The Huddle’s aim to find meaningful employment and career opportunities for disengaged youth has been boosted by the announcement of another $1.15M pledge, on top of the already $90M Jobs Victoria Employment Network (JVEN) program.

The announced by Minister of Industry and Employment, Ben Carroll, brought a smile to the face of North defender and AFL multicultural ambassador, Majak Daw.

“We work on bringing young people into The Huddle and want to make sure that they learn, grow, and belong,” Daw said.

“I think that this program and partnership will help young people feel that they are part of a community and will prepare them to go out into society and the work place with confidence.”

The program works in conjunction with The Huddle and the Brotherhood of Saint Laurence and has already made a difference to the lives of many young people from diverse backgrounds.  

“Jobs Victoria is making sure no one falls through the cracks because everyone, regardless of their background, has the right to share in our strong economy,” Carroll announced.

“Young people will drive the economic future of Victoria, so we’re backing them to get their start through a good job.”

During his visit to Arden St, the Minster was escorted by Daw, North managing director and CEO Carl Dilena, and AFLW superstar Emma Kearney,  and met several youths that had already found employment through JVEN.

One of those was Hamdi Mohamed, who came to Australia seven years ago from Somalia and is now employed by the football club. 

Mohamed learned English at The Huddle and still says it’s where she feels most at home.