SOURCING, finding, and securing work in Gladstone was made much easier for 12 migrant women last week when they graduated from Integreat Queensland’s Get Work Ready Program.

Integreat Queensland’s Get Work Ready program is designed to support migrant women to boost their employability and transition to employment.

Integreat Queensland Learning Facilitator Jaclyn Thompson said the association developed the program after several women came to them and shared their stories about how they were struggling to find employment locally despite having incredible skills, qualifications, and experience.

“The program assists participants to find work, navigate the hiring process, and integrate smoothly into the Australian workforce by giving them practical experience and guidance,” Jaclyn said.

“Participants learn workplace English, communication and interview skills, resume and cover letter writing, their rights and responsibilities at work, and Australian workplace culture, and more.”

One such participant Noha Fakhry who came to Australia with her family from Egypt in 2018 said even though she had strong experience as a Cost Control Accountant and Assistant Manager, including the Australian qualification of Cert III in Business Administration, she could still not find work.

“I tried to find a job, but I couldn’t,” Noha said.

“I faced many challenges such as a career change, better communications skills, and gaining work experience in Australia which was when I heard about Integreat Queensland’s Get Work Ready program. I decided to join the program because I believed it would upgrade my skills and open up job opportunities.”

Jaclyn said Integreat Queensland’s Get Work Ready program began in October 2021 and since then 38 participants have graduated with many of them, like Noha, finding work including opening up new doors to other pathways,” she said.

“The ultimate goal is for the women to secure work however, there also were participants for whom the program helped them realise they needed to engage in further studies to reach their desired outcomes, and we continue to assist them when needed,” she said.

Noah said when she came to Australia one of her goals was to find full time employment because she believes work brings life balance and now that she has found work she couldn’t be happier.

“When you work, you feel like you are important because you became a productive member in your family and the society,” she said.

“I have now secured work with a great local company, and I’m proud to be working with a fantastic team. I now feel I’m making a difference to my family and the community and I’m not only learning new things every day, but I’m expanding my networks, making new friends, and building on my work experience here in Australia.”

Picture: Noha Fakhry and Integreat Queensland Learning Facilitator Jaclyn Thompson.