SYC is proud to collaborate with Mob Jobs to launch the Start Your Deadly Career program, an initiative designed to support First Nations people on their journey to employment and personal growth. This three-week program is aimed at participants in the Workforce Australia program and combines cultural connection with career development, ensuring individuals gain job-ready skills and a renewed sense of pride and identity.
The Start Your Deadly Career program offers a holistic approach to employment, focusing on both professional skills and personal growth. With the guidance of Mob Jobs and the support of SYC, participants engage in workshops that reconnect them with their culture while learning the practical skills to thrive in the workforce.
“We’ve built this program around the core values of strength, culture and community,” shares Chris, Employment Activity Coordinator at SYC.
Uncle Lionel Dukakis, Co-Founder and Director of Mob Jobs, adds, “By focusing on cultural identity alongside the practical aspects of employment, we are providing participants with the tools they need to succeed—while staying true to who they are.”
A key feature of the program is the powerful storytelling shared by Mob Jobs directors, Uncle Lionel Dukakis, a proud Gunditjmara man, and Sara Stuart, a strong Kamilaroi woman. Both leaders reflected on their personal journeys of overcoming adversity and building successful First Nations businesses, offering invaluable insights into navigating between the worlds of culture and career.
As part of the program, participants are encouraged to explore how personal vulnerabilities can lead to growth, with even small changes having the potential to significantly impact their futures. Uncle Lionel and Sara’s stories inspired participants to embrace both their cultural heritage and career aspirations, offering a roadmap for navigating the professional world without compromising values.
“I was so moved by Uncle Lionel and Sara’s stories" said Eddie, a program participant.
“It really helped me reconnect with my culture after moving from the Northern Territory. Hearing from First Nations leaders who’ve succeeded in business gave me the confidence that I can do it too.”
Since completing the program, Eddie has secured employment with Manningham Council in a First Nations-identified role. He credits the program for providing him with the guidance and support needed to succeed.
"The tips and tricks they shared about walking between both worlds have been so helpful,” Eddie added. “It’s not just about finding a job—it’s about understanding who you are and where you come from.”
The Start Your Deadly Career program has received strong support from Workforce Australia’s Local Jobs program, with employees, Brad, an Employment Facilitator and Rachel, a Support Officer, playing an integral role in connecting local service providers and ensuring the initiative reached a wider audience. This collaboration highlights how community organisations can work together to support First Nations people with their journey into the workforce.
The first round of the program had 11 participants, with six securing jobs, two starting employment soon, and others exploring further studies or new careers, including in entertainment.
“Seeing the program’s impact on participants has been incredibly rewarding,” said Anita Peric, Recruitment Specialist and Program Facilitator at Mob Jobs. “It’s not just about getting people employed; it’s about giving them the confidence to take charge of their future.”
The success of Start Your Deadly Career demonstrates the power of combining cultural empowerment with practical skills training. With plans to expand the initiative to other regions, SYC and Mob Jobs are excited about the future of the program and the lasting impact it will have on the lives of First Nations participants.
By focusing on cultural and career development, the Start Your Deadly Career initiative is not just preparing participants for jobs—it’s empowering them to move forward with pride and resilience. We are excited about the continued success of this partnership and the opportunities it will bring to First Nations communities.
For more information, please reach out to: Chris Matheson, Program Coordinator at [email protected]
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