Finding work after losing a job can be daunting, especially when navigating a new country and unfamiliar systems. For Innocent Ntumba Tshilombo, what began as a challenging period of unemployment became the start of a new career chapter- one that would see him become an Employment Consultant and purchase his first home in Australia.

After his previous employment contract ended, Innocent turned to CVGT Employment’s Workforce Australia program for support. That decision introduced him to Employment Consultant Anu Pal and opened the door to a career focused helping others facing similar challenges.

Anu remembers their first meeting, saying she “quickly noticed Innocent’s professionalism and proactive attitude.” At the time, she was running a training workshop to support culturally diverse Participants, but the language barriers made it challenging.

A moment that sparked a career

Seeing an opportunity, Anu asked Innocent to step in as an interpreter for the group session. He agreed and “engaged Participants with clarity and empathy, helping them understand course content and boosting their confidence.”

Seeing his potential as an Employment Consultant, Anu encouraged Innocent to apply for a role at CVGT Employment.

From interpreter to consultant

Innocent applied, interviewed, and was successful. Since joining the Albury team as an Employment Consultant, Innocent has flourished, placing numerous Congolese Participants into employment, bridging language gaps and helping them understand their responsibilities under Workforce Australia. His multilingual skills have made a profound difference in Participant engagement and outcomes.

A powerful lived experience

Anu says she is “incredibly proud of Innocent’s journey into employment.”

He has successfully secured full-time work in a field where he’s making a meaningful difference in the lives of many participants, especially those from his own community.
Anu Pal
CVGT Employment Consultant

Having walked the path himself, she believes Innocent brings “a powerful lived experience that inspires and motivates others” and that his story “continues to encourage those who may be facing similar challenges.”

Making an impact

Reflecting on his own journey, Innocent says he is “deeply grateful for the support of my CVGT Employment Albury team who guided my transition from humanitarian emergency response into the employment services sector.” He explains that as an Employment Consultant, he is “passionate about empowering diverse job seekers, promoting inclusive practices, and driving strong employment outcomes.”

Representing CVGT Employment at events such as World Refugee Day celebrations and stakeholder engagements, including with the Australian Red Cross and Volunteer Resource Bureau, has enabled me to apply my coordination and programmatic expertise in meaningful ways to support refugee and migrant communities.
Innocent Ntumba Tshilombo
CVGT Employment Consultant

Today, Innocent has achieved a major milestone by purchasing his first home in Australia. From looking for work to becoming a valued team member at CVGT Employment, Innocent has also helped countless people in his community find work and build confidence. It’s a powerful example of how lived experience can inspire and create opportunities for others.

Connect to CVGT Employment

Looking for meaningful employment? Our team is here to provide dedicated support every step of the way.
Call 132 848 or visit cvgt.com.au to learn more.

You can also visit into our local CVGT Employment Albury office or find an office near you.