Dayna Seymour is a former Ganbina participant, a proud Yorta Yorta woman and has been working as a Ganbina Education Project Officer for the last year. Dayna recently transitioned from Ganbina’s education program to the employment and training program.

We spoke to Dayna about how she’s finding her new role at Ganbina.

How did the opportunity come about to transition into a different role at Ganbina?

As soon as I was employed here I instantly wanted to do well and push myself to work to the best of my ability. In order to do that, I had hopes of moving up and progressing within the organisation. So when I heard that we were advertising for this role, I thought, why not put my hand up and see what I can do within that program? I have a knack for wanting to improve things and make them shine again!

How are you finding the transition from the education to the employment and training program? What has changed in your day-to-day role?

I’m still wrapping my head around it really! Let’s just say I am a perfectionist so I want to make sure I go through the program with a fine-tooth comb and absorb as much information as I can. My day-to-day job is a lot busier, but in a good way. I like a fast-paced workplace and this new role is giving me that. I’m contacting employers at the moment and making sure we have the correct contact information to begin to build partnerships with them.

What are you enjoying about your new role?

I love learning more about the role and how things work. Being in the role for almost two weeks now I’ve already have been a part of some successful stories with my participants, which is just a bonus to this job really and why I love doing it. Learning about universities has been good. I never went to university myself so it’s exciting knowing I will be working close with them and learning how they work inside and out.

In your opinion, what impact does the employment and training elements of the Jobs4U2 program have on the Ganbina participants?

The additional support that is on offer after they complete high school is really valuable. A lot of our participants in our education program aren’t aware of the employment and training program. The employment and training program means they have support up until the age of 25, whether it be through a once a month check-in or assisting them to complete a cover letter or resume. It matters, and I know I appreciated it when I was on the Ganbina program.

What is coming up for participants on the Employment and Training calendar?

I am hoping to start visiting the participants at their university and/or workplace, see how they are going within their space and make sure they have everything they need to succeed. I also want to finalise sign ups and promote our program to let community know we are here!