”

Inspirations

Chloe’s inspiration has always come from helping people overcome challenges and achieve their goals. 

“When I worked in the disability sector, I was inspired by the resilience and determination of the individuals I supported, and I wanted to make a real difference in their lives by creating opportunities for independence and inclusion,” she says.

“In my current role as an Apprenticeship Mentor, my inspiration comes from seeing apprentices grow in confidence and succeed in their chosen careers. I’m motivated by the idea that the right support can change someone’s future, and I love being part of that journey.”

Education and contribution

Chloe holds an Advanced Diploma in Arts (Acting), “which gave me strong communication and interpersonal skills that I use everyday in mentoring”.

Alongside that, she has completed a range of practical and compliance-based training, including First Aid & CPR, COVID Safety and Marshal training, RAN (Responding to Abuse and Neglect), NDIS Worker Orientation, Introduction to Disability Awareness, Manual Handling, and Food Safety.

“These courses have equipped me with the knowledge to support people safely and effectively in diverse environments.”

Helping others reach their potential

“My career journey has benefited me by giving me a deep understanding of people, resilience, and the importance of creating opportunities,” Chloe says.

“Working across the arts, disability support, and employment services has taught me how powerful tailored support can be in helping someone reach their potential.

“In my current role, I plan to contribute to the community by empowering apprentices to succeed in their careers, building their confidence, and helping them overcome barriers. I also aim to strengthen connections between employers and apprentices, fostering inclusive workplaces that benefit the broader community.”

What Chloe enjoys most about being an Apprenticeship Mentor is the opportunity to make a real difference in someone’s career journey.

“I love building strong relationships with apprentices, understanding their goals, and supporting them through challenges so they can succeed,” she says.

“Every day is different, and I find it rewarding to see the growth in confidence and skills that comes from having the right support.

“It’s also great to work collaboratively with employers to create positive, inclusive workplaces.”

Apprenticeship Support Australia deliver specialist services in key locations for apprentices and employers in the clean energy industry as well as women in trades and First Nations.


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