TAFE NSW graduate and local business owner Siena Field is one of thousands of entrepreneurs across the state turning skills into success, shining a light on the power of local enterprise.
Siena is defying the numbers. Only 34 per cent of business owners in NSW are female and only 12 per cent of all gardeners are female, with an average working age of 39.
“My love of plants and gardens was inspired by my English grandmother’s beautiful garden, but my whole family has a passion for gardening and horticulture,” she said. “Working outdoors appealed to me, especially after the restrictions from the COVID-19 pandemic, I was sick of being inside all the time.
“I also wanted to prove myself in a male-dominated field and jumped at the chance to take on an apprenticeship. I learnt on the job in a couple of different types of companies and knew I wanted to bring together all my interests and skills to work for myself. Our TAFE NSW teachers’ knowledge was practical and challenging, they went above and beyond to challenge me to learn more advanced aspects of the industry.
“Starting my own business was a great opportunity that all just fell into place,” she continued. “I love the flexibility of having my own time and I’m proud to have grown the business in the year since I took it on.”
The stats
Small businesses make up 97 per cent of all enterprises and employ more than 5 million Australians.
According to SME Business Insights, 28 per cent of small businesses plan to invest in training, showing how important skills are for improving productivity, building resilience, and supporting growth.
Anna Richards, Head Teacher Horticulture at TAFE NSW Ryde said, “TAFE NSW job-ready skills and flexible study pathways support people at every stage of their small-business journey, whether they’re thinking about starting, building their business, or adapting to new market needs.”
“The right skills are the bridge between a good idea and a successful business. Studying at TAFE NSW, students gain real-world practical skills and industry connections to turn their ideas into real opportunities, whether that’s learning a trade or how to build their business.”
For more insight on turning skills into success with TAFE NSW pathways, log on to tafensw.edu.au.