Work for the Dole works for Mark at St Johns.

Mark decided to undertake Work for the Dole voluntarily, and was placed in an activity arranged by Australian Work for the Dole Services. Read Mark’s story in his own words:

 

In October 2015 I returned to my home town of Adelaide after eight years of studying interstate and working abroad. In 2011 I graduated from UNSW with a Bachelor of Design, prior to living and working in Mexico for four years. On returning to Adelaide I found it extremely difficult to make contacts in the design industry and therefore difficult to gain employment, causing me to feel anxious to return to work and I slowly developed a low self-worth. However, after six months of unemployment I decided to take a proactive approach and sign up for the Work for the Dole program.

 

On the 11 May 2016 as part of the work for the dole program I stared working two days a week with St John SA as their graphic designer. This enabled me to obtain local work experience in the design field and further develop my skills. Instantly my overall feelings of self-worth heightened, as I began to contribute my time and abilities to help one of South Australia’s most trusted charities.

 

From the beginning I was treated with the upmost respect and definitely felt that my design knowledge and contributions were highly valued within the St John company. After two weeks of hard work and strong commitment to the charity I was offered full-time paid employment (under a six month contract).

 

I definitely believe I have the Work for the Dole Program, St John SA and Matchworks to thank for my success and highly recommend anyone looking for work to take up the program with full commitment to the job at hand, a positive attitude and an open mind to explore the professional opportunities that may arise. It is my suggestion that anyone facing unemployment for a prolonged period and looking for work in a particular field should use the resources available from their work placement agency – there are always more opportunities available than meet the eye!

 

For more information about this and other Work for the Dole Activities in the Adelaide Metropolitan area, contact Yevette Sweiderczuk, Regional Account Manager, Phone 0447 401 515 or email yevettes@awftd.com.au