Phil Recognised for His Dedication to Supporting Young People
Congratulations to Phil Poutasi, MatchWorks Employment Engagement Partner, who was recently named a finalist in the Child Friendly Excellence Awards with Mission Australia, recognising his incredible work supporting youth across the Inala–Ipswich regions in Queensland.
Phil has dedicated his career to helping young people reach their full potential, overcome barriers, and find employment that aligns with their goals and interests. He works across several programs, including Skilling Queenslanders for Work (SQW) – an initiative that assists disadvantaged Queenslanders to gain the skills, qualifications and experience to enter and stay in a job.
Within SQW, Phil has played a key role in the neurodiverse Get Set for Work program, helping participants build confidence and prepare for meaningful employment. Most recently, he has stepped into the role of trainer for the Youth Skills program, which supports vulnerable youth who have been linked with corrections or are at risk of offending.
Through his work with the Disability Employment Services (DES) team—now continuing under the new Inclusive Employment Australia contract—along with his collaboration with Logan Youth Justice, Phil has built strong partnerships that support young people involved with correctional services to take positive steps toward their future.
When asked what he finds most rewarding about his work, Phil said:
“Being the person they can call consistent in their lives… being a voice for them and showing them that there are people out there like them who make it through the other side.”
Phil’s approach is grounded in authenticity and empathy.
“Being real, having life experiences similar to theirs, and most importantly, listening without judgement,” he said, when asked how he builds trust with those he supports.
Many of the young people Phil works with face significant barriers, such as homelessness, addiction, domestic violence, legal issues and unemployment, but his consistent support helps them find hope and direction. He regularly sees powerful outcomes, from a shift in mindset to employment and lifestyle changes.
“The work we do now, while they are young, may change the course of their lives,” Phil said.
Phil admits he feels “embarrassed and humbled” by the recognition, but for those who know him, it’s well deserved. His passion, persistence and genuine care have made a lasting difference to countless young people in the community.
Phil’s work is a shining example of genU’s commitment to empowering young people through education, employment and genuine connection – helping them build brighter, more independent futures.
Image: left to right – Phil Poutasi & Margie Nightingale (Local MP for Inala, QLD)
Image: Phil pictured (right) with SQW participant