March 11, 2025 • 29 mins
When someone finds meaningful employment, they gain more than a paycheck—they discover dignity, purpose, and the ability to contribute to their community. This transformative journey sits at the heart of Hunter Adults Financial Collaborative (HAFC), where Cherylin Beever and her team help refugees and disadvantaged individuals overcome the invisible barriers standing between them and financial independence.
From the remarkable story of refugees establishing a successful commercial cleaning company to empowering women through tailored computer literacy programs, HAFC's approach recognises that employment support must go beyond traditional job placement. They address the practical challenges—like affording insurance for a business, navigating complex regulatory requirements, or rebuilding after setbacks—that often prevent talented, motivated people from securing stable work.
What makes HAFC's approach particularly powerful is its holistic vision of success. They combine practical assistance (small loans, skills training, resume writing workshops) with emotional support and ongoing mentorship, ensuring that clients don't just find jobs but develop lasting financial resilience. Working alongside partners like Newcastle City Council, Lake Macquarie Council, and local businesses, this volunteer-driven charity maximises its impact through strategic collaboration.
The cultural exchange through HAFC extends beyond employment, creating spaces where diverse communities connect through shared meals, celebration ceremonies, and mutual learning. Volunteers describe being profoundly moved by clients' stories of resilience, while clients express heartfelt gratitude for support that acknowledges their unique needs and circumstances.
For those interested in making a difference, HAFC welcomes volunteers and business partnerships that can help create employment pathways. Their story reminds us that when we remove barriers to participation, everyone benefits—individuals gain independence, businesses acquire dedicated workers, and communities grow stronger through increased diversity and contribution. Visit www.hunteradultsfc.org.au to learn how you can support their vital work.
Thank you for listening!
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Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Leon Goltsman (00:00):
Hello and welcome back to Engaging Conversations.
I'm your host, Leon Goltsman,and it's an honour to be here
with you today.
Every episode, we explore thestories of people making a real
impact, and today is noexception.
Before we begin, I'd like toacknowledge and thank our valued
sponsor, Niaz.
Cannoth, Principal and LendingSpecialist at Invest
(00:21):
Intelligence.
Nias is dedicated to sociallyresponsible investment
strategies, particularly indisability accommodation, and
his support makes conversationslike these possible.
Now today's episode is aboutsomething fundamental
opportunity.
Finding a job, starting freshor even rebuilding after a
setback isn't always asstraightforward as we think.
(00:42):
Even rebuilding after a setbackisn't always as straightforward
as we think.
There are invisible barriersthat hold people back, be it
navigating financial rules,gaining the right skills or
simply having someone to believein them.
That's where HAFC Hunter AdultsFinancial Collaborative steps
in.
Their mission isn't just abouthelping people find work.
(01:04):
It's to empower them to thrive,because when someone attains
meaningful employment, it goesbeyond just about financial
stability.
It's about dignity, self-worthand the ripple effect of
contributing to a strongercommunity.
Today, I have the pleasure ofspeaking Cherylin Beever, the
driving force behind HAFC.
Historically, Newcastle and theHunter region have long been
(01:29):
places of opportunity, welcomingpeople from all walks of life,
but, as we'll learn, having afair go isn't always as simple
as it sounds.
Hafc is changing that, andtheir work when it comes to
transforming lives.
We are all strengtheningbusinesses, communities and our
economy.
(01:50):
This is a conversation aboutempowerment, resilience and the
importance of giving people areal chance.
So, without further ado, let'sget into it.
Cherylin Beever (02:00):
My name is Cheryl Mbeva.
I'm treasurer of the HAFCcharity and retired person, but
I do a lot of volunteer work,which definitely keeps me young.
Leon Goltsman (02:10):
Not just young, but also very active.
Cherylin Beever (02:13):
Very active and I think you need to be active
in your senior life In terms ofour success story, and one that
really stands out would be ourestablishment of a commercial
cleaning company.
I was present at the TAFEwinner presentation award
ceremony where we had somerefugees that had been
completing a cleaning companycourse, a cleaning training, and
(02:35):
they were looking to establisha company.
And they approached us and welooked at them and thought, yes,
they definitely have thepassion, they have the training,
and we thought, yes, this candefinitely be a goer.
So they came along, we mentoredthem.
Their goal was to employ eightrefugees, which they have done,
(02:57):
and their successful companykeeps growing.
So definitely success for us.
Leon Goltsman (03:01):
And that's really important because when you've
got regional parts of any state,let alone New South Wales, even
though the population isgrowing, unemployment rate,
especially the youthunemployment rate, is on the
rise.
So it's really important tohave more business owners or, at
the very least, more peopleworking.
How do you feel yourorganisation is assisting that?
Cherylin Beever (03:24):
Definitely trying to get people into
employment because, althoughthere appears to be a lot of
jobs, it seems to be verydifficult to get our clients
into full-time employment.
There are just too manybarriers along the way, and I'm
not, and it's my hope that I caneliminate some of those
barriers so I can get themgainfully employed.
I can eliminate some of thosebarriers so I can get them
(03:47):
gainfully employed.
It just seems to be so muchpaperwork involved and difficult
for people to be able tonavigate those to get a job for
some people, not all people.
Leon Goltsman (03:53):
So, when it comes to keeping people in the
workforce, at least continuingtheir own business, how is that
something that you might be ableto assist them with?
Cherylin Beever (04:04):
Absolutely.
We have the facilities andmentoring and some financial
assistance business uh, how isthat something that you might be
able to assist them with?
Absolutely we've.
We have the facilities andmentoring and some financial
assistance that we can help that.
And I'm sure that there are awhole lot of people out there
that only need a small amount ofmoney to get them going.
We have had people that I'vehad jobs and ready to go and got
tools etc.
But can't afford the insurancethey can't afford the
(04:26):
registrations and so on and soforth they need.
So there's just those littlebarriers that they cannot get
themselves up and going.
We know a lot of smallbusinesses fail and we certainly
don't want that to happen.
So we're able to mentor them.
Leon Goltsman (04:39):
So we know that they're on the right track to
save to stay viable and I thinkthat's absolutely brilliant
because we know that when youhelp others, you kind of are
helping yourself.
I mean, when we started thisconversation, you mentioned that
you're a retiree, but you areactive and you look very happy
and you look very determined andsatisfied to keep going.
(05:01):
You love what you do.
Cherylin Beever (05:03):
I certainly do.
I enjoy helping people and it'sjust second nature to me that
you help people and I can do itin such enjoyable ways.
I find great satisfaction withdealing with people.
