Industry leaders connect to boost first nations employment

Hosted by the Waalitj Foundation in partnership with the Alcoa Foundation, industry leaders joined forces recently to create greater opportunities for First Nations Western Australians at a recent round table event.

Welcoming 20 guests, the event focused on demonstrating to employers from the Kwinana region how the Waalitj Foundation Plan 2day 4 2morrow (P242) Employment Program can support organisations in building genuine and sustainable relationships in local communities.

The discussion was facilitated by First Nations leaders and Waalitj staff Erin Rundle and Troy Cook. They led the conversation in acknowledging the complexities and challenges faced by First Nations jobseekers and how organisations can work to improve employment outcomes.

Representatives from a range of industries attended the event including Alcoa Australia, Water Corporation, Programmed, Austal and WesCEF.

Waalitj Foundation Employment Services Manager Erin Rundle said it was encouraging to see the room brimming with organisations wanting to make a genuine and purposeful impact.

“Connecting with our P242 employment program continues to form great outcomes for our participants and corporate partnerships,” Erin said.

“Our experienced First Nations mentors are an important link in creating sustainable employment pathways.”

Alcoa Aboriginal Engagement Lead Bevan Whitby said the Waalitj Employment mentors are advocates and leaders in the community that make a huge difference in the employment journey for First Nations jobseekers.

“Alcoa is proud to be partnering with the Waalitj Foundation to deliver these important employment services in the Kwinana, Peel and Upper Southwest region,” Bevan said.

“The benefits this partnership has had for First Nation’s people in this region has been huge and I look forward to seeing this continue to grow.”