When Mario arrived at his manufacturing host employer site in Brisbane back in July 2024 from Timor-Leste, he came with a strong work ethic and a willingness to learn. Just over 18 months later, that dedication has seen him earn a promotion and take the next step in his career. Since arriving inJuly 2024, Mario has maintained an outstanding attendance record, taking zero days off while consistently demonstrating reliability, commitment and a positive attitude. Backing himself to step up Recognising his potential, his host employer offered Mario the opportunity to step into a Level 1 Leading Hand role within the palletisation team. While he was initially hesitant, particularly due to concerns about his English, his RWM wellbeing and welfare site manager Lee encouraged him to back himself. Across RWM's PALM workforce, 92 percent of workers rate our Cultural Welfare Officers as extremely or very helpful, support that played a part in Mario's decision to take the leap. Mario took on the challenge and after a successful probationary period was made permanent in the role in January 2026. Following this he'll begin an in-class leadership training program, joining the 98 percent of RWM's PALM employees who have completed, started or are working toward further training and qualifications while on placement. "They told me they believed I could do it," Mario said. "I was nervous because English isn't my first language, but I wanted to challenge myself. I'm glad I said yes because I've learned so much and grown in confidence." A permanent role and the next step After successfully completing his probation, Mario was appointed permanently to the role on in January 2026. This month, he will continue building his leadership skills by taking part in an in class leadership training program. For Mario, the promotion meant achieving what he came to Australia to do. "I want to be someone my team can rely on," said Mario. "I'm still learning every day, but I want to help others, set a good example and show that if you work hard and keep trying, opportunities will come." Investing in people who are reliable and ready to lead Mario's journey highlights the value of recognising potential and investing in people. Through the PALM scheme, RWM and his host employer have continued to identify emerging leaders and provide them with the support, training and confidence to succeed. Lee, Mario’s RWM Wellbeing and Welfare site manager, said Mario's promotion reflects the qualities he has demonstrated since day one. "Mario has consistently shown initiative, reliability and a willingness to step outside his comfort zone," Lee said. "When the opportunity came up, we knew he had the potential to succeed. It's been fantastic to watch his confidence grow and we're excited to see him continue developing as a leader." Lee also said stories like Mario's demonstrate the long term value the PALM scheme creates for both employees and employers. "Mario's journey is a great example of what can happen when dedication meets opportunity," Lee said. "Employers who invest in their PALM workforce are building stronger businesses while creating meaningful career pathways for their employees.” As Mario begins his formal leadership training, he is already inspiring his PALM cohort to embrace new challenges, proving that with hard work, resilience and the right support, leadership opportunities are within reach.