Sometimes a small amount ofeffort brings such rewards to
them, and that is verysatisfying.
Leon Goltsman (05:21):
I bet it is.
And, Cheryl, given HAFC'scommitment to helping
individuals assist financialindependence.
What are some of the mostrewarding transformations you've
seen?
Cherylin Beever (05:33):
In terms of people having financial stress.
We did have one client that wehad already helped and
unfortunately came across somemore difficult times.
His home was robbed, his workcomputer was stolen, he had car
issues, he had family issues andfinance was a problem.
(05:55):
So we were able to give him alittle bit more money.
We gave him a lot of social andemotional support as well,
because he needed that as wellas the financial, so he was able
to pay back his loan andcontinue his business.
So it was a win-win situationmade us feel like we were valued
and he was able to climb out ofthat pit that he was in, which
(06:15):
was hard, but he was able to doit with our assistance it's
always good to know you've gotsomebody out there you can count
on, or somebody that at leastis there and they care
absolutely, and sometimes thosepeople may have ideas of what
they need to do, but they justneed extra confidence and
reassurance from us that theseare the steps that they can take
(06:37):
and there are facilities andservices out there to assist
them and one of those things isunderstanding how financial
literacy.
Leon Goltsman (06:46):
What practical steps does hafc take to ensure
people don't just receive helpbut build lasting financial
resilience?
Cherylin Beever (06:55):
to make them be able to be financially secure
and move forward in their lives.
We definitely see a number onepriority as getting them getting
employment, because a lot ofthem do want to get off
government assistance.
They want to be able to besuccessful citizens and
contributing to the economy.
They all want a job.
(07:15):
We've run resume writing,interview skills workshops.
We've done computer lessons forthem.
We are upskilling people thathave existing sewing skills so
we're trying to upskill them sothat they can start a little
micro business from home doingsome piecework.
We've been able to provide themwith sewing machines.
We've had volunteers it's beensourced those from the community
(07:37):
and had volunteers fix them sothat they've got a sewing
machine at home which gives themsome chance of getting some
employment.
When we've been successful ingetting job leads for people,
we've helped them with completeonline training courses, sought
out superannuation, assist themwith completing online forms,
uploading documents just tryingto help them through that,
(07:59):
because there is so much thereand if your literacy skills
aren't great it's a struggle.
So we are able to make them alittle bit more financially
viable in the open market ofemployment.
They probably would not get aninterview because there are too
many barriers.
Even with if they've got aresume and they've got a maybe
an employment agency, it stilldoesn't guarantee that they'll
(08:22):
get a job, because there's a lotof putting a lot on the
individual to find those jobsand it's very difficult.
One of our applicants hasstarted a business sewing
t-shirts and clothing afterrunning a successful business in
India for 10 years.
While he was waiting to come toAustralia, I had two lovely
ladies, single mums withchildren.
They have gained part-time workand we were able to get a lead
(08:45):
from a company that wantedsomeone and I went with them to
the employer and we had adiscussion.
I helped them with theirsuperannuation funds, helped
them with their banking details.
Now the employer was excitedwith their work ethic and the
ladies were delighted becausethey got some additional income
in the hope that once they do agood job as part-time, they may
(09:08):
get full-time work.
So they're the kind ofsuccesses that we value.
Leon Goltsman (09:13):
Your organisation is also like a, I suppose,
paves the way.
It's like a stepping stone.
Cherylin Beever (09:18):
I totally agree because I feel a lot of the
things that we are doing arekind of bridging gaps.
The employment agencies can doa certain amount and we find
that we can sort of do the nextextra steps that allow them to
get employment.
So definitely think we areproviding necessary.
Sometimes it might be just aservice, sometimes it may be
(09:41):
finance, it might be just helpalong the way to make that
pathway to employment or beingfinancially viable an easier one
.
Leon Goltsman (09:49):
And you mentioned some challenges and red tape.
I'm also thinking consideringthe current global climate, with
rising concerns about socialdivisions and possibly
discrimination.
How does your organisationactively encourage inclusivity
and unity within the communitythat it serves?
Cherylin Beever (10:11):
As a charity small charity we are quite
active in the community, movingamongst different community
groups.
We wanted to get our name outthere and we spent a lot of time
actually actively walking outin the community, so to speak,
visiting multicultural centres,festivals, community groups
where they gather events.
(10:32):
Zara's house survivors are usTAFE training providers.
Anywhere where there's agrouping of people that we think
maybe could, we could provideassistance.
For once we became more wellknown.
We were able to accessdifferent people and they've
approached us for differentkinds of assistance.
Board members have helped withgetting friends on board and
(10:56):
then friends and friends havecome on board and family have
come on board, so that's made usmore able to access volunteers
across a broader community.
Volunteers come in and theyhear quite amazing stories of
people's journeys and theirsurvival and it's just rewarding
.
They experience the gratitudeof the people that they are able
(11:17):
to help.
It becomes a win-win situationfor both the volunteers and
those that we help.
Language barriers arenegotiated and the smiles on
their faces says it all yeah andum, and you can't hide a
genuine smile.
Leon Goltsman (11:31):
I mean, I'm smiling, I'm hearing these
inspiring stories and you justcan't help but smile absolutely
it's.
Cherylin Beever (11:38):
It's such those feel-good stories that we need
more of in the community, aboutall those lovely things that are
happening, rather than thehorrific events that are
broadcast constantly to makepeople feel that the world is
not a happy place and there arelots of happy people out there
and we can make those smiles ontheir faces bigger real smiles.
(11:59):
That's why it's important tohave conversations like this one
absolutely in conversationswhere you just find out about
those people, because the moreyou find out about them you
realise wow, the journeys thatthey've come and how much they
In Australia we take for granted.
But when we have new peoplearrive, how different their
story is and how much they haveto offer the Australian
(12:21):
community.
I'm in awe of some of thesepeople that I deal with who have
such resilience and have gonethrough so much and do not
complain about it.
They do not draw attention tothemselves, they just realise
what a beautiful countryAustralia is and they appreciate
it so much.
So it is very eye-opening Ifyou do hear some of their
(12:44):
personal stories.
I don't necessarily ask themfor them, but just to hear what
they've been through it makesyou feel so humble.
Leon Goltsman (12:51):
One of the challenges that's worth
recognising is the ones thatcome with starting your own
business, especially for thosefacing financial hardships.
Sherilyn, what resources orsupport systems does HAFC offer
to ensure sustainable successfor these entrepreneurs?
Cherylin Beever (13:08):
It's a hard road even for people to
establish a business.
