Patient

Patient, 30, has ‘always loved technical jobs’. When he was in high school he dreamed of working in a mechanical field, even becoming a mechanical engineer. But his dreams were put on hold when he and his family were forced to flee their home in the Congo (DRC) and live as refugees for six years in the neighbouring Congo Brazzaville.

In 2006 Patient was accepted into Australia, and two years later his career dreams were back on track when he gained a traineeship at Phoenix Fridges, a Brotherhood of St Laurence social enterprise.

Phoenix Fridges reconditions second-hand refrigerators donated by the public, making them more energy and cost efficient, and then resells them through the Brotherhood’s Community Stores.

Patient’s initial role at Phoenix involved repairing both the mechanical and electrical parts of new and old used fridges.

‘The main thing is to try to fix the fridges. Like changing thermostats, replacing seals, timers and de-gassing.’

Patient graduated from the six-month training program, successfully gaining Certificate II in Electrotechnology Services. He was offered full-time employment with Phoenix and currently holds a supervisor position, mentoring other refugees.

‘I was happy to find a way to raise myself up in Australia’, he says. ‘And now I have a full-time job which is securing an income.’

Phoenix Fridges has been running for six years, with the first intake of trainees commencing in June 2007. A number of trainees from refugee or other disadvantaged communities have successfully graduated from the program, achieving Certificate II in Electronic Assembly.

Patient believes it’s vital for refugees to be offered training and employment opportunities in Australia.

‘It’s important because when people are coming they have no idea of the country, of what they could be ... or what they can do. A program like this actually helps newcomers to settle’, he says.

Phoenix also assists low-income earners and families, who benefit by being able to purchase restored fridges at a reduced cost. In addition, the business does its bit for the environment by de-gassing fridges, removing harmful chemicals and making them more environmentally friendly, as well as recycling any scrap metal.

To learn more go to Phoenix Fridges or call the Brotherhood of St Laurence on (03) 9380 7800. To donate a fridge phone 1300 366 283 (1300 DONATE).