In a wonderful example of collaboration and community-led impact, Cultura, CatholicCare Victoria, and the War on Waste Cartel have come together to launch a pilot project designed to create employment pathways for refugee and multicultural women.
Backed by a $45,000 Give Where You Live Foundation Seed & Catalyst grant, this initiative is shaping up to be more than just an employment program.
The project aims to build confidence, connection, and capability by establishing a local sewing hub that provides real-world work experience. Partnering with small-scale manufacturers, participants will develop hands-on sewing skills while repurposing upcycled hessian coffee sacks into reusable bags.
This initiative goes beyond sewing. Participants will be supported to learn foundational business skills, explore pathways into employment, or launch their own microbusiness ventures.
Brooke Hyland, Head of GROW at the Give Where You Live Foundation, said the initiative is a promising example of what place-based partnerships can achieve.
“Women from refugee and multicultural communities face complex barriers to employment, from language and transport, to systemic exclusion. This program creates a safe and supportive environment where they can gain practical skills, build networks, and take meaningful steps toward financial independence.”