Perhaps the biggest challengesare around negotiating the
requirements of the law whatcertificates, licences are
required, workers' compensation,insurance entitlements,
financial rules, et cetera.
It just goes on and on.
Starting a business, often intheir homeland, has been quite
(13:29):
simple and very straightforward,but not so in Australia.
We provide a lot of mentoringalong the way so their business
is set up properly and theirbusiness can succeed.
Some of our clients require lessmentoring assistance but may
need more financial assistance.
One of our applicants lost hisbusiness during COVID, so we've
(13:52):
been able to assess his needsand provide him with a small
loan he was able to.
He had work truck, he had tools, he had jobs all ready to go,
but not the capacity, so we wereable to loan him money.
He was able to register histruck, pay his insurances and
get his business up and runningagain.
And, as a small charity, we cantailor the mentoring to that
(14:15):
person and their needs and matchthem with the board member who
has the best expertise that theycan share with them.
Leon Goltsman (14:23):
And for that, of course, you need good
partnerships, and appreciatingthe role of community
partnerships is, I suppose, yourmission.
Could you elaborate on anycollaborations that have
significantly amplified yourimpact?
Cherylin Beever (14:36):
on any collaborations that have
significantly amplified yourimpact.
Since we started our charity, Ithink our biggest movement
forward has been engaging withdifferent agencies and
communities.
It has been.
It definitely has anexponential effect.
Our charity has been reallywell supported by the Ian and
Shirley Norman Foundation, whogave us our initial funding and
(14:56):
then helped us with courses thatwe've run by providing some
free meeting rooms, and theyhave also paid for our social
media person and that's the onlyperson that's actually paid in
our charity.
In addition, newcastle CoalInfrastructure Group have funded
us, has given us a grant aswell, and they even sent some of
(15:18):
their staff members along tohelp us in our workshop, which
was great.
Newcastle City Council, lakeMacquarie Council and Orica have
all supported us with oursocial inclusion programs.
The Mex Club supports us byallowing our meetings to be held
there and also supports usfinancially.
One of our programs thatdemonstrated to us the great
(15:40):
power of the collective effortwas a free room, hire and use of
computers at Walsing Library.
That was given by NewcastleCity Council and at the same
time, lake Macquarie Councilthen gave us a small grant to
fund the trainer and interpreter, so that helped her financially
(16:01):
as well.
So we provided volunteers, andit was just a huge success for
the ladies.
They had great attendance.
They all requested more lessons, and not only did it improve
their computer skills, but italso improved their English as
well.
So it was a cooperative effort.
Leon Goltsman (16:19):
Certainly for a small organisation.
You really are punching aboveyour weight.
Cherylin Beever (16:24):
Oh, thank you, it's been.
It's been a long journey and Ithink we will continue to grow.
Leon Goltsman (16:29):
From strength to strength, Absolutely Noting your
focus on empowering individualsfacing hardship and those going
through challenges.
What unique programs or supportdo you offer to address the
specific needs of vulnerablegroups?
Cherylin Beever (16:44):
We've had to make our programs quite specific
, especially when we've appliedfor grants.
It's really important that wetarget the people that are needy
in our community.
We were made aware by some, bysome of the community leaders
that the refugee womendefinitely wanted computer
skills.
So some of them had littleEnglish, some had more English,
(17:06):
some had no computer skillsbecause whatever they do is
mainly on a mobile phone, whichis quite restrictive for them.
So we ran a computer class.
We knew the ladies.
Although they lacked skills,they had bucket loads of
enthusiasm for the program.
So the program was run at WallsEnd Library, a place that was
(17:26):
well known to the ladies.
It was easily accessible.
They mainly come by bus.
We had to consider the hours ofschool and also the days that
they liked to visit the mosque,so we really tailored it to
their needs.
We ran it on the day of theweek.
That was most suitable becausethe ladies tend to go to English
classes three days a week.
(17:47):
So we had to be highly specificthe timing, the dates, so it
really we got maximum attendance.
The careful planning ensuredthat we met their needs and the
program was very successfulbecause I think we can set them
up in the community.
But if we set them up forfailure, we need to have a
strong support around them sothey're not set up for failure,
(18:08):
even though they'll get to acertain point, we want them to
continue to grow and to becomeactive Australian citizens.
Leon Goltsman (18:14):
You're certainly providing the right guidance.
Cherylin Beever (18:23):
Yes, I think we can.
Definitely.
Every client that comes to ushas somewhat different needs, so
we have to look carefully.
So it's not like one programfits all.
So we very much.
We're just never quite surewhat people want, and so we will
often have taken differentdirections to make sure that
we're given the best possibleoutcome.
Leon Goltsman (18:37):
And that's brilliant, because understanding
people is really what yourorganisation is all about.
And, speaking of understanding,your organisation is certainly
volunteer driven organisation.
How do you engage and retainvolunteers who are passionate
about your mission?
Cherylin Beever (18:54):
As a small organisation, we've mainly
attracted our volunteers by wordof mouth, our internet page.
We certainly have a request forvolunteers and we are still
seeking more volunteers, butbasically it's been friends and
family that started off and ourchairperson always likes to
acknowledge the efforts that ourvolunteers have made when
(19:15):
they've come to special programsand someone given up their time
freely.
So much of the rewards for ourvolunteers come from the
satisfaction of just sharingthat pure joy of achievement.
As the ladies receive acertificate, because that seems
to be something they valueprobably more than a lot of
Australian people value and theyalways want to know can they
(19:35):
get a certificate.
So it's much valued.
And whenever they receive thecertificate you have to be
prepared for multiple photos,because that is something they
definitely do.
And at the end of any programswe run there always has to be
some sort of party day whichinvolves food and a certificate.
So it just seems to be so muchpart of their cultural tradition
(19:57):
.
It's such a big thing for themto get a certificate.
Further, some of our volunteershave even delivered sewing
machines.
They've hooked up theirtrailers and delivered furniture
for the, for the refugees andpeople that we've come across.
The gratitude shown by them isenough reward in itself.
And to visit a refugee at home,which I do a lot, it always
involves food and tea and youcan you can never leave in a
(20:21):
short time.
You'll have to be there for acouple of hours to enjoy the
hospitality.
Recently driving ladies home inmy car so it was easier to get
them to the location.
They each one of them, as I'lldrop them off at their home
invite me to come in and haveafternoon tea with them.
Leon Goltsman (20:35):
So it's always a rewarding experience it would be
, yeah, and I've always jokinglysaid that food is an
international language of love,and I'm still yet to be proven
wrong absolutely.
Cherylin Beever (20:48):
The ladies particularly love to bring their
own food and the same time weprovide Australian food.
