Our stories

Building a just society means elevating everyone by supporting all people to reach their full potential. Every success story is crucial because none of us can flourish, until we all do.

Volunteering at Ignite Café ‘a privilege’ for Chee Ming
- 16 October 2023
Chee Ming was food shopping at Melbourne’s Queen Victoria Market when she stumbled on an employment-help stall staffed by Jesuit Social Services. After hearing about her interest in hospitality, Jesuit Social Services connected Chee Ming to Ignite Café, our social enterprise café where people experiencing barriers to employment and training can come to build skills and…
New job puts Behnaz’s analytical mind to good use
- 18 September 2023
Behnaz* is a qualified engineer but hadn’t secured a role in the industry since her previous role as an academic back in 2015. Originally from Iran, Behnaz came to Australia seeking asylum and has struggled to feel accepted in society. Behnaz’s JVES mentor, Gillian, says, “there seemed to be a real cultural resistance to integrating…
JVES makes a "dream come true" for Biruk
- 16 September 2023
After over 30 unsuccessful job applications and no luck with a Job Active service, Biruk* was losing hope and thought of giving up his dreams of working as an electrician. Eventually, friends recommended that he connect with Jesuit Social Services’ Jobs Victoria Employment Service program, which assisted him with his resume, job search training, and…
Police pathway program to help Aboriginal officers serve community
- 15 September 2023
Raza Rind knew from childhood he wanted to be a police officer – inspired by a police officer uncle who would share stories and tips with the then 10-year-old Yamatji boy on camping trips in Western Australia’s rural mid-west. “He would say, ‘you wear the uniform, you represent the community, not just the force’,” said…
Trainer Tessa empowers participants to overcome self-doubt and find employment
- 14 September 2023
As a Jesuit Community College trainer, Tessa has had the privilege of seeing her former students find employment in many areas including nursing, teaching, administration and the arts. The employment course supports participants to build the practical skills, mindset and confidence needed to find meaningful work.
Accompanying people on their path to employment
- 13 September 2023
Hear how our Education, Training and Employment team have navigated funding cuts to the Jobs Victoria Employment Services (JVES) program, exploring new ways to find pathways to employment for people who face significant barriers to social and economic inclusion.
Victoria Police’s ‘most diverse squad yet’ graduates Academy
- 11 September 2023
Three of Victoria Police’s newest constables have found their place in their squad thanks to the support of Jesuit Social Services’ diversity program – graduating last week as members of the Victoria Police Academy’s most culturally diverse group yet. Twenty-four Academy graduates from 10 cultural and linguistic backgrounds were sworn in before their families and…
How music connects hearts in grief and helps in healing
- 9 June 2023
When musician and anthropologist Glenn McDonald’s mum passed away from suicide in 2011, music played an important part in his recovery. His mum encouraged a love of music from an early age, and since her loss, Glenn has used music to help connect with her, through songs she used to play. Music has also been…
Empowering young people on the path to recovery through connection to nature
- 8 June 2023
The Outdoor Experience utilises a Bush Adventure Therapy to supports young people struggling with substance abuse and mental health. Learn how the program empowers participants to move forward on their journey to recovery.
Open Pantry helping provide food security and connection
- 7 June 2023
Hear how Open Pantry delivers healthy meals and community for the Western Sydney residents.

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