From construction to reconciliation: meet our 3 trainees who are being brave and making a change
Release date: 02 June 2022
At School Infrastructure NSW, we are committed to strengthening relationships with Aboriginal communities and organisations to create a brighter future for all children and young people.
The NSW Government Infrastructure Traineeship program is an important step in developing the skills and knowledge needed of young Aboriginal students to have a voice in self-determining their educational future, which will impact on the future prosperity of Aboriginal communities.
This National Reconciliation Week, we’re acknowledging the work of three young trainees who are gaining skills and experience in the construction industry, while also making a difference to their future and their communities. All three trainees come from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander backgrounds, and they are using their training to build a brighter future for everyone.
Bandala Farawell is determined to succeed.
“What has motivated me throughout my life is family, if I do become successful within construction, I would be able to provide financial support for my family and coming from a disadvantaged community and being from a minority, has made me more determined to succeed in construction and in my career path,” says Bandala.
Bandala is eager to see where the next year takes her, and she knows that the skills she's learned through her traineeship will be crucial in helping her reach her long-term goals.
“Being in this traineeship for one and half years has taught me to be confident and brave within myself.
“This program gives us the opportunity to remain within our community. It also allows us to create sustainable pathways and the financial benefits allow us to support our families,” says Bandala.
Jake Popovski's words echo the sentiments of many other young Aboriginal people who have benefitted from the traineeship program.
“It can get young Indigenous people to be in the workforce and gain that experience at an earlier age to further their development and career.”
“I’m lucky enough to have the opportunity to be able to work and learn and to be employed and motivated by making numerous connections with people at different workplaces and industries.”
Zacharey Hawke, another trainee who, like many others, may have never had the opportunity to enter into his chosen field without the help of specific programs designed to give young Aboriginal people a chance to succeed. "I wouldn't know about the traineeship if it wasn't offered to me," he says of the program he's currently enrolled in.
As these young men and women embark on their careers, they have some advice for those who are coming up behind them.
Zacharey emphasised the importance of taking “any opportunity that you get given because it can lead to better career paths and opportunities.”
Jake's advice is to approach every situation with confidence and "go in with your head held high and an open mind."
And Bandala tells young people to seek out local Indigenous companies to work with and “stay true with themselves and share culture with companies."
By gaining skills and experience in the construction industry, these three trainees are playing an important role in being brave and making change for themselves, and all Australians.