So it's it's interestingbecause they'll ask about our
Australian food, or what is thisand we ask about?
There's it's just, you know,that sheer joy because sometimes
the only thing those ladieshave at home is to be cooks or
to be sewers so they can showthis is how we make it and it's
(21:08):
a real tradition, for it's it'sdefinitely something that binds
the community together food andenjoying, enjoying tea.
Leon Goltsman (21:16):
It's about recognising the importance of
adaptability to the differentfood, the lifestyles, the
different communities that youmight encounter.
How has the organisationevolved its programs to meet the
changing needs of the community, especially in light of, say,
the recent global events?
Cherylin Beever (21:33):
Yes, some of the settlement agencies that
deal with dealing withimmigrants coming into Australia
will often let us know thatthey're expecting a group for a
certain country and sometimes wewill give those settlement
agencies further assistance,often maybe in getting jobs.
Again, it's the next thingafter the settlement agencies.
We can make.
The settlement agencies do awonderful job in getting them
(21:56):
settled, in, set all theirthings up for them, and
sometimes we're meeting thosepeople maybe six months further
down the track or 12 monthsfurther down the track when
they're ready to engage withmore of the Australian community
.
Often if we have applicantsrequesting employment and they
may have come from a war-torncountry, they will often have a
variety of skills.
They've had maybe a variety ofjobs.
(22:17):
Their qualifications aren'tnecessarily, not usually
recognised in Australia and tohave those validated is an
expensive option which is notavailable to them.
So we try to meet with thempersonally, give them some ideas
of what employment they canobtain and maybe what training
(22:38):
avenues they could go down, andagain tailoring it to the person
.
So sometimes we can get themjobs.
We do have contacts and we findit's those contacts just at
least trying to get them aninterview rather than just have
them on the opening mark becauseby applying for a job they'll
never get considered.
It's just too too many barriers.
So we are able to cater fordifferent groups that are coming
(23:00):
into Australia.
We definitely think we arefulfilling a need, albeit a
small one, but as we've grownwe've been able to certainly
expand our applicants and thenumber of people that are coming
across wanting assistance.
Sometimes we are able to givevalue, but sometimes we are
unable.
But certainly giving themdifferent options so they can
(23:21):
become employed.
Leon Goltsman (23:22):
So, considering your deep connection to the
Hunter region, how do youincorporate local values,
history and community traditionsin the work that you do?
Cherylin Beever (23:33):
I think historically, newcastle and the
Hunter Valley have been alwayswelcome people from different
cultures.
It's a long history of that,dating a long way back.
So some companies that we havecontacts with are always willing
to employ people with Englishas a second language.
So we have contacts there whichmake it easier for those people
(23:54):
to get employment Now thatemployment may not be their
highly sought after job, but itwill be a starting place for
them.
So we value those connectionsthat we can.
Those people will be given a gobecause we do know they have
the skills, but there's thelanguage is often a problem If
their language is not goodenough.
So if it's not good enough toget employment, we then
(24:14):
encourage them to keep doingdoing their english education
lessons and keeping them gettingtheir conversational english up
in the community, gettingoutside their home, getting
outside their school environmentso that they can communicate
and their english can improve sothey can become employable so
look, if companies wanted to, toreach out to you and and to see
(24:35):
what they could do.
Leon Goltsman (24:36):
What is the best way to contact you?
Cherylin Beever (24:46):
Our website is wwwhunteradultsfcorgau and you
can contact me as the secretaryon 0407 290 861 or drop me an
email.
No problem, I'd love to hearfrom you.
We are always open to peopleasking for help.
It may be that we can providesome creative, something
different.
Sometimes we have employmentproviders or disabilities
contact us, asking for somethingthat maybe they can't offer in
(25:08):
their scope because we've gotdifferent avenues.
One such example is we had adisability person contact us and
they had a gentleman who washaving some issues and we were
able to mentor him, meet withhim and we allowed him to
purchase some camera equipmentwhich was helping with his
online hobby and in further downthe track he was, he got his
(25:33):
motion which helped hisemotional well-being, and he was
able to get back into full-timeemployment and is now mentoring
some younger people throughabout his life experiences.
So that was a really greatexample of us providing
something other than just astraight job people, empowering
people, and that really is whatcommunity is all about
(25:54):
absolutely people helping oneanother, providing solutions.
That's is what community is allabout Absolutely people helping
one another providing solutions.
That's definitely what ourcommunity needs more people
helping each other and beingnice to each other.
Leon Goltsman (26:05):
And speaking of people being nice to each other
and helping each other, Isuppose if people wanted to
they're not a company, but theystill wanted to volunteer and
help the best way is still geton the website.
Cherylin Beever (26:17):
Absolutely.
On the website we are alwayslooking for volunteers and
sometimes it can be justsomething small.
It could be a once-all.
It doesn't have to be acommitment to weeks of anything
else.
We don't specifically have anytraining.
They don't need to come with ahuge amount of skills, just
(26:39):
passion and knowing that theywill fall in love with the
people that they are workingwith because they are so open,
friendly and full of gratitudefor anyone that wants to help
them.
Leon Goltsman (26:50):
And this is why I love doing what I do because I
get to speak to remarkablepeople like yourself.
Thank you so much for your time.
Thank you for taking the timeto speak with me and to connect
with our audience.
I'm sure they're going to lovethis podcast as much as I loved
creating it with you.
Cherylin Beever (27:10):
Thank you so much.
It was a lovely opportunity forme to reflect on our journey in
our charity for the last twoand a half years and has been
very vital for our organisationto reflect on what we've done
and how we are going to continueto move forward to make
differences in people's lives.
Leon Goltsman (27:22):
And that brings us to the end of another
powerful episode of EngagingConversations.
What an inspiring discussionwith Cherylin Beever from HAFC
this has been.
If there's one key takeaway,it's this Employment is about
more than just a paycheck.
It's about confidence,contribution and breaking down
the barriers that prevent peoplefrom standing on their own two
(27:44):
feet.
Whether it's a refugeenavigating an unfamiliar system,
a small business ownerstruggling to stay afloat or
someone rebuilding after asetback, the right support can
make all the difference.
And it's not just theindividuals who benefit.
All the difference.
And it's not just theindividuals who benefit.
When we empower people tosucceed, businesses grow,
(28:05):
communities thrive and we allbecome part of something bigger.
From Newcastle and LakeMacquarie City Councils to Orica
, to families and localbusinesses, hafc is proof that
when we work together, everyonewins.
