How one Sunbury employer is opening doors for young people through Transition to Work

Good employment outcomes often start with the right connection, and a good employer to match it.

Through Opendoor’s Transition to Work (TtW) program, we build relationships with local businesses that want to back young people. Victor from Vic’s Food & Wine in Sunbury is one of them.

Two TtW participants, Aden and Eden, joined Victor’s team and got hands-on experience in a real workplace. They came to Opendoor at different stages, but both had done the groundwork and were ready for the next step. Victor took it from there. He trained them, showed them how the business runs and stuck with them while they found their feet.

What is Transition to Work?

Transition to Work is an Australian Government program for young people aged 15 to 24 who want to find work or get into education or training. Participants get intensive pre-employment support to build practical skills, find local job opportunities and connect with services in their community. Find out more about Opendoor’s Transition to Work program.

Aden’s journey

When Aden first came to Opendoor, he had an idea of the industry he wanted to work in, but wasn’t confident about the pathway to get there. He needed support building his resume, sharpening his job applications, and preparing for interviews.

Working closely with his Youth Coach, Aden rebuilt his resume, learned to tailor his applications to each role, and worked on his interview skills. He attended job expos, took part in reverse marketing sessions, and put himself forward for opportunities he might once have doubted himself for.

That work paid off. Aden landed a role at Vic’s Food & Wine and continues to work there today. He’s also started looking into business and accounting courses, working towards a longer term goal in that field.

“Opendoor has always kept my goals and future in mind. The support has been invaluable, and I would highly recommend their services.” — Aden

Eden’s journey

Eden came to Opendoor wanting support to build his confidence, set short and long term goals, and prepare for the workforce.

He started by joining a wellbeing focused program in Sunbury, which gave him tools to look after himself and think through what he wanted from his future. From there, Opendoor worked with Eden on his resume, his interview skills, and his employability, and supported him through a Coffee Barista course to build his skills further.

Opendoor then connected Eden with Victor at Vic’s Food & Wine, where he secured a role he still enjoys today. Support didn’t stop once he was employed. Opendoor stayed in touch, checked in on his progress, and helped him enrol in university and apply for a concession, as he worked towards his longer term goal of a career in graphic design.

When Eden’s time with Opendoor came to an end, his Employment and Education Mentor, Tayla, went with him to his first appointment with his new provider, to make the handover as smooth as possible.

“Opendoor has honestly made such a positive impact on my life. They supported me through finding work, building my confidence, and working towards my future goals. I’m grateful for all the help and support I’ve received along the way.” – Eden

The right support