The Future Self program is proudly supported by the Department of Education and Training.

This initiative aims to enhance and support the learning, transition and aspirational mindset of rural and regional students at the upper primary and secondary school levels. The aim of the program is to build the career aspirations of students by increasing exposure to mentoring, role models and post school pathways. Industry Ambassadors will support students to achieve a greater understanding of employment opportunities and career pathways through school engagement activities such as school presentations, workplace tours, Q&A sessions and supporting a student on work placement.

Photo

Amy Jane

Sector

Arts & Creative Industries

Role

Business Owner

Intro

Hi there! My name’s Amy Jane and I am the owner of The New Red. My story isn’t exactly your typical one. In fact, I’ve spent half my life in jobs searching for the one thing that creates some kind of a spark in me. I graduated from secondary college in 2007 and I spent the following 12 years trying my hand at any number of careers. I was a Property Manager, I worked in a Call Centre, did a range of temporary admin assignments, and even tried my hand at selling cars. I never really stayed in a job longer than 12 months. Actually, 12 months was the most. And, as I was turning 30, I really didn’t know where my place in life was. By November 2019, I was working in an admin role for a large company, and I was absolutely dragged down just by the sheer politics behind the scenes. Thanks to my Father, I always had a love of woodwork, and had more recently been trying my hand at some larger projects. Refurbishing furniture, making custom items for friends and even playing with the idea of teaching some of the skills I’d learnt over the years. I really had reached breaking point in my job when, one day, I went in, typed up my resignation and just walked out, and it’s easily the best decision I ever made. I’ve spent the last 18 months putting everything I have into growing my business. Every waking moment, every spare dollar, every bit of energy I have. However, every little bit of hard work is absolutely worth it, because at the end of the day, I get to do something that I truly love. Today my business consists of 3 main elements. Firstly, I refurbish unwanted furniture and give it a brand new life. I strip each piece down to the bare bones and create something practically brand new. Secondly, I create home décor items using exclusively reclaimed timber and I actually often collaborate with other local small businesses to do so. Lastly, and maybe my favourite element, is I teach women’s woodwork workshops. These are done from my workshop at home and are completely tailored to what each student needs. If I’ve learnt one thing, it’s that a decision you make today does not have to be your final one. It’s never too late to try something new, to learn a new skill and to truly find your passion.