These are the stories that needto be told, stories that remind
us of the power of opportunity,resilience and human connection
(28:28):
.
If you want to learn more aboutHAFC or how you can be a part
of the solution, check out thelinks in the show notes.
Now, before we go, I want togive you a glimpse of next
week's episode, because it's oneof those you truly don't want
to miss.
I'll be speaking with Theo vanBusen from Morissette Op Shop,
(28:49):
formerly known as ADRA, anindividual who believes that
everything and everyone deservesa second chance.
Theo isn't just running an opshop.
He's transforming lives,creating community and proving
that the small actions can leadto something extraordinary.
It's an inspiring conversationabout purpose, generosity and
(29:09):
the unexpected ways we can lifteach other up.
Thank you to our audience, ourguests, our sponsor and the
entire team who make thisprogram possible.
I'm your host, Leon Goltsman,and until next time, stay safe,
stay inspired and let's keepmaking a difference together.
Hello and welcome back to Engaging Conversations.
I'm your host, Leon Goltsman,and it's an honour to be here
with you today.
Every episode, we explore thestories of people making a real
impact, and today is noexception.
Before we begin, I'd like toacknowledge and thank our valued
sponsor, Niaz.
Cannoth, Principal and LendingSpecialist at Invest
(00:21):
Intelligence.
Nias is dedicated to sociallyresponsible investment
strategies, particularly indisability accommodation, and
his support makes conversationslike these possible.
Now today's episode is aboutsomething fundamental
opportunity.
Finding a job, starting freshor even rebuilding after a
setback isn't always asstraightforward as we think.
(00:42):
Even rebuilding after a setbackisn't always as straightforward
as we think.
There are invisible barriersthat hold people back, be it
navigating financial rules,gaining the right skills or
simply having someone to believein them.
That's where HAFC Hunter AdultsFinancial Collaborative steps
in.
Their mission isn't just abouthelping people find work.
(01:04):
It's to empower them to thrive,because when someone attains
meaningful employment, it goesbeyond just about financial
stability.
It's about dignity, self-worthand the ripple effect of
contributing to a strongercommunity.
Today, I have the pleasure ofspeaking Cherylin Beever, the
driving force behind HAFC.
Historically, Newcastle and theHunter region have long been
(01:29):
places of opportunity, welcomingpeople from all walks of life,
but, as we'll learn, having afair go isn't always as simple
as it sounds.
Hafc is changing that, andtheir work when it comes to
transforming lives.
We are all strengtheningbusinesses, communities and our
economy.
(01:50):
This is a conversation aboutempowerment, resilience and the
importance of giving people areal chance.
So, without further ado, let'sget into it.
Cherylin Beever (02:00):
My name is Cheryl Mbeva.
I'm treasurer of the HAFCcharity and retired person, but
I do a lot of volunteer work,which definitely keeps me young.
Leon Goltsman (02:10):
Not just young, but also very active.
Cherylin Beever (02:13):
Very active and I think you need to be active
in your senior life In terms ofour success story, and one that
really stands out would be ourestablishment of a commercial
cleaning company.
I was present at the TAFEwinner presentation award
ceremony where we had somerefugees that had been
completing a cleaning companycourse, a cleaning training, and
(02:35):
they were looking to establisha company.
And they approached us and welooked at them and thought, yes,
they definitely have thepassion, they have the training,
and we thought, yes, this candefinitely be a goer.
So they came along, we mentoredthem.
Their goal was to employ eightrefugees, which they have done,
(02:57):
and their successful companykeeps growing.
So definitely success for us.
Leon Goltsman (03:01):
And that's really important because when you've
got regional parts of any state,let alone New South Wales, even
though the population isgrowing, unemployment rate,
especially the youthunemployment rate, is on the
rise.
So it's really important tohave more business owners or, at
the very least, more peopleworking.
How do you feel yourorganisation is assisting that?
Cherylin Beever (03:24):
Definitely trying to get people into
employment because, althoughthere appears to be a lot of
jobs, it seems to be verydifficult to get our clients
into full-time employment.
There are just too manybarriers along the way, and I'm
not, and it's my hope that I caneliminate some of those
barriers so I can get themgainfully employed.
I can eliminate some of thosebarriers so I can get them
(03:47):
gainfully employed.
It just seems to be so muchpaperwork involved and difficult
for people to be able tonavigate those to get a job for
some people, not all people.
Leon Goltsman (03:53):
So, when it comes to keeping people in the
workforce, at least continuingtheir own business, how is that
something that you might be ableto assist them with?
Cherylin Beever (04:04):
Absolutely.
We have the facilities andmentoring and some financial
assistance business uh, how isthat something that you might be
able to assist them with?
Absolutely we've.
We have the facilities andmentoring and some financial
assistance that we can help that.
And I'm sure that there are awhole lot of people out there
that only need a small amount ofmoney to get them going.
We have had people that I'vehad jobs and ready to go and got
tools etc.
But can't afford the insurancethey can't afford the
(04:26):
registrations and so on and soforth they need.
So there's just those littlebarriers that they cannot get
themselves up and going.
We know a lot of smallbusinesses fail and we certainly
don't want that to happen.
So we're able to mentor them.
Leon Goltsman (04:39):
So we know that they're on the right track to
save to stay viable and I thinkthat's absolutely brilliant
because we know that when youhelp others, you kind of are
helping yourself.
I mean, when we started thisconversation, you mentioned that
you're a retiree, but you areactive and you look very happy
and you look very determined andsatisfied to keep going.
(05:01):
You love what you do.
Cherylin Beever (05:03):
I certainly do.
I enjoy helping people and it'sjust second nature to me that
you help people and I can do itin such enjoyable ways.
I find great satisfaction withdealing with people.
Sometimes a small amount ofeffort brings such rewards to
them, and that is verysatisfying.
Leon Goltsman (05:21):
I bet it is.
And, Cheryl, given HAFC'scommitment to helping
individuals assist financialindependence.
What are some of the mostrewarding transformations you've
seen?
Cherylin Beever (05:33):
In terms of people having financial stress.
We did have one client that wehad already helped and
unfortunately came across somemore difficult times.
His home was robbed, his workcomputer was stolen, he had car
issues, he had family issues andfinance was a problem.
(05:55):
So we were able to give him alittle bit more money.
We gave him a lot of social andemotional support as well,
because he needed that as wellas the financial, so he was able
to pay back his loan andcontinue his business.
