A young refugee client has been supported to get a driver's licence as he sets out on a pathway to employment.
HSP client Sheroze Labib was referred by AMES Australia staff at Noble Park to the D2E (Driving to Employment) program and was provided with ten free driving lessons.
Sheroze and his siblings were initially connected to AMES Youth Services in December 2019 who have been working with him and supporting this family.
AMES Australia Youth Engagement Specialist Namatullah Qasmi said Sheroze was focused on getting a licence so he could find a job.
“Sheroze was disappointed with VicRoads because he couldn't sit for his drive test as early as he wanted. We explained to him that this was due to his age," Namatullah said.
“The COVID-19 situation put even more stress and anxiety on Sheroze's mental health, because his driving test date was postponed.
“Finally he had a chance to go ahead and attend his test. He wasn't successful in his first attempt, however we worked together with his work broker Jane Tierney so Sheroze could book his driving test again. This time he was successful!
Sheroze, originally from Pakistan, was also supported to prepare a resume so he could apply for a job. He has previously in the hospitality and food and beverage industry.
With a licence and through AMES Australia's IPP scheme, Sheroze was able to find casual work in a factory but he is keen to find a full-time job.
Sheroze's driving instructor said he was a great student to work with.
“He was desperate to gain his licence. Sheroze asked me to really point out anything that was even slightly incorrect, he was extremely receptive to my advice, and could see how it made a big difference. It really felt like teamwork," the instructor said.
“It was so rewarding to guide Sheroze with AMES' support all the way through this process. To say he was delighted is a huge understatement," he said.
This update is written by AMES Australia Media Team.