Arno Olivier’s mentor and supervisors at Porirua City Council were ready to offer him a job at the conclusion of the Mahi Rangitahi work experience programme.
The 10-week pilot had six students from Aotea and Porirua colleges spending time in different parts of the organisation, including our Finance, Parks & City Services, Partnerships and IT divisions.
At an afternoon tea last week to celebrate the conclusion of the programme, Mark Hammond and Charmaine Berkland, from Parks & City Services, said Olivier would be a great addition to the team.
“Working outside fits with his personality and he never shied away from anything,” Mark said. “He cracked straight into his work each time he was given a task and it was very cool to have him on board.
“When can he start?”
Olivier said he thoroughly enjoyed his day each week working out of Ngā Taupuni (the depot, in Prosser St).
“I got comfortable with different tools and it was good to learn professional routines. I really enjoyed it.”
Student Christian Mata had a varied 10 weeks in the Partnerships team, attending meetings to do with local body elections and a regional economic workforce plan, and even getting his hands dirty at a tree planting.
Christian’s manager Shaun Freemantle said the young man had been given some “meaty” jobs and his youth and excellent attitude meant he added value.
Kyle Gardner, meanwhile, said the confidence gained from doing real life tasks with the IT team was important.
“I had to learn to not sleep in…. but I gained a lot of very real, practical experience, which I’m grateful for.”
Council’s Senior Advisor Organisational Development, Sandra Rodgers, said the 10 weeks went by incredibly fast, but it was a valuable experience for everyone involved, from the students to the mentors and managers.
“It was great to see Council staff taking the time to teach and develop students understanding of their chosen roles. The mentors also did a great job coaching and supporting our young people throughout the placements.
“It was a pleasure to watch these young people learn about Council and be inspired by their experiences.
“This was our first go at a programme like this, but all the feedback has been positive and we will definitely look to do it again next year.
“Putting young people at the heart of our city is a strategic priority for Council, and this programme really fits in with that goal.”
Other skills the students learned were how to build a CV, applying for a job, being interviewed, and how to prepare themselves for a day’s work.
11 Oct 2022