So it was a win-win situationmade us feel like we were valued
and he was able to climb out ofthat pit that he was in, which
(06:15):
was hard, but he was able to doit with our assistance it's
always good to know you've gotsomebody out there you can count
on, or somebody that at leastis there and they care
absolutely, and sometimes thosepeople may have ideas of what
they need to do, but they justneed extra confidence and
reassurance from us that theseare the steps that they can take
(06:37):
and there are facilities andservices out there to assist
them and one of those things isunderstanding how financial
literacy.
Leon Goltsman (06:46):
What practical steps does hafc take to ensure
people don't just receive helpbut build lasting financial
resilience?
Cherylin Beever (06:55):
to make them be able to be financially secure
and move forward in their lives.
We definitely see a number onepriority as getting them getting
employment, because a lot ofthem do want to get off
government assistance.
They want to be able to besuccessful citizens and
contributing to the economy.
They all want a job.
(07:15):
We've run resume writing,interview skills workshops.
We've done computer lessons forthem.
We are upskilling people thathave existing sewing skills so
we're trying to upskill them sothat they can start a little
micro business from home doingsome piecework.
We've been able to provide themwith sewing machines.
We've had volunteers it's beensourced those from the community
(07:37):
and had volunteers fix them sothat they've got a sewing
machine at home which gives themsome chance of getting some
employment.
When we've been successful ingetting job leads for people,
we've helped them with completeonline training courses, sought
out superannuation, assist themwith completing online forms,
uploading documents just tryingto help them through that,
(07:59):
because there is so much thereand if your literacy skills
aren't great it's a struggle.
So we are able to make them alittle bit more financially
viable in the open market ofemployment.
They probably would not get aninterview because there are too
many barriers.
Even with if they've got aresume and they've got a maybe
an employment agency, it stilldoesn't guarantee that they'll
(08:22):
get a job, because there's a lotof putting a lot on the
individual to find those jobsand it's very difficult.
One of our applicants hasstarted a business sewing
t-shirts and clothing afterrunning a successful business in
India for 10 years.
While he was waiting to come toAustralia, I had two lovely
ladies, single mums withchildren.
They have gained part-time workand we were able to get a lead
(08:45):
from a company that wantedsomeone and I went with them to
the employer and we had adiscussion.
I helped them with theirsuperannuation funds, helped
them with their banking details.
Now the employer was excitedwith their work ethic and the
ladies were delighted becausethey got some additional income
in the hope that once they do agood job as part-time, they may
(09:08):
get full-time work.
So they're the kind ofsuccesses that we value.
Leon Goltsman (09:13):
Your organisation is also like a, I suppose,
paves the way.
It's like a stepping stone.
Cherylin Beever (09:18):
I totally agree because I feel a lot of the
things that we are doing arekind of bridging gaps.
The employment agencies can doa certain amount and we find
that we can sort of do the nextextra steps that allow them to
get employment.
So definitely think we areproviding necessary.
Sometimes it might be just aservice, sometimes it may be
(09:41):
finance, it might be just helpalong the way to make that
pathway to employment or beingfinancially viable an easier one
.
Leon Goltsman (09:49):
And you mentioned some challenges and red tape.
I'm also thinking consideringthe current global climate, with
rising concerns about socialdivisions and possibly
discrimination.
How does your organisationactively encourage inclusivity
and unity within the communitythat it serves?
Cherylin Beever (10:11):
As a charity small charity we are quite
active in the community, movingamongst different community
groups.
We wanted to get our name outthere and we spent a lot of time
actually actively walking outin the community, so to speak,
visiting multicultural centres,festivals, community groups
where they gather events.
(10:32):
Zara's house survivors are usTAFE training providers.
Anywhere where there's agrouping of people that we think
maybe could, we could provideassistance.
For once we became more wellknown.
We were able to accessdifferent people and they've
approached us for differentkinds of assistance.
Board members have helped withgetting friends on board and
(10:56):
then friends and friends havecome on board and family have
come on board, so that's made usmore able to access volunteers
across a broader community.
Volunteers come in and theyhear quite amazing stories of
people's journeys and theirsurvival and it's just rewarding
.
They experience the gratitudeof the people that they are able
(11:17):
to help.
It becomes a win-win situationfor both the volunteers and
those that we help.
Language barriers arenegotiated and the smiles on
their faces says it all yeah andum, and you can't hide a
genuine smile.
Leon Goltsman (11:31):
I mean, I'm smiling, I'm hearing these
inspiring stories and you justcan't help but smile absolutely
it's.
Cherylin Beever (11:38):
It's such those feel-good stories that we need
more of in the community, aboutall those lovely things that are
happening, rather than thehorrific events that are
broadcast constantly to makepeople feel that the world is
not a happy place and there arelots of happy people out there
and we can make those smiles ontheir faces bigger real smiles.
(11:59):
That's why it's important tohave conversations like this one
absolutely in conversationswhere you just find out about
those people, because the moreyou find out about them you
realise wow, the journeys thatthey've come and how much they
In Australia we take for granted.
But when we have new peoplearrive, how different their
story is and how much they haveto offer the Australian
(12:21):
community.
I'm in awe of some of thesepeople that I deal with who have
such resilience and have gonethrough so much and do not
complain about it.
They do not draw attention tothemselves, they just realise
what a beautiful countryAustralia is and they appreciate
it so much.
So it is very eye-opening Ifyou do hear some of their
(12:44):
personal stories.
I don't necessarily ask themfor them, but just to hear what
they've been through it makesyou feel so humble.
Leon Goltsman (12:51):
One of the challenges that's worth
recognising is the ones thatcome with starting your own
business, especially for thosefacing financial hardships.
Sherilyn, what resources orsupport systems does HAFC offer
to ensure sustainable successfor these entrepreneurs?
Cherylin Beever (13:08):
It's a hard road even for people to
establish a business.
Perhaps the biggest challengesare around negotiating the
requirements of the law whatcertificates, licences are
required, workers' compensation,insurance entitlements,
financial rules, et cetera.
It just goes on and on.
Starting a business, often intheir homeland, has been quite
(13:29):
simple and very straightforward,but not so in Australia.
We provide a lot of mentoringalong the way so their business
is set up properly and theirbusiness can succeed.
Some of our clients require lessmentoring assistance but may
need more financial assistance.
One of our applicants lost hisbusiness during COVID, so we've
(13:52):
been able to assess his needsand provide him with a small
loan he was able to.
He had work truck, he had tools, he had jobs all ready to go,
but not the capacity, so we wereable to loan him money.
He was able to register histruck, pay his insurances and
get his business up and runningagain.
And, as a small charity, we cantailor the mentoring to that
(14:15):
person and their needs and matchthem with the board member who
has the best expertise that theycan share with them.
