Kick Start celebrates class of 2022

PAYCE Foundation social enterprise Kick Start has just completed another successful year, with 13 more young people graduating with TAFE hospitality qualifications and the confidence to get the best out of life.

The graduation class of 2022 proving one of the most successful groups in the training program’s history, with most of the class already securing jobs, including at the Blacktown Workers Club.

Sixty students (check) have graduated from the program which provides youth with training and mentoring.

Kick Start operates a fleet of mobile cafes on construction and logistics sites across Sydney where the students receive on-the-job training.

Corporate partners – which provide café sites and support – include Charter Hall, Frasers Property and the Winton Property Group.

PAYCE Foundation Director Dominic Sullivan said the Kick Start team had done an outstanding job this year.

“They’ve done a tremendous job giving young people the opportunity to get critical skills in hospitality and be job ready by the end of the program,” he said.

“The course results are quite stunning, with 87 per cent of graduates transitioning to further employment and 97 per cent in employment or further study six months after completing the course.”

Among those to graduate was Ugandan refugee Ruhanga Omusobozi, who has already started work at the Blacktown Workers Club.

His trainers say Ruhanga’s enthusiasm and dedication ensured he not only graduated but secured a job.

Ruhanga said he is thoroughly enjoying his new job, receiving experience in all aspects of hospitality at the club.

“I am really excited and learning a lot – I am really blessed to be there.”

Charter Hall’s ESG Manager – Industrial and Logistics Allan Tran said the company supported the program because of its outstanding results, with 97 per cent of graduates reporting improved job skills and opportunities.

“The other reason we support this initiative, which resonates a lot with me, is it provides trainees with hands-on experience and lifelong skills they can utilise, and take the learnings into their future careers.

This translates to empowering them to take control of their future.”