SETN Success Story - Meet Aleesha
Getting a first job can feel like a catch‑22 you need experience to get hired, but you need a job to get experience. That was the hurdle Aleesha kept hitting when she started applying for hospitality roles. She had the right attitude and a strong work ethic, but not the on the job history employers were asking for.
Aleesha first heard about Southern Employment & Training Network (SETN) through her school. The more she learned, the more it sounded like the practical step she needed. With SETN’s support and guidance from Youth Jobs Coach Gary she enrolled in the SETN Hospitality Boot Camp to build confidence, capability and real, job‑ready skills. Gary also sat down with her to map out simple, achievable goals, helped her polish applications and interview answers, and checked in regularly so she always knew what came next. He also opened doors introducing Aleesha to local venues and lining up a work experience placement at Kingston Hotel so she could finally overcome the “no experience” barrier in a supported environment.
That pathway worked. The combination of industry relevant training and real shifts behind a busy bar gave Aleesha the credibility she needed. Today she’s working Front of House at Robbie Browns and on the bar at Kingston Hotel the same venue where she first completed her SETN placement. What she loves most is the pace and the people. “I love how busy Robbie Browns is and I’ve made such good relationships with the people I work with; I genuinely get excited to go to work.” She also values the team culture and steady shifts: “The team is really supportive and kind. And I also like that I’m offered plenty of good hours, which helps me build even more experience and earn some money.”
Aleesha brought the effort and commitment. SETN provided the training, structure and real world experience to turn a first chance into paid work and a clear path forward. Southern Employment & Training Network is proud to support young people to build skills, confidence and careers, and proud to celebrate success stories like Aleesha’s.