Leon Goltsman (14:23):
And for that, of course, you need good
partnerships, and appreciatingthe role of community
partnerships is, I suppose, yourmission.
Could you elaborate on anycollaborations that have
significantly amplified yourimpact?
Cherylin Beever (14:36):
on any collaborations that have
significantly amplified yourimpact.
Since we started our charity, Ithink our biggest movement
forward has been engaging withdifferent agencies and
communities.
It has been.
It definitely has anexponential effect.
Our charity has been reallywell supported by the Ian and
Shirley Norman Foundation, whogave us our initial funding and
(14:56):
then helped us with courses thatwe've run by providing some
free meeting rooms, and theyhave also paid for our social
media person and that's the onlyperson that's actually paid in
our charity.
In addition, newcastle CoalInfrastructure Group have funded
us, has given us a grant aswell, and they even sent some of
(15:18):
their staff members along tohelp us in our workshop, which
was great.
Newcastle City Council, lakeMacquarie Council and Orica have
all supported us with oursocial inclusion programs.
The Mex Club supports us byallowing our meetings to be held
there and also supports usfinancially.
One of our programs thatdemonstrated to us the great
(15:40):
power of the collective effortwas a free room, hire and use of
computers at Walsing Library.
That was given by NewcastleCity Council and at the same
time, lake Macquarie Councilthen gave us a small grant to
fund the trainer and interpreter, so that helped her financially
(16:01):
as well.
So we provided volunteers, andit was just a huge success for
the ladies.
They had great attendance.
They all requested more lessons, and not only did it improve
their computer skills, but italso improved their English as
well.
So it was a cooperative effort.
Leon Goltsman (16:19):
Certainly for a small organisation.
You really are punching aboveyour weight.
Cherylin Beever (16:24):
Oh, thank you, it's been.
It's been a long journey and Ithink we will continue to grow.
Leon Goltsman (16:29):
From strength to strength, Absolutely Noting your
focus on empowering individualsfacing hardship and those going
through challenges.
What unique programs or supportdo you offer to address the
specific needs of vulnerablegroups?
Cherylin Beever (16:44):
We've had to make our programs quite specific
, especially when we've appliedfor grants.
It's really important that wetarget the people that are needy
in our community.
We were made aware by some, bysome of the community leaders
that the refugee womendefinitely wanted computer
skills.
So some of them had littleEnglish, some had more English,
(17:06):
some had no computer skillsbecause whatever they do is
mainly on a mobile phone, whichis quite restrictive for them.
So we ran a computer class.
We knew the ladies.
Although they lacked skills,they had bucket loads of
enthusiasm for the program.
So the program was run at WallsEnd Library, a place that was
(17:26):
well known to the ladies.
It was easily accessible.
They mainly come by bus.
We had to consider the hours ofschool and also the days that
they liked to visit the mosque,so we really tailored it to
their needs.
We ran it on the day of theweek.
That was most suitable becausethe ladies tend to go to English
classes three days a week.
(17:47):
So we had to be highly specificthe timing, the dates, so it
really we got maximum attendance.
The careful planning ensuredthat we met their needs and the
program was very successfulbecause I think we can set them
up in the community.
But if we set them up forfailure, we need to have a
strong support around them sothey're not set up for failure,
(18:08):
even though they'll get to acertain point, we want them to
continue to grow and to becomeactive Australian citizens.
Leon Goltsman (18:14):
You're certainly providing the right guidance.
Cherylin Beever (18:23):
Yes, I think we can.
Definitely.
Every client that comes to ushas somewhat different needs, so
we have to look carefully.
So it's not like one programfits all.
So we very much.
We're just never quite surewhat people want, and so we will
often have taken differentdirections to make sure that
we're given the best possibleoutcome.
Leon Goltsman (18:37):
And that's brilliant, because understanding
people is really what yourorganisation is all about.
And, speaking of understanding,your organisation is certainly
volunteer driven organisation.
How do you engage and retainvolunteers who are passionate
about your mission?
Cherylin Beever (18:54):
As a small organisation, we've mainly
attracted our volunteers by wordof mouth, our internet page.
We certainly have a request forvolunteers and we are still
seeking more volunteers, butbasically it's been friends and
family that started off and ourchairperson always likes to
acknowledge the efforts that ourvolunteers have made when
(19:15):
they've come to special programsand someone given up their time
freely.
So much of the rewards for ourvolunteers come from the
satisfaction of just sharingthat pure joy of achievement.
As the ladies receive acertificate, because that seems
to be something they valueprobably more than a lot of
Australian people value and theyalways want to know can they
(19:35):
get a certificate.
So it's much valued.
And whenever they receive thecertificate you have to be
prepared for multiple photos,because that is something they
definitely do.
And at the end of any programswe run there always has to be
some sort of party day whichinvolves food and a certificate.
So it just seems to be so muchpart of their cultural tradition
(19:57):
.
It's such a big thing for themto get a certificate.
Further, some of our volunteershave even delivered sewing
machines.
They've hooked up theirtrailers and delivered furniture
for the, for the refugees andpeople that we've come across.
The gratitude shown by them isenough reward in itself.
And to visit a refugee at home,which I do a lot, it always
involves food and tea and youcan you can never leave in a
(20:21):
short time.
You'll have to be there for acouple of hours to enjoy the
hospitality.
Recently driving ladies home inmy car so it was easier to get
them to the location.
They each one of them, as I'lldrop them off at their home
invite me to come in and haveafternoon tea with them.
Leon Goltsman (20:35):
So it's always a rewarding experience it would be
, yeah, and I've always jokinglysaid that food is an
international language of love,and I'm still yet to be proven
wrong absolutely.
Cherylin Beever (20:48):
The ladies particularly love to bring their
own food and the same time weprovide Australian food.
So it's it's interestingbecause they'll ask about our
Australian food, or what is thisand we ask about?
There's it's just, you know,that sheer joy because sometimes
the only thing those ladieshave at home is to be cooks or
to be sewers so they can showthis is how we make it and it's
(21:08):
a real tradition, for it's it'sdefinitely something that binds
the community together food andenjoying, enjoying tea.
Leon Goltsman (21:16):
It's about recognising the importance of
adaptability to the differentfood, the lifestyles, the
different communities that youmight encounter.
How has the organisationevolved its programs to meet the
changing needs of the community, especially in light of, say,
the recent global events?
Cherylin Beever (21:33):
Yes, some of the settlement agencies that
deal with dealing withimmigrants coming into Australia
will often let us know thatthey're expecting a group for a
certain country and sometimes wewill give those settlement
agencies further assistance,often maybe in getting jobs.
