Enterprise Franklin Development Trust, in cooperation with funding from Ministry of Social Development's Enterprising Communities created a programme in 2007 to link young people who wanted to work in the automotive industry with employers.
Over the past 18 months, twenty unemployed youth have been referred to the programme by social agencies or by self-referral. Eight were successfully placed with local automotive employers, four found other work, four started apprenticeships or study, and four withdrew from registration.
Local employers who have been involved with Youth2Work have been pleasantly surprised at the keen attitudes of the young people they have met and hired.
Calem Withers of Classic Auto Body Panel and Paint Ltd said “I had not really hired many young people. Once they realise what’s involved and how hard the work is, many don’t pursue it further.” However with 16 yr old Jaden Hohepa, he relates a very different experience. “Jaden wrote to me and included a reference. I was impressed that he had obviously taken a lot of initiative himself to pursue employment, and that he suggested doing some work experience first. He is working out really well and is fitting in with the team”, said Calem.
Jaden was keen to work in the industry, and after delivering letters to paint shops, he approached Work and Income about carpainting jobs. They referred Jaden to Enterprise Franklin. EFDT explained the Youth2Work programme, and linked Jaden with Calem Withers. It has been a very successful outcome. “I am really happy that Calem has given me a job and am loving it,” said Jaden.
Lynne says that Jaden is a typical example of the keen type of young person she has been assisting, and that it has been a rewarding experience for everyone involved.
Above: Jaden Hohepa and Calem Withers at Classic Auto Body Panel and Paint