Swan Hill Rural City Council have celebrated a major milestone with the Empower Program, delivered by their Youth Support Program.
Their very first client in Robinvale, Petelo Vave, has just opened his own barbershop.
Three years ago, Petelo set out with a clear vision to launch his own barber business.
With the support and guidance of the Empower Engagement Officer, he’s turned his dream into a thriving reality.
The Empower Youth Program focuses on supporting young people who have disengaged or are at risk of disengaging from family, education, or community.
The program helps these individuals identify and achieve their health, career, and wellbeing aspirations by addressing barriers and connecting them to opportunities for education, work, and training.
Petelo expressed heartfelt gratitude at the help he has received.
“I’d like to say a big thank you to my family and friends who volunteered their time to help renovate and set up the shop. It was a lot of hard work, and a remarkable transformation compared to what it used to look like. I am deeply grateful for their support and everything they have done for me and my business,” he said.
