On Wednesday, 5th July 2023, an auspicious event occurred at the Centacare Employment and Training (Centacare) as we had the privilege of hosting the highly anticipated Connecting Up Program launch. Special guests, key stakeholders, and the Minister for Training, the Honorable Simone McGurk MLA, came together to participate in this remarkable event, which aimed to celebrate and officially launch the program. The Connecting Up Program is a groundbreaking initiative to support migrants and humanitarian entrants to integrate into the vibrant West Australian community.  

The event commenced with a heartfelt Welcome to Country address delivered by Brett Collard, acknowledging the land’s traditional owners and paying respects to their elders, past, present, and emerging. This powerful acknowledgment set the tone for an event promoting inclusivity, collaboration, and cultural understanding.  

Following the Welcome to Country, the CEO of Centacare, Lee-Anne Phillips, delivered inspiring speeches, highlighting the program’s significance and expressing gratitude to the partners, stakeholders, and supporters who had contributed to its conception. Centacare’s Connecting Up Program Coordinator, Donna Stones, talked about Centacare’s commitment to empowering individuals and fostering a sense of belonging within the community.

The event’s highlight was when the Minister, the Honourable Simone McGurk, presented Centacare with a certificate from Lotterywest—a moment that symbolised the recognition and support from the wider community. Lotterywest’s contribution to the Connecting Up Program demonstrated its commitment to investing in initiatives that promote social cohesion, education, and integration.  

The Connecting Up Program is a collaborative effort between Centacare and the West Australian Catholic Migrant and Refugee Office (WACMRO), with crucial support from a Lotterywest grant. This free educational program aims to provide individualised support to migrants and humanitarian entrants, assisting them in developing the skills necessary for successful integration into the West Australian community.  

The program aims to empower participants by addressing their unique needs and challenges through individualised mentoring and practical guidance. By providing access to language training, vocational support, and cultural orientation, the program equips migrants and humanitarian entrants with the tools they need to build a solid foundation for their new lives in Australia.  

One of the key objectives of the Connecting Up Program is to create a welcoming and inclusive environment where participants feel supported and encouraged to engage with the community actively. By offering a range of services, such as assistance with employment, education, and social connections, the program helps individuals navigate the often complex process of settling into a new country.  

The launch event was an invaluable opportunity for stakeholders to gain firsthand insight into the program’s objectives, benefits, and alignment with Centacare’s broader mission. It provided a platform for meaningful conversations, collaboration, and networking among attendees who share the goal of promoting diversity, social inclusion, and empowerment.  

The Connecting Up Program Launch event at the Centacare West Perth site was a resounding success. It celebrated the program’s inception and highlighted the dedication and commitment of all those involved. With the support of the Minister, Lotterywest, WACMRO, Red Cross, and the wider community, the Connecting Up Program has the potential to make a significant and lasting impact on the lives of migrants and humanitarian entrants, fostering a more inclusive and cohesive society in Western Australia.  

For more information about the Connecting Up program or to register your interest, Click Here.