Learning English, growing confidence: Noy’s recipe for success

When Phongphanh Phommahaxay (Noy) arrived in Australia from Laos, she was eager to improve her English and gain the confidence to build a new life Through studying the Certificate III in EAL (Access) 22640VIC and completing a hospitality work experience placement, she has developed the confidence, skills and experience to pursue her ambitions.   

Before moving to Australia, Noy studied business computing in Hanoi and later worked for a pharmaceutical company in Laos, handling administrative tasks, data entry and customer orders. She relocated to Australia, where she decided that developing her English skills would be the first step towards achieving greater independence and future career opportunities. 

"I don't speak English well, and I wanted to improve my spoken English," Noy says. "I also wanted the option to study something else after learning English." 

While studying, Noy has enjoyed learning alongside classmates from a wide range of countries and cultures, building friendships and confidence in a supportive environment.  

A highlight of her course has been completing work experience with The Food Collective at Melbourne Polytechnic's Epping campus. The social enterprise provides training and employment opportunities in hospitality, particularly for young people and people from migrant and refugee backgrounds. 

Working in the busy campus café has allowed Noy to gain practical hospitality skills while continuing to develop her English in real-world situations. 

"I love that I'm able to serve people and make the food," she says. 

From preparing cheese pies, wraps and other fresh food items to assisting customers, Noy has embraced every opportunity to learn. Although she had some previous hospitality experience working with relatives in Laos, much of what she does at The Food Collective was completely new to her.  

"The people here have helped me a lot and taught me how to make things like chicken wraps," she says. "I've been doing a lot of things I've never done before, and they've been great at teaching me."  

Along the way, she's developed valuable skills and learned how a professional kitchen operates. 

"I've learned teamwork and working together in a kitchen," Noy says. "I've learned a lot very quickly, and each time I work in the kitchen I become faster." 

The placement has also become an important part of her English-language learning journey. Listening to customer orders, communicating with colleagues and working in a fast-paced environment has helped her build confidence using English every day. 

Noy has now completed multiple work experience placements with The Food Collective and says each one has helped her meet new people and strengthen her skills. 

Looking ahead, she plans to continue her studies after completing her English course and hopes to pursue a career in hospitality. Her next goal is to enrol in a cookery course, where she can learn new techniques and cuisines. 

For Noy, the combination of English-language studies and hands-on industry experience has opened the door to new possibilities. Whether she's preparing food, serving customers or planning her next qualification, she's building the skills and confidence to take the next step toward employment in Australia.