Connecting local jobseekers with opportunities
A collaborative information event for jobseekers linked to genU has been hailed a success and highlighted the mutual benefits of in-person events in the Geelong region.
MatchWorks, a genU division, hosted the ‘All About U’ Expo held on Tuesday 18 February in Geelong to allow MatchWorks participants to gain an understanding of the breadth of job and training opportunities available locally.
genU CEO Clare Amies said about 50 participants welcomed the opportunity to speak to about 30 stakeholders from 15 local services and training providers, including genU Training, to learn more about what each organisation offered.
“Stallholder feedback was universally positive,” Ms Amies said. “They reported steady engagement, valuable enquiries, and great connections with both participants and other community organisations.
“Importantly, a number of participants were linked directly with support services on the day, which was one of the multiple benefits of having everyone in the same place.
“There was no shortage of enthusiasm from local services to be involved, and this has only been enhanced due to the success of the expo.”
Ms Amies said as a leading provider of disability employment services, MatchWorks was continually seeking ways to create positive outcomes for jobseekers.
“Along with the disability expo fairs MatchWorks have been playing an integral role in organising in Geelong, these types of events align with the genU vision of building genuinely inclusive communities,” she said.
MatchWorks participant Jesse was interested in learning about potential job opportunities. Due to his empathetic nature, Jesse is keen to explore counselling, potentially with a youth focus.
“I want to help others and give people stability in today’s world and help implement health and well-being supports for those who aren’t as fortunate as others,” he said.
Jesse described the ‘All About U’ Expo as a “great initiative” for participants to be able to introduce themselves and potentially find leads.
“Today [the expo] is what you make of it, and every day is a new challenge,” Jesse said.
“There is so much opportunity at days like this, and it also helps with individual growth and creates a sense of being in the community.”
You can find out how MatchWorks can support your employment goals on the Job Seekers page.
