Valentine has been looking for work for six years; he came to Australia in 2001 as a refugee from Zimbabwe and lives with a mental health condition due to previous trauma he experienced back home in Africa. Additionally, he did not have stable accommodation and did not know many people in Australia.
Valentine, 42, from Clarkson, WA, lacked confidence and says he was “struggling to become a complete person”. He reached out to atWork Australia and was connected with Job Coach, Jessica.
When he joined the Disability Employment Service program, Valentine was withdrawn, nervous and scared. Understandably, he wanted to take the process slowly. This is something Jessica supported. It was important for her to ensure the foundations to Valentine’s life were stable before trying to place him into employment.
Jessica provided him with support and counselling, mapping out how Valentine wanted his future to look. Valentine attended weekly appointments while he completed the Positivum program; taking the time to set goals with Jessica. This motivated Valentine and he has now progressed to the Jobs Now program that is designed to help clients with resume and interview preparation to get them job-ready.
The Jobs Now program showed Valentine different websites he could use to apply for work and encourage him to find meaningful employment.
He looked into the option of volunteering to help build experience and confidence.
However, Valentine found a really nice employer who he wanted to work for and applied for the role of a warehouse assistant. When he found out that he was successful, he was so happy. He felt valued and excited that “someone was willing to give him a chance”.
Valentine said, “Jessica was a good Job Coach. She was great motivation, kept open communication and was always there to talk through it all when times got tough.”
Jessica worked closely with the employer to ensure Valentine would receive the support he needed. They are thankful to Jessica and atWork Australia.
Since starting work and feeling happy with his job and the confidence it has given him, Valentine is now saving up for a car to help with his commute.
Every year, atWork Australia helps thousands of clients like Valentine 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.