Spotlight on Steven Enalanga

Thanks to Steven Enalanga for featuring on the front cover of our Annual Report 2023-24!

Steven works at Ntaria Supermarket in Hermannsburg (Ntaria), a community of around 550 people in the West MacDonnell Ranges of Central Australia.

Located just 125 km west of Alice Springs, the community was established by Lutheran missionaries in 1887 and still draws many tourists who visit its historic precinct as well as the nearby attractions of Palm Valley and Wallace Rockhole.

Steven’s schooling was divided between the community and a nearby outstation, as well as Port Pirie and Yirara College in Alice Springs. His best subject was sport, particularly enjoying hockey and basketball.

Prior to working at Outback Stores, Steven worked at the Desert Knowledge Precinct in Alice Springs, doing a mechanics course and then construction work for the local football club in Ntaria.

Steven has completed a Certificate II in Retail Services, thanks to the support of the Outback Stores training team and store managers who provided mentoring throughout the process.

I’ve seen a big change in him, especially after completing his certificates.

– Nicholas Williams

“Now I understand more about how the store works” says Steven, who takes pride in store presentation and operating the cash registers.

Nicholas Williams, chairperson of the store’s local board of directors, has enjoyed seeing Steven’s growth over the past three years.

“I’ve seen a big change in him, especially after completing his certificates. Having the job and providing for his children has built up his confidence and given his family stability,” says Nicholas.

Store manager Karen Schaefer praises Steven’s approach to customer service, explaining that he’s able to have a joke with customers, while at the same time maintaining a professional attitude.

“Stevie is always ready to lend a hand, and he makes the day go quickly because he’s always laughing and enjoying what he’s doing,” says Karen.

Steven encourages his friends to apply to work at the store, jokingly saying, “it’s better than sitting home bored and watching TV.” He says the job suits people who are friendly and enjoy learning, talking to tourists and making friends.

This story was first published in the Outback Stores Annual Report 2023-2024.