ParentsNext client, Ikram, is a Culturally and Linguistically Diverse client who is a single parent of six children. She migrated to Australia from Somalia in her teenage years.
When she entered the atWork Australia office in Gosnells, WA, she was working as an Uber Driver, but she was not making sufficient money to support her family’s needs.
Ikram confided in her Job Coach Anne about her lost confidence and previous experiences with employers. She explained her passion for the industry and how her confidence was torn apart in the past.
In 2015, shortly after completing her training in the certificate III in aged care, the perfect opportunity arose with a local employer, and she was invited for an interview. Unfortunately, she was not offered the position. After asking for feedback, she was advised she was not offered the position due to her language skills.
As a first port of call, Anne worked with Ikram on redefining her employment goals. One of these goals was for her to enter the aged care sector once her youngest child starts school. With this goal in place, Anne enrolled her within the SEE program with Centacare to build her language skills and give her confidence when attending interviews.
After reassessing her resume, Ikram and Anne also identified that updating her first aid certification and gaining her manual handling training would also be beneficial and attractive to employers. So, Anne financially supported her in achieving these too.
After another interview, Ikram was overjoyed to announce to Anne that she was successful in obtaining a position as a Care Support Worker.
Ikram advised that “The support I have received has given me the confidence and skills needed to be successful in employment.”
“I am now in a better financial position to support my family’s needs. I have another long-term goal I am looking forward to achieving now I have employment – buying a home.”
Every year, atWork Australia help thousands of clients like Ikram, expand their skills and qualifications to help them gain the right job with the right employer. Call us today on 1300 080 856 or enquire online to find out how we can help you meet your career goals
