Great job and top award for Joanna
15 November 2010
MatchWorks job seeker Joanna Weeku is not only working and helping her community, she has also been recognised at the highest level for her success in learning.
Joanna has managed to overcome many obstacles to get to where she is today – the winner of the Victorian Adult Community Education Outstanding Learner Award 2010.
Joanna has spent most of her life living in refugee camps.
She came to Australia from Burma four years ago with her three children. Unable to speak much English and without a job – the Werribee resident was facing an uncertain future.
However, she became involved with the Werribee Community Centre, which gave her a place to connect with other people with similar life stories to her own.
Through MatchWorks, Joanna got the opportunity to take classes in English, hospitality and computers.
MatchWorks Werribee staff members Mike Crnojevic and Stana Markovic have worked closely with Joanna to achieve her goal of gaining employment.
“Joanna really enjoyed volunteering at the Werribee Community Centre, so we approached them to employ her,” Mike said.
“She is now working in the kitchen three days a week supervising 20 students.
“Joanna is thriving, her confidence has continued to grow and she has just reached her 26-week employment milestone.
“Stana and I are both very proud to see Joanna recognised for her tremendous efforts.”
Joanna received a $4000 scholarship, which she will use to continue her hospitality studies.
“I’m just so happy to win the award. It has been really good for my confidence,” Joanna said.
“I have learnt so many things since I have been here and I really enjoy working in the kitchen. I have made many great friends.”