Kwan proves it’s never too late to start a new chapter

At 64, Kwan was ready to find new work. After years of experience in Hong Kong and in Australia, he wanted a role where he could stay active, contribute to a team and continue supporting his family, but limited English and a lack of interview confidence made finding suitable work more challenging.

With support from IntoJobs (delivered by Mas), Kwan began building the tools and confidence he needed to take the next step. His consultant Abhi helped work on his resume, job applications and interview preparation, while focusing on Kwan’s strengths, experience and strong work ethic.

For Abhi, the most important part of his support was helping Kwan believe in what he already had to offer.

“He is really humble, really nice nature, and the way he approaches and talks to people, it’s outstanding,” Abhi said. “The main thing he needed from me was help feeling confident in interviews.”

That confidence, combined with Kwan’s instinctive drive, soon helped him secure employment with Bread Top Bakery. Now 12 weeks into his new role, Kwan is settled, enjoying being part of the team and taking pride in contributing each day.

The job has also made a meaningful difference beyond the workplace, giving Kwan greater independence and helping him continue to support his family.

“The job makes it possible for me to take care of things at home,” Kwan said. “My daughter has a young baby, so we can help them take care a little bit.”

It’s important to Kwan that work keeps him active, connected and learning.

“I like working. You can learn so many things,” he said. “You can have plenty of time to lie down at the end of your life. I’ll keep working. It keeps my body moving.”

Since starting in the role, Kwan has also become a source of support for others in the workplace, helping new employees learn how to work safely with machinery and sharing what he knows.

“Not everybody can do the work when they first come in. So I help them,” Kwan said. “Show them how to be safe with the machines and teach them this and that. My boss trusts me with this.”

Abhi said Kwan’s attitude and commitment had been inspiring to witness.

“He didn’t see the language barrier as something that would stop him from working. All he needed was confidence,” Abhi said. “So with support, we could help boost that for him.”

Seeing Kwan thrive in his new role has reinforced for Abhi the impact that tailored employment support can have, particularly when it is matched with someone’s motivation and lived experience.

“It’s inspiring for me,” Abhi said. “He’s double my age and he’s even doing overtime. I love that. I love that he’s started a new chapter. I hope I’m like him when I’m that age.”

Importantly, the support has continued beyond the job placement. Abhi has remained in regular contact with Kwan and his workplace to help ensure he continues to feel supported as he builds confidence in the role.

Kwan is confident he has plenty of years ahead in the role.

“When you like the work, you can handle anything,” he said.