One of the major ways in which mmvllen supports young people in Maribyrnong and Moonee Valley is by facilitating one-to-one career mentoring.
Mentoring can provide young people, particularly those facing barriers to employment, with insights, support and a listening ear to help them flourish in their post-school lives.
A recent evaluation of mmvllen’s Youth Career Mentoring Pathways (YMCP) program showed 70 percent of participants move into employment whilst involved in – or on completion of – the program. 100 percent of young people who participated in the program felt it left them better prepared for the job market and more confident finding work.
Farida was fresh out of high school and looking for guidance around employment when she stumbled upon the YMCP program. “One of the biggest barriers I faced was finding where to apply for a job and how to structure my resume and cover letter more professionally,” she said.
She signed up and was matched with Jane, who had decided she wanted to become a volunteer in addition to her employment with the Victorian State Government. “I think we were both quite shy at the beginning, it took us a while to work out the basis of our connection. But now it’s a kind of mutual connection,” says Jane.
Jane describes how the pair have continued to meet after completing the nine-month formal program. “We’ve maintained the boundaries that mmvllen set us up with. It’s just a very lovely connection and communication within those boundaries.”
“I really admire Farida. I like her humour, I really admire her resilience. It’s fabulous watching her grow and seize opportunities. And from the kinds of jobs that she’s got I can see other people see that in her too, which fills me with hope that there is no limit to where she can go and what she can do.”
Farida is now working part time while finishing a double degree. “The program is very important for young people. It pushes you and assists you in opening more doors,” she says.
She encourages people to get involved as a mentor. “Offer your time. You won’t know how you’re able to change someone’s life and assist them in getting where they want to be.”
Mmvllen is currently accepting applications from mentors and young people for our Youth Mentoring and Careers program. Visit our website for details.
A message of thanks from mmvllen
As we mark the twenty-first anniversary of operation for the Maribyrnong and Moonee Valley Local Learning and Employment Network (mmvllen), we would like to take a moment to acknowledge those who have worked with us over the years to support education, training, and employment for young people in our communities.
Since 2001, mmvllen’s work has hinged on bringing education, industry and community together to create positive futures for young people facing barriers to employment across Maribyrnong and Moonee Valley.
We owe a big thanks to all of the local employers who have partnered with us over the years. Their willingness to support work placements, industry tours and myriad other activities have given thousands of young people in Melbourne’s inner west an opportunity to expand their horizons and develop the skills and experience needed to make a confident start to their post-school lives.
Careers, VET and VCAL coordinators and principals have been key partners since day one, and we thank them for their years of open collaboration and dedication. Your care and attention to young people has never been more clearly on display than through the challenges wrought by COVID-19.
There are many other partners we have worked with over the years, from countless individual mentors to state and local government, TAFEs, registered and group training organisations. We applaud you all for the creativity and dedication you bring to working with and supporting young people.
And of course we thank young people in Maribyrnong and Moonee Valley for their trust. Your intelligence, energy and abilities are a constant inspiration.
In the coming months, we will be seeking to encouraging new employers to engage in Maribyrnong and Moonee Valley through a pledge drive. We encourage anyone who is interested in supporting local young people to visit mmvllen.org.au and read more about how you might get involved. Help us build opportunities for young people together.
- The mmvllen team
