Partnership Increases First Nations Employment

Employment opportunities for First Nations jobseekers are being boosted thanks to a partnership between the Waalitj Foundation and Alcoa Foundation. For Natasha attending Fit 4 Work was an opportunity to build her confidence and get back into the workforce. As she progressed each week and saw the benefits of attending, Natasha decided to bring her son along too.

“I was nervous to apply for jobs before coming to Fit 4 Work and now I’m applying left, right and centre,” said Natasha.

Fit 4 Work sessions incorporate presentations from potential employers, advice from the Waalitj team of First Nation mentors and service providers including tax and identification assistance. Natasha attends the Waalitj Foundation’s Fit 4 Work sessions based at the Medina Aboriginal Community Centre every Wednesday.

These sessions are apart of the Foundation’s Plan 2day 4 2morrow (P242) program which is delivered across the Kwinana, Peel, and the Upper South-West region thanks to a partnership with the Alcoa Foundation. This program has seen 89 First Nations participants engaged since January 2022, from this 24 have been placed into employment.

“Pursuing employment to create better opportunities for her family; Natasha is a great role model, and an example of what perseverance can achieve,” said Employment Mentor, Chantenee.

Mentors assist participants with building the confidence and capabilities needed to secure meaningful and sustainable employment. Whether this is running mock interviews, creating resumes, or helping with transport, the Waalitj team provide a culturally safe and supportive environment.

“My mentor Chantenee is deadly, she has helped me with my confidence and also in becoming a better person.”

“Having a First Nations mentor means they understand me, they are like my big sisters,” said Natasha.

Natasha’s son was delighted to hear the news that he had secured a job just weeks after first attending Fit 4 Work. Through the program he is also obtaining his driver’s licence.

“I’m proud of myself and my son and I thank Chantenee for everything.”

For more information about Fit 4 Work visit the Plan 2Day 4 2morrow page.