Souths Cares’ Barranggirra Program has been working in partnership with the University of Western Sydney to increase Aboriginal employment and career pathways at the University’s Parramatta Campus.
Launched in April 2022, Western Sydney University’s ‘Ignite Program’ is a fulltime Business Administration Traineeship which includes employment exposure across seven of the University’s business units, combined with fortnightly classroom learning at the Kimberwalli Centre.
Seven Trainees recently reached the half-way milestone of their training, with the program currently having an 88% retention rate. The diverse group of Trainees includes learners who are in their early 20’s and have recently completed high school as well as mature-aged learners who are re-training within the Business Sector.
The success of the initiative has come through a program structure that includes learning in a local community setting, full-time employment at a dynamic and inclusive workplace, and regular mentoring to support the individual needs of each Trainee.
Catherine Cooper is a Trainer and Assessor at Western Sydney University College and has been teaching the theoretical components of the course. She explained the group is making the most of the opportunity.
“The Ignite Program gives Aboriginal Trainees a great opportunity to work at WSU while studying Business. It is hard work but with the support from their supervisors, peers, and Souths Cares, the Trainees are achieving great things and building a good foundation for their future careers in Business ’’, Catherine said.
Allira Johnson is excelling in her Traineeship and believes the mentoring provided through the Barranggirra Program has been an important factor.
“The Barranggirra Program is a major support system for us Trainees completing our Cert III in Business while working at Western Sydney University.
This is my first real job out in the big world and having a mentor to support, guide me and be there to have a yarn with without fear of judgment has made all the difference”, Allira said.
The Barranggirra Program is proudly supported by Training Services NSW.
