UNIQ You is proud to announce an important new partnership with national non profit organisation CareerTrackers to facilitate Indigenous engagement with the soon-to-be-launched platform.
Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Peoples have had an ongoing relationship with science, engineering and problem solving that dates back thousands of years, yet just one in 200 Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people of working age have a STEM degree. CareerTrackers works to change these narratives and has seen great success through the High School Program and Women’s Mentoring Programs.
Laura Berry, CEO of Supply Nation and UNIQ You Advisory Board member, is excited to see Indigenous girls included in the conversations designed to redress the imbalance within the industries identified to be most under-represented by women: “I’m thrilled to see UNIQ You and CareerTrackers partnering with such a strong focus on the education to employment pipeline, showcasing the opportunities and pathways available to girls as they approach further study and entry into the workforce”, she states.
“As we look to implement wider targets on career pathways and workplace internships for Indigenous job-seekers, this partnership ensures that the accessibility for all girls, including our amazing Indigenous students, is top of mind.”
“CareerTrackers has a long history of supporting young First Nations women in the STEM industry through the High School Program, work shadow opportunities, multi-year paid internships, and engagement with CSIRO’s Young Indigenous Women in STEM Academy. The collaborative partnership with UNIQ You and our High School Program will enable us to continue on this journey of supporting young women through ongoing support, exposure to industry leaders and STEM mentors” – Executive Director, Jennifer Elliott – CareerTrackers.
Temeka Johnson, proud Yambina Woman, Social Performance Specialist at Origin Energy and UNIQ You advisor, is excited to draw from her experiences to be a catalyst in girls’ lives:
“By sharing my knowledge about career opportunities, I hope to showcase to girls, and in particular Indigenous girls, that there are so many different journeys they could take. Some they may never have heard of, or thought would be available to them. I’ve learnt so much by taking chances and having the strength to follow the unknown to new adventures” she said.
“I wish UNIQ YOU was around when I was in school and looking at future career pathways. I believe the benefit from talking to women in real-life roles sharing their knowledge and experience, would have really made a difference, and I can’t wait to be part of this inspiring program”.
UNIQ You is committed to driving change by promoting equitable access. To support the belief that Indigenous girls and women belong in all professional spaces, the platform incorporates features designed to increase Indigenous visibility and a 5% Indigenous student participation target has been set.
About CareerTrackers
The CareerTrackers High School Program was established to accelerate Indigenous students’ high school completion, university enrolment and participation in successive internship opportunities. The Program leverages their incredible network of employment partners, university partners, and programs in schools to deliver pre-university training and paid work that equips students with an income, relevant skills, and a support system to strengthen their transition from school into university and a professional career.