Again, it's the next thingafter the settlement agencies.
We can make.
The settlement agencies do awonderful job in getting them
(21:56):
settled, in, set all theirthings up for them, and
sometimes we're meeting thosepeople maybe six months further
down the track or 12 monthsfurther down the track when
they're ready to engage withmore of the Australian community
.
Often if we have applicantsrequesting employment and they
may have come from a war-torncountry, they will often have a
variety of skills.
They've had maybe a variety ofjobs.
(22:17):
Their qualifications aren'tnecessarily, not usually
recognised in Australia and tohave those validated is an
expensive option which is notavailable to them.
So we try to meet with thempersonally, give them some ideas
of what employment they canobtain and maybe what training
(22:38):
avenues they could go down, andagain tailoring it to the person
.
So sometimes we can get themjobs.
We do have contacts and we findit's those contacts just at
least trying to get them aninterview rather than just have
them on the opening mark becauseby applying for a job they'll
never get considered.
It's just too too many barriers.
So we are able to cater fordifferent groups that are coming
(23:00):
into Australia.
We definitely think we arefulfilling a need, albeit a
small one, but as we've grownwe've been able to certainly
expand our applicants and thenumber of people that are coming
across wanting assistance.
Sometimes we are able to givevalue, but sometimes we are
unable.
But certainly giving themdifferent options so they can
(23:21):
become employed.
Leon Goltsman (23:22):
So, considering your deep connection to the
Hunter region, how do youincorporate local values,
history and community traditionsin the work that you do?
Cherylin Beever (23:33):
I think historically, newcastle and the
Hunter Valley have been alwayswelcome people from different
cultures.
It's a long history of that,dating a long way back.
So some companies that we havecontacts with are always willing
to employ people with Englishas a second language.
So we have contacts there whichmake it easier for those people
(23:54):
to get employment Now thatemployment may not be their
highly sought after job, but itwill be a starting place for
them.
So we value those connectionsthat we can.
Those people will be given a gobecause we do know they have
the skills, but there's thelanguage is often a problem If
their language is not goodenough.
So if it's not good enough toget employment, we then
(24:14):
encourage them to keep doingdoing their english education
lessons and keeping them gettingtheir conversational english up
in the community, gettingoutside their home, getting
outside their school environmentso that they can communicate
and their english can improve sothey can become employable so
look, if companies wanted to, toreach out to you and and to see
(24:35):
what they could do.
Leon Goltsman (24:36):
What is the best way to contact you?
Cherylin Beever (24:46):
Our website is wwwhunteradultsfcorgau and you
can contact me as the secretaryon 0407 290 861 or drop me an
email.
No problem, I'd love to hearfrom you.
We are always open to peopleasking for help.
It may be that we can providesome creative, something
different.
Sometimes we have employmentproviders or disabilities
contact us, asking for somethingthat maybe they can't offer in
(25:08):
their scope because we've gotdifferent avenues.
One such example is we had adisability person contact us and
they had a gentleman who washaving some issues and we were
able to mentor him, meet withhim and we allowed him to
purchase some camera equipmentwhich was helping with his
online hobby and in further downthe track he was, he got his
(25:33):
motion which helped hisemotional well-being, and he was
able to get back into full-timeemployment and is now mentoring
some younger people throughabout his life experiences.
So that was a really greatexample of us providing
something other than just astraight job people, empowering
people, and that really is whatcommunity is all about
(25:54):
absolutely people helping oneanother, providing solutions.
That's is what community is allabout Absolutely people helping
one another providing solutions.
That's definitely what ourcommunity needs more people
helping each other and beingnice to each other.
Leon Goltsman (26:05):
And speaking of people being nice to each other
and helping each other, Isuppose if people wanted to
they're not a company, but theystill wanted to volunteer and
help the best way is still geton the website.
Cherylin Beever (26:17):
Absolutely.
On the website we are alwayslooking for volunteers and
sometimes it can be justsomething small.
It could be a once-all.
It doesn't have to be acommitment to weeks of anything
else.
We don't specifically have anytraining.
They don't need to come with ahuge amount of skills, just
(26:39):
passion and knowing that theywill fall in love with the
people that they are workingwith because they are so open,
friendly and full of gratitudefor anyone that wants to help
them.
Leon Goltsman (26:50):
And this is why I love doing what I do because I
get to speak to remarkablepeople like yourself.
Thank you so much for your time.
Thank you for taking the timeto speak with me and to connect
with our audience.
I'm sure they're going to lovethis podcast as much as I loved
creating it with you.
Cherylin Beever (27:10):
Thank you so much.
It was a lovely opportunity forme to reflect on our journey in
our charity for the last twoand a half years and has been
very vital for our organisationto reflect on what we've done
and how we are going to continueto move forward to make
differences in people's lives.
Leon Goltsman (27:22):
And that brings us to the end of another
powerful episode of EngagingConversations.
What an inspiring discussionwith Cherylin Beever from HAFC
this has been.
If there's one key takeaway,it's this Employment is about
more than just a paycheck.
It's about confidence,contribution and breaking down
the barriers that prevent peoplefrom standing on their own two
(27:44):
feet.
Whether it's a refugeenavigating an unfamiliar system,
a small business ownerstruggling to stay afloat or
someone rebuilding after asetback, the right support can
make all the difference.
And it's not just theindividuals who benefit.
All the difference.
And it's not just theindividuals who benefit.
When we empower people tosucceed, businesses grow,
(28:05):
communities thrive and we allbecome part of something bigger.
From Newcastle and LakeMacquarie City Councils to Orica
, to families and localbusinesses, hafc is proof that
when we work together, everyonewins.
These are the stories that needto be told, stories that remind
us of the power of opportunity,resilience and human connection
(28:28):
.
If you want to learn more aboutHAFC or how you can be a part
of the solution, check out thelinks in the show notes.
Now, before we go, I want togive you a glimpse of next
week's episode, because it's oneof those you truly don't want
to miss.
I'll be speaking with Theo vanBusen from Morissette Op Shop,
(28:49):
formerly known as ADRA, anindividual who believes that
everything and everyone deservesa second chance.
Theo isn't just running an opshop.
He's transforming lives,creating community and proving
that the small actions can leadto something extraordinary.
It's an inspiring conversationabout purpose, generosity and
(29:09):
the unexpected ways we can lifteach other up.
Thank you to our audience, ourguests, our sponsor and the
entire team who make thisprogram possible.
I'm your host, Leon Goltsman,and until next time, stay safe,
stay inspired and let's keepmaking a difference together.
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