Empowering our Aboriginal employees
We offer a number of diverse opportunities to support the growth and development of our Aboriginal employees.
Backed by a community that believes in them, 3 of our employees - Shane Ward, Naomi Garlett and Jane Hopkins have demonstrated remarkable growth in the workplace, balancing their work and personal commitments.
Their stories inspire us to stay curious and humble, seeing each step as a shared success.
A journey of self-discovery
A graduate in the Aboriginal Employment, Strategy and Reconciliation team within our People and Safety Group, Shane Ward has embarked on a journey that speaks to the power of education and collaboration.
As part of his graduate placement, Shane is pursuing a Certificate IV in Career Development – a path that’s allowing him to not only enhance his skills but also discover new facets of his abilities.
Shane said his experience has been one of learning and self-discovery.
“Seeing myself grow in this field is encouraging,” Shane reflects.
“Using video, spreadsheets, brainstorms, and research techniques seems very innovative and unpacks theories, studies, and research in an academic way that I really enjoy and am challenged by.
“Seeing myself grow in this field is encouraging and discussing the units with other colleagues exposes me to their skill sets and on the job training and experience. I have a great time learning and collaborating and am sure this course will help me in my roles and career progression at Water Corporation."
Shane (far right) with employees at National Reconciliation Week earlier this year.
An enriching experience
With years of experience in recruitment and Aboriginal workforce development, Naomi saw an opportunity to formalise her skills through the same Certificate IV in Career Development.
As the Coordinator of the Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) within the Aboriginal Strategy and Reconciliation team, Naomi’s experience has been both enriching and reflective.
“I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the workshops delivered by Rachel from Betterlink,” she said.
“Apart from developing in an area I’m interested in, I’ve also had the opportunity to share stories, collaborate ideas and strength relationships with my Aboriginal colleagues.
“As a group, we’ve been able to support each other through monthly study groups which has allowed us to balance study and work responsibilities with ease.
“This qualification will give me further confidence in my own decision-making abilities, offer a higher level of service to internal/eternal job seekers and apply learnings to the current career development services.”
Naomi at the Future Footprints expo.
Team work makes the dream work
As an Aboriginal Employment and Development Advisor, Jane Hopkins works with our Aboriginal employees to understand the best ways to realise their dreams, including how they would like to reach their full potential within the water industry.
More recently she’s spent time reconnecting with her heritage while helping our indigenous employees in Ngarluma country (Western Pilbara region).
“I’m based in Perth; however, Water Corporation recognises the importance of travel in my role to Ngarluma country to support our employees that work in the region.
“My Nan (Peggy) was part of the stolen generation – she was 3 years old when she was taken from her family and her home in Ngarluma Country (Roebourne).
“I am so grateful I now get to work with employees on Ngarluma country and visit family. It allows me to continue to build my families’ connection to country and our culture, which is all part of the healing process.”
Jane works closely with our Aboriginal employees to help them realise their full potential. She values the face-to-face interactions that are crucial in Aboriginal culture and appreciates the diverse strengths of her team.
“I love working with my team and the Indigenous employees I support,” she said.
“My team are such incredible professionals, deep in culture, each with their different strengths. I also love that Water Corporation understands Aboriginal ways of working – such as understanding how important a yarn face-to-face is with Aboriginal employees.”
Just 7 months into her role, Jane enjoys the important work she does, helping our employees thrive as they shape WA’s water future.
Jane with the Aboriginal Employment Development team.