As an international student from Jakarta, Raissa knew she wanted to explore more of Australia after graduating from university in Brisbane.

That’s when she learned of an opportunity in Darwin, offering career development and an ambitious lifestyle, Raissa made her move.

“Darwin seemed like the right fit. Its close proximity to Indonesia made it very appealing because my family can come up to visit.”

Raissa now works as a Graduate Consultant at True North Strategic Communication, one of Australia’s Northern Territory’s premier PR and communication agencies.

Graduates will often experience accelerated career progression, supported by the growing economy, emerging industries and young population when they work in Australia’s Northern Territory.

“I want to be a professional communicator who can confidently speak to anyone about anything. I have industries I’m interested in – banking, entertainment and education – but I’d love to learn about other sectors as well. I believe that working here in the NT will help me fast-track my goals because there’s so many industries operating here.”

“It’s great that True North often work with these industries too, which helps improve my expertise in public relations and marketing as well. There’s always an opportunity for me to learn more.”

Despite Raissa’s initial misconceptions about the smaller population, she quickly learnt that what the Territory may lack in numbers, it makes up for in professional possibility and multicultural richness.

“I was concerned that there weren’t a variety of cuisines here because there weren’t many people, but my time here has definitely changed this idea – there’s so much good food from so many different cultures! Jakarta and Darwin are both very multicultural.”

“While Jakarta is a melting pot of different Indonesian ethnicities, Darwin has a large community of over 60 nationalities. I find that to be very refreshing, especially because I love learning about different cultures. This multiculturalism also helps me settle into the Territory better because I feel like I’m part of a larger community that accepts everyone regardless of their background.”

But Raissa isn’t just settling in, she’s fast-tracking her industry experience, and encourages other graduates to consider starting their career in the Northern Territory too.

When asked what advice she would share, she said, “I’m not an expert because I’m just starting my career, but it’s important to understand the skills you excel in and areas you’re passionate about. This helps differentiate yourself from competitors.”

“And be confident in your knowledge and skills! This will show through your resume and interviews. If you’re not fully confident yet, fake it ‘till you make it.”