IntoJobs, part of the IntoWork Group, has partnered with City in the Community (CITC), the charitable arm of Melbourne City Football Club (FC) to launch a groundbreaking initiative aimed at reducing high youth unemployment rates in southeast Melbourne.
Kicking Goals is a unique program, delivered by Mas National (also part of the IntoWork Group), which combines the power of sport with essential life skills training, providing a supportive and engaging environment for young jobseekers aged 18 to 24.
The program is designed to help participants overcome social anxiety, build new connections, and gain the motivation and confidence needed to succeed in the workforce. Each day, participants receive support from allied health professionals who focus on their mental and physical well-being. They also engage in team-based activities on the field, using soccer as a tool to develop crucial skills such as teamwork, communication, and leadership.
Kyesha LePolite, an 18-year-old participant, has found the program to be life-changing. Having faced significant challenges, including domestic violence at age 15 and social anxiety, Kyesha has seen a remarkable improvement in her ability to connect with others. “The program is incredibly involving. When we first started, none of us knew each other, but it has really helped me with my social anxiety,” she said.
Kyesha’s IntoJobs Mobile Employment Consultant, Kellie Hayes, has been pivotal in setting and pursuing new goals for her. “Kellie has been amazing. She’s put me into a lot of sports-related activities because I prefer to be active. I was a very sporty kid, enjoying soccer, footy, netball, archery, tennis, volleyball, rugby, and even aerial silks,” Kyesha shared. She is eager to volunteer at an animal shelter after completing the program, adding, “Working with animals would be so rewarding.”
Zak Arslan, a 22-year-old participant, has also found the program to be both fun and creative. The practical and interactive nature of the program, along with its supportive environment, has stood out to Zak. “Everyone here is really helpful, supportive, and very inclusive,” he said.
Zak, who has struggled to find work in the past, is particularly excited about the physical activity component of the program. “I’m getting out there because I tend to be antisocial but I lack the motivation to do social things, so being able to do this is really enjoyable,” he said. He hopes to improve his fitness and potentially discover new skills and passions through the program. Zak is also keen to secure a job in a library, where he can apply his diploma in library and information management. “I learned how to manage a library, provide customer support, handle basic IT tasks, and create promotions. Being knowledgeable about books is a great skill, and I’m excited to use it,” he added.
IntoJobs Operations and Performance Manager for Victoria and South Australia, Dallas Quick, said that Kicking Goals was launched in response to a notable rise in youth unemployment in the region. “Our aim was to create a program that not only helps young people get out of bed but also instils in them the motivation and confidence to engage in daily activities and explore their future prospects,” she said.
While the primary focus is on building motivation and confidence, the program also opens doors to various opportunities, such as voluntary positions and potential paid employment through Melbourne City FC and IntoJobs. “Our consultants are dedicated to supporting participants at the end of the program, whether they need further motivation and confidence-building or are ready to pursue job opportunities. We want to ensure that every participant has a clear pathway forward,” Dallas emphasized.
A standout feature of the six-week program is a tournament that participants are actively involved in organising. The tournament and a graduation event will take place on the final day of the program. This hands-on experience in event management is a vital component, designed to foster community engagement and provide participants with practical skills and a sense of achievement. “We are inviting community organisations to join us for the tournament, and our participants are responsible for coordinating everything from catering to attendance. It’s a fantastic opportunity for them to see the impact they can make and to gain valuable experience,” Dallas noted.
Federation University is a key partner in this initiative, offering vocational pathways and courses to participants interested in furthering their education.
CITC Community Programs Coordinator, Antonia Nimmeyotakis, highlighted the program’s goal of integrating sports with the services provided by IntoJobs to maximise benefits for young adults. “I have truly enjoyed the diverse group of participants we engage with, from various cultures and backgrounds. It’s crucial to recognise that not everyone has an easy path, and many come from different areas. Engaging with so many young adults who are in similar situations and need extra support and role models is incredibly rewarding,” Antonia said.
“The outcome I’m hoping for is a cohesive group where everyone enjoys spending time together and feels more confident in themselves every time they come to learn new skills.”
Antonia acknowledged the challenges young adults face in accessing support and services, praising those who take the first step to apply for the program. “It’s very difficult for young adults to find services and seek support. Even the initial step of applying for the program is a significant challenge, so I have immense respect for those who take that first step. It’s the beginning of a journey that can lead to positive changes in their lives,” she said.
The program’s success is evident in its high retention rate, with 12 out of 13 participants returning each day. “It’s inspiring to see the commitment and enthusiasm of our participants. They are showing up every day, and it’s clear that the program is making a positive difference in their lives,” Dallas added.
The partnership between City in the Community/Melbourne City FC and IntoJobs is seen as a significant step in providing the necessary support and opportunities for young adults to succeed. “I am a strong advocate for this program, and I believe it is making a truly amazing impact on the community,” Antonia said.
