The collaboration between the Salaam Foundation and Deakin University’s Centre for Refugee Employment, Advocacy, Training, and Education (CREATE) represents a significant step towards addressing the employment challenges faced by refugee graduates in Australia. This partnership is centred around the Graduate Careers Clinics program, a groundbreaking initiative that equips young refugees with the tools and confidence they need to successfully navigate the Australian job market.
The transition from university to employment is challenging for any graduate, but for those from refugee backgrounds, these challenges are often compounded by language barriers, lack of local work experience, and limited professional networks. Research indicates that refugees face higher unemployment rates compared to other population groups in Australia. Programs like the Graduate Careers Clinics are crucial in bridging these gaps and ensuring that refugee graduates are not left behind.
The Graduate Careers Clinics are designed to provide a holistic approach to career development. Over an eight-week period, mentees—who are recent or soon-to-be university graduates from refugee backgrounds—are paired with experienced mentors who guide them through various aspects of career planning and job search strategies. Each week, participants engage in interactive Zoom sessions that cover essential topics such as career adaptability, CV development, interview techniques, and networking skills. These sessions are complemented by one-on-one mentorship, where mentees receive personalised advice and support from their mentors.
The mentee-mentor relationship is at the heart of the program’s success. Mentors, who are professionals with a deep understanding of the Australian employment landscape, provide mentees with valuable insights into industry-specific expectations and practices. This relationship not only helps mentees refine their job search strategies but also boosts their confidence and morale, which are often key determinants of success in the job market.
Since its inception, the Graduate Careers Clinics have had a profound impact on the lives of refugee graduates. To date, 32 mentees have completed the program, with many securing employment or advancing in their studies. The program’s effectiveness is reflected in the feedback from participants, who highlight the practical benefits of the clinics and the lasting relationships formed with their mentors.
For instance, one mentee shared, “My mentor gave me helpful advice and strategies for succeeding in my current job. She was motivating and supportive, which I think is especially valuable for someone without a job (keeping their morals and confidence up).” Another mentee noted, “The clinic is very helpful, especially the topics on CV writing, LinkedIn and interviews. It really helped me a lot.”
The positive outcomes of the Graduate Careers Clinics extend beyond individual success stories. By empowering refugee graduates to enter the workforce, the program contributes to the broader goal of building a more inclusive and diverse Australian society. Employment is a key factor in successful settlement and integration, and by supporting refugees in securing meaningful employment, the Salaam Foundation and Deakin CREATE are helping to foster social cohesion and reduce economic disparities.
Moreover, the program has a ripple effect, as successful mentees often become role models within their communities, inspiring others to pursue education and employment opportunities. This not only enhances the prospects of individual refugees but also strengthens the social and economic fabric of their communities.
While the Graduate Careers Clinics have been successful, there are ongoing challenges that need to be addressed. One of the primary challenges is ensuring the sustainability of the program and expanding its reach to more refugee graduates across Australia. Funding and resources are critical to maintaining the quality of the program and supporting additional mentees.
Looking ahead, the Salaam Foundation and Deakin CREATE aim to build on the success of the clinics by exploring opportunities for collaboration with other educational institutions and employers. Expanding the program’s network of mentors and industry partners will be crucial in providing mentees with more diverse opportunities and experiences.
The partnership between the Salaam Foundation and Deakin CREATE exemplifies the transformative power of targeted support programs for refugee graduates. Through the Graduate Careers Clinics, these organisations are not only helping individuals achieve their career aspirations but also contributing to a more inclusive and equitable society. As the program continues to grow, it will undoubtedly play a key role in shaping the future of Australia’s workforce.
For more information and to learn more about the Salaam Foundation, visit their website here.
In 2024, TEDxSydney received funding from Creative Australia through the Australian Cultural Fund. This funding was generously provided by the Salaam Foundation who support organisations and community groups and their grassroots initiatives, believing that strong, inclusive communities are the foundation for positive change
