Sonder recognised as a Highly Commended Finalist at South Australian Governor’s Multicultural Awards
Sonder has been recognised in the Governor’s Multicultural Awards as a Highly Commended Finalist for the Community Sector Award for its Employment Solutions program.
The Governor’s Multicultural Awards recognise and celebrate outstanding South Australians who promote multiculturalism and increase understanding of the benefits of cultural diversity in our community.
Sonder’s Executive Manager for Community Services, Tania Manser was presented the award by Her Excellency the Honourable Frances Adamson AC, Governor of South Australia in a ceremony at Government House on Thursday 9 March.
Sonder’s Employment Solutions program has provided integrated employment and wellbeing support for migrants and refugees since 2019, funded by the Australian Government Department of Social Services.
With a lack of Australian work experience and local contacts, language barriers, feelings of isolation, poor mental health, possible trauma exposure, and the many stresses associated with adjusting to a new country, it is unsurprising that the unemployment rate among the migrant and refugee population is 2% higher than the national average.
Sonder’s Employment Solutions program has been designed to provide migrants and refugees with the specialised support they need to overcome these barriers and find meaningful, fulfilling employment. The program’s Career Coaches guide clients along the entire journey toward employment, working with them to have their overseas skills recognised, identify jobs that interest them, write resumes and cover letters, prepare for interviews, help manage the requirements of Centrelink and Job Service Providers and speak with employers to work through any challenges that may arise.
Whilst the program’s Wellbeing Coaches work to address any mental health challenges that the clients may be experiencing and provide tailored support that considers each person’s diverse values, beliefs, and cultural practices.
To date, the program has facilitated a total of 643 job placements, 283 training or education placements and 1,745 mental health appointments to over 280 individuals.
Ms Manser said the organisation was humbled to be recognised at the prestigious awards.
“Employment Solutions is Australia’s first employment service that has been specifically designed for migrants and refugees that provides integrated mental health and vocational support.”
“Whilst mainstream employment services can support the general population, migrants and refugees who call Australia home sadly often fall through the cracks and miss out on opportunities to improve their skills and secure sustainable careers due to the specialised support they require.”
“Employment Solutions fills this gap and also acts as a gateway for migrants and refugees to access additional services to address any other needs.”
“Unfortunately, funding for this unique and essential program comes to an end shortly, leaving this important population group without the support they require.”
We therefore need your help! We are seeking support from interested parties to be involved in helping us to sustain this valuable program. Join us in making a difference in the lives of many individuals who are keen to engage and meaningfully contribute to society through employment. If you are interested in providing support, please contact Tania Manser directly via email at tmanser@sonder.net.au
For more information about Sonder’s Employment Solutions program, visit sonder.net.au/employment-solutions or contact Sonder on (08) 8209 0700