MatchWorks and Geelong Cats have collaborated to deliver a special employment program for young job seekers in the Geelong region.

Twenty-five young job seekers participated in the Cats Match program to improve their physical and mental health and wellbeing and to learn employability related skills. They will officially graduate from the program on June 2.

Participants have been assisted throughout the 10-week program with resumes and applications, interview techniques and securing employment, as well as addressing other barriers they may have faced previously in entering the workforce. Guest speakers have included local employers, apprenticeship providers and welfare services.

MatchWorks Executive Director Renae Lowry said the program, which started on March 24, has achieved fantastic results with 11 job seekers placed into employment and a further five going through the interview stages.

“Cats Match participants have been learning valuable skills required to find them lasting and meaningful employment. The employability sessions delivered by MatchWorks covered business and social etiquette, increased self-awareness and transferrable skills, developing routines, makeovers and presentation for work, interview skills, modern recruitment practices and much more,” she said.

“The program has also assisted participants to improve their physical and mental health with Geelong Cats stepping in to conduct the health and wellbeing sessions, which had a focus on empowering young people to make good choices.”