Canning’s Career Accelerator Program is helping build successful futures

Over the last six months the City of Canning’s Career Accelerator Program has helped 24 participants build their confidence, enhance their communication and job-readiness skills, and assisted them in developing strong digital capabilities.

Held at Hillview Intercultural Community Centre, the Career Accelerator Program: Bridging Cultures, Building Futures was introduced to help reduce employment barriers and improve job opportunities for people from multi-cultural backgrounds.

Participants came from a range of backgrounds from software development and construction to customer service and administration.

Once a month, for the last six months, participants attended career development masterclasses delivered by career strategist Cema Santos, engaged in digital work skill tutorials, and received one-to-one tailored advice from career coach from Aly Bannister.

Local resident, Mariama Joy recently completed the six-month program and is extremely grateful for the experience.

“This program has been instrumental in guiding me on how to navigate the Australian job market.

“It has taught me to tell my story and own it, as well as to present my achievements in a quantifiable way.

“It has pushed and motivated me to think outside the box, encouraging me to step out of my comfort zone and explore new opportunities,” said Mariama.

Mayor Patrick Hall said he is proud that the City continues to deliver initiatives like Career Accelerator Program, which provide vital support to minority groups within the community.

“This program gives people from multicultural backgrounds the tools and confidence they need to successfully enter the workforce.

“As Canning is one of the most culturally diverse communities in Perth, it’s essential that we offer programs like this to help set people up for success,” Mayor Hall said.

Since beginning the program 60% of participants have found either part time or full-time employment, and the remaining 40% have signed up with recruitment companies and expanded their professional networks.