Young dad finds his drive to support family and community

Jacob had only just moved to Rockhampton when he found out he was going to be a dad at age 16. Confronted by a lack of job opportunities and financial pressures, the added need to provide for his family was almost overwhelming.

“When I first found out we were pregnant, I literally went straight into the mindset of needing to find a job. I needed to keep a roof over my family’s head, food on the table, all of that. It’s all I could think about. It was a lot of pressure because I kept getting knocked back. I had a pretty good resume and I was only going for entry level jobs. It was challenging, but you know, I kept just pushing forward,” Jacob said.

With a limited work history and the time constraints that come with being a new parent, Jacob wasn’t sure how he’d ever secure himself a stable job. Without a driver’s licence or dependable transport options, his limited prospects were weighing heavily and affecting his motivation.

When IntoJobs (part of the IntoWork Group) referred Jacob to the Launch into Work program – delivered by Kick It Out – it not only introduced him to local networks but also helped him feel more connected to his community and the value he could bring.

Jacob found that establishing a routine and finding some stability were translating into a more manageable and enjoyable life at home. A proud young First Nations man, Jacob was also driven by the idea that secure employment could help him give back to his family and his community.

“I’ve recently taken my younger sister into my care. I’m showing her my routines and how I got to where I am now. I’ve got more to learn but I’ve still got a lot to pass on. That’s the thing I love. Sharing that knowledge. I don’t understand how other people don’t think the same way.”

The Launch into Work program is designed to deliver pre-employment opportunities through training, mentoring and work experience with the aim of creating long-term employment. IntoJobs also helped address Jacob’s transport barriers by providing him with an electric scooter to get to and from the program and eventually to work.

“It helped build my confidence. The chance to connect with people. I don’t even know Rockhampton that well. I’ve got no family up here so to make those connections was good,” Jacob said.

Now 19, Jacob’s impressive commitment to the Launch into Work program soon led to him being offered a job with Kick it Out – helping other young people build confidence and skills in preparation for looking for work. IntoJobs Mobile Employment Consultant, Lydia Howe says since he started working, his motivation has skyrocketed.

“It’s been a joy to watch the transformation in Jacob since he connected with our program. His intelligence, humour and inquisitive nature really started to shine,” she said.

“He’s definitely going places. With his enthusiasm, the will to work hard and his drive to help others, we have no doubt that Jacob is destined for a bright and rewarding future.”