The Brotherhood partners with Victoria University to provide pathways for jobseekers
Nineteen-year-old Ethopian man, Obsa, wanted to become an electrician, but lacked the skills and qualifications to get a job in the industry. Without this basic foundation, Obsa struggled to capture the attention of employers seeking new apprentices. To gain the necessary skills and get a foot in the door, Obsa joined the Brotherhood's Given The Chance program.
Given The Chance provides disadvantaged people with support to gain employment. It helps jobseekers who are ready to work but lack local experience or have trouble understanding Australian workplace culture. With the help of the Brotherhood, Obsa was placed in a training and employment program with Victoria University (VU), which provides both theoretical and practical skills relevant to the construction industry.
Stephen Murphy, Employer Engagement Manager at the Brotherhood said: 'This sort of training is fantastic to get people into a job. The training is all about preparing for work.'
The program assisted 19 other men who all shared the same goal of finding an apprenticeship. In just eight weeks the course helped prepare Obsa for work in the trade industry. He gained knowledge about industry culture, occupations, job roles, workplace expectations, as well as vital practical skills. Under supervision, he received hands-on experience building picnic tables. One can be found in the Carlton Community Gardens in inner city Melbourne.
Having completed the VU course, Obsa says he is now ready to apply for apprenticeship opportunities. In the meantime he has secured casual work at Cultivating Community, an organisation that provides support to public housing community gardens.
The opportunity Obsa has gained is invaluable for his future. With the support of the Brotherhood and its partnerships, he is now on his way to a successful career in the trade industry.