Australia Post introduces young refugees to the world of opera
Monday, 06 December 2010
In a unique melding of cultures, Australia Post will introduce young people from refugee backgrounds to the world of opera, and give them a chance to meet the stars of a special Opera Australia performance this weekend.
On Sunday 5 December, Australia Post staff will host 15 young people from a refugee background at Opera Australia's Top of the Ops.
The activity is part of Australia Post's involvement as a founding partner of Ucan2, a program run by Foundation House (Victoria's leading support organisation for refugees) to help 16 - 24 year olds who come from a refugee background to integrate into Australia life.
The young people, who are from countries as diverse as Burma, Sudan and Afghanistan, will be special guests at Top of the Ops, a unique concert hosted by Opera Australia, which features young opera talent from the Australia Post Moffatt Oxenbould Young Artist Program.
The Ucan2 participants will get to meet the performers at the end of the concert before enjoying a BBQ and friendly game of cricket and footy by the Yarra River.
Australia Post has been actively involved with the Ucan2 program for the past 12 months. In June 2010 the organisation signed as the founding business partner, committing to providing employment and mentoring opportunities for young refugees.
The Ucan2 participants have been mentored by Australia Post staff to assist with their integration and facilitate education and employment pathways in their first 15 months of settlement into Australia.
Alex Twomey, General Manager, Corporate Responsibility, says participation in Ucan2 is an example of the practical way that businesses can assist the integration of refugees into Australian life.
"The Ucan2 program is a great example of what can be done as corporate Australia looks at practical solutions to promote social cohesion in the community," said Mr Twomey.
"As the founding business partner of program, Australia Post is demonstrating its commitment to Diversity and the creation of socially inclusive communities," said Mr Twomey.
"For minimal financial investment, this high social return partnership between business and community can have a positive ripple effect for generations to come."
Foundation House Executive Director, Paris Aristotle said, "The Australia Post partnership is far more valuable to us than any cheque, and symbolises the way that business can make a real and lasting difference to the refugee community."
"Half of the 13,750 refugees who arrive each year are under 18 and upon arrival most have incredible aspirations for their careers and lives. It's important to engage with them at this pivotal time and facilitate connections with the community.
"The support Australia Post is providing in allowing access to its staff, its workplace and the community is something that money can't buy," said Mr Aristotle.
Many of the young people have recently gained casual work with Australia Post during the busy December peak period, and for the majority it is their first experience of paid work since arriving in Australia.