Vision Australia Brunch 2019
On Wednesday 5 June M&T Resources and Vision Australia held an event to introduce our clients to Vision Australia’s work experience and graduate programs in support of individuals with low vision.
The event was a great success. Engaging presentations were delivered by Vision Australia and a graduate who has directly benefited from the program in the past.
Speakers:
- Greg Brown, Employment Engagement Consultant, Vision Australia
- Melissa Rattle, People & Culture Business Partner, Vision Australia
- Caroline Lane, Graduate from Vision Australia’s 2016 Career Start Graduate Program
The Vision team provided insight into how organisations can support workplace diversity by breaking down the barriers for professionals with low vision and providing the skills, confidence and tools for people to enter / re-enter the workforce and embark on their career of choice. Vision Australia’s Employment / Work Experience Programs and 3 month Graduate Program were introduced as an opportunity for organisations to get involved.
We also heard from a recent graduate, Caroline Lane, who has benefited from the Vision Australia program and is now working as a Business Analyst within ANZ’s People Projects team.
About Caroline:
Caroline was a graduate from the Vision Australia 2016 Career Start Graduate Program. She is now working as a Business Analyst within ANZ’s People Projects team. Caroline has a degree in Human Resources and through the Vision Australia Program had the opportunity to undertake successful work placements at Public Transport Victoria and Vision Australia. Over the 12 months she developed her confidence and gained valuable experience. Through the Program, Caroline realised she could work anywhere and shortly after she was employed into the ANZ Graduate Program. She remains at ANZ to this day.
Following the presentations a roundtable discussion was held about the services offered, the specific programs and the technology testing and support that Vision provide free of charge for organisations to ensure the programs are successful for all.
We welcomed a wide range of clients from software, energy & utilities, banking, financial services and insurance. Many clients walked away with the intention of getting involved in the Program in the future, to support the diversity of their workforce as well as giving candidates with low vision the opportunities they need.
Background: Our history with Vision Australia
Since September 2017 we have been working closely with Vision Australia to develop a work experience programme held within the M&T Resources office, in support of candidates with low vision. Placements are targeted to candidates with aspirations to enter / re-enter Sales & Recruitment roles, in need of experience, learning & development, and confidence to work with visual impairments. This forms part of our Diversity & Inclusion initiative which has been in place since 2012.
The first placement was undertaken by Cheree Cole in August 2018.
“I thoroughly enjoyed my time with this team, they are a very friendly and so supportive it was sad to have to leave. The 4 weeks flew by. I thank you all for your kindness, friendliness and support.” – Cheree Cole