In The Media
latest news from the skill engineer ltd
Successful e-scooter program jeopardised by funding lack
The Skill Engineer Ltd. in Broome, WA, transforms lives with hands-on training, but its program faces critical funding challenges threatening its future.
In Broome, Western Australia, The Skill Engineer Ltd. is transforming the lives of youth involved in the criminal justice system and those with poor school attendance
In less than 12 months, this unique social enterprise has reshaped the futures of 60 participants through hands-on engineering, rural skills training, bush barber services, and a vibrant youth-led coffee shop.
CEO of The Skill Engineer Ltd., Maggie MacFie, explains, “Our participants include non-school attenders and street-present youth, some of whom, although enrolled, have not attended school for up to two years. Many face challenges such as homelessness, domestic violence, drug and substance abuse, and household overcrowding.”
“Of the 60 participants from 2023 to 2024, 25% secured full-time or part-time employment, another 25% returned to school, and the rest benefit from Transition to Work and Reconnect initiatives or alternate learning options such as TAFE.”
“Through pastoral care, wrap-around support, and engagement in projects like crafting their own e-scooter and developing vocational skills, we have achieved staggering success.”
“What began as a program to re-engage youth in education post-COVID-19 has highlighted the need for meaningful activities for hundreds of Broome youth needing extra support to improve their prospects outside traditional educational models.”
Despite its success, The Skill Engineer Ltd. faces a critical challenge due to short-term and insufficient funding, jeopardising the social and economic outcomes for at risk youth in the region.
“As our current funding ends in 2025, we are actively seeking additional support to sustain and expand our efforts,” she adds. “Without sustainable funding, we cannot continue to run this valuable program.”
“We know it works. We’re witnessing firsthand the impact on our participants, some of whom haven’t left their homes in up to six months but now attend daily.”
“We’re actively engaging with their families, coming in contact with cousins and siblings also at home or on the streets, desperately needing meaningful activities and the right support services to enhance their well-being and increase their social and civic participation,” explains MacFie.
The Skill Engineer Ltd. currently relies on funding from small grants and philanthropic donations to run its program and is actively seeking additional funds to continue in 2025. Enrolments for 2024 are full, with many participants on the waiting list.
For more information, or for an interview with program participants or CEO please contact Charlotte Dickie on 0432 806 041 or charlotte.dickie@theskillengineer.com.au.
A Celebration of Youth and Community – SoundSoul Event Draws Over 200 Attendees in Lake Munmorah
A Celebration of Youth and Community – SoundSoul Event Draws Over 200 Attendees in Lake Munmorah
The Central Coast, NSW – April 19, 2024 – The Skill Engineer Ltd. proudly hosted the SoundSoul event on Friday, April 19th, 2024. Held as part of Youth Week NSW, this all ages event brought together the vibrant energies of youth and families in Lake Munmorah and surrounding areas on the Central Coast.
Featuring the undeniable talents of Triple J unearthed legends, Pilot Buffalo, alongside an array of local performers and community services, SoundSoul was a huge success, drawing in more than 200 attendees. The event aimed to foster social inclusion and provide engaging activities for youth and families in areas where such opportunities are limited.
“We could not have anticipated the overwhelming response to SoundSoul,” said Sharon Aldrick Creative Coordinator at The Skill Engineer Ltd. “With over 220 people in attendance, it was a testament to the collaborative efforts of our partners and the enthusiasm of the community.”
SoundSoul was made possible through the generous support and participation of fifteen local services, including Song Lab, yspace Central Coast, the Central Coast Council, among others, alongside dedicated youth volunteers. Their contributions ensured a diverse and enriching experience for all attendees.
The event kicked off with a series of performances and workshops, including soul-stirring sets by Jack Crouch, Maya Simpson, UV Ultraviolet Band, and Oli Byrnes, among others. Attendees were treated to a DJ workshop led by Cody, followed by an a stellar performance by Pilot Buffalo to close out the event.
“It was truly a joyous day for all involved,” added Sharon Aldrick. “The smiles and positive energy radiating from the participants underscored the impact of events like SoundSoul in our community.”
SoundSoul not only provided entertainment but also served as a platform for connection and empowerment, reinforcing the importance of community engagement and support for youth initiatives. The overwhelming feedback received from partners and attendees alike has sparked discussions of future collaborations to continue fostering a vibrant and inclusive community on the northern part of the Central Coast.
SoundSoul was made possible through the generous support and participation of 15 local services, including
- Song Lab
- Skilled Creative and Digi Van
- yspace Central Coast
- Central Coast Youth Services
- We Are Uniting
- Links Youth Support Services
- headspace Lake Haven
- Gamble Aware
- Samaritans Foundation
- Table Church
- Uniting Rapt
- Interrelate
- the Y
- Omnia Inclusive Employment Solutions
- Mosaic Multicultural Connections
- Central Coast Council
SoundSoul was made possible through funding provided by the NSW Government’s Youth Opportunities program.
For media inquiries or further information, please contact:
Charlotte Dickie: 0432 806 041
SoundSoul NSW Youth Week event set to go off
Central Coast, Australia – 22 Mar, 2024 – The Skill Engineer Ltd. and Skilled Creative are excited to announce their collaboration on SoundSoul, an event designed to empower Central Coast youth through music, art, and culture.
Scheduled for Friday, 19th April Colongra Bay Hall, SoundSoul will feature the headline performance by Pilot Buffalo, Triple J Unearthed band from the Central Coast. This event, a part of National Youth Week, promises an afternoon of energy and excitement.
Led by young people aged 12 to 25, SoundSoul offers more than just entertainment. Youth coordinators behind the scenes will have the unique opportunity to engage in electronic music production, recording, and mixing, all while learning from industry mentors.
Mike McCarthy, Director of Skilled Creative, emphasises the significance of reaching out to youth in isolated areas, providing them with access to valuable skills within the music industry.
“This project is about giving our youth the chance to explore their talents and passions in a supportive environment,” says McCarthy. “SoundSoul is not just a concert; it’s a platform for growth and self-discovery.”
The event, proudly drug-and-alcohol-free, will showcase a diverse lineup of talent, including Pilot Buffalo, UV Ultra Violet, and a vibrant hip-hop artist.
In addition to the musical performances, attendees can immerse themselves in various activities such as a drumming circle, art exhibitions, and interactive games.
SoundSoul is a collaborative effort supported by the Northern Lakes Neighbourhood Centre and numerous youth services, including the Central Coast Council, the Y, and Uniting, offering diverse resources and information.
“We’re excited to be part of such a meaningful youth event that brings together music, art, and community,” expresses McCarthy.
SoundSoul is made possible through the generous funding provided by the NSW Government Youth Opportunities program.
For more information please contact Sharon Aldrick on 049302 2106 or sharon.aldrick@theskillengineer.com.au .
For event info and RSVP please visit: ttps://www.facebook.com/events/1115595539467944/
Acknowledgement
We acknowledge the traditional owners of this land, the Darkinjung, Pangerang and Yawuru peoples and pay respects to their elders past and present. We thank them for sharing their country, their culture and their language.We look to the future with hope as we walk side by side with our First Nations people in the spirit of reconciliation and truth telling.
Tuggerah, NSW
Ph: (02) 4304 3031
14/1 Bounty Close, Tuggerah NSW 2259
Monday to Friday, 8:30am - 4:30pm
Wangaratta, VIC
Ph: (03) 5737 4257
16 Osboldstone Rd, Wangaratta VIC 3677
Monday to Friday, 7am - 5pm
Broome, WA
Ph: 0428 995 955
41 Blackman St, Broome WA 6725
Monday to Friday 8:00am - 2:00pm
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