The WAM program involves matching current students with disabilities (mentees) with people currently working in their discipline or a related field of endeavour (mentors). Previous employer mentors have included: ANZ, NAB, Vic Police, Law Institute, Arts Access Vic, the Vic Govt, a number of engineering companies. For further information, go to http://www.diversityrecruit-train.com.au/ or contact Mark Glascodine on 0419 578 098 or Julie Farthing on 0412 555305.
WAM is available on a fee-for-service basis across Australia for any job seeker or tertiary student who has a disability and is focused on making a career in a particular field. It is open to anyone with a disability, but has traditionally been taken up by university students and the fees paid by their university.
The WAM Program matches job seekers or tertiary students who have a disability with mentors in leading organisations in the job seekers or students’ field of interest for a series of 6-8 one- to two-hour meetings, so that mentees can::
- gather information about the work environment and expectations
- experience the workplace culture (e.g. attending staff meetings)
- network with people in their area of career interest
- refine their job search and interview skills
- learn how and when to disclose their disability and to open up discussions (e.g. to enable workplace modifications and integration into the workplace).
Comprehensive training is provided to mentors and mentees, and pairs are supported throughout the program. If matched with a mentor, you will be expected to participate in 6-8 face-to-face meetings over 2-3 months.
Timeline: WAM will operate in both Semester 1 and Semester 2, 2015.
January 27: Mentee applications open
20 March: Mentee applications close 5 pm to be considered for Semester 1 program
23-28 March: Mentor and Mentee briefing/training
April-June: Semester 1 mentoring period.