The Empower Program, delivered by the Swan Hill Rural City Council Youth Support Program is celebrating a major milestone as Petelo Vave, its first client in Robinvale, opens his own barbershop.
Three years ago, Petelo Vave embarked on a journey with a clear vision: to establish his own barber business. With the guidance and support of Empower Engagement Officer Jess Kei, Petelo has successfully 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.
Empower Engagement Officer Jess Kei said Petelo's journey began through his rigorous training at the Victorian International Academy in Melbourne, where he earned his Certificate III in Barbering.
"During his formal training Petelo developed the skills and confidence needed to excel in this industry and for the past 24 months, he has been serving his community from a home setup, building a loyal clientele and quickly outgrowing his initial space.
"Recognising the demand and his growing confidence, Petelo took the next step and opened his own shopfront at 41 Herbert Street - a location with historical significance as it once housed one of Robinvale's original barber shops.
"His new shopfront stands as a testament to his dedication as well as embracing the support offered by the Empower Program," Ms Kei said.
Ms Kei expressed immense pride in Petelo's success despite numerous obstacles he faced.
"Petelo has shown the best of what perseverance looks like. His determination to set and achieve his goals has been incredibly rewarding to witness and he never lost sight of his main goal.
"Petelo's story exemplifies what can be achieved when young people are given the right support and opportunities. We are thrilled to see him reach this milestone and I am excited to see what he will accomplish next," she said.
Council's Director Community and Cultural Services, Bruce Myers said the Empower Program, which is state government funded, will conclude in December this year as the funding will be exhausted.
"Petelo's story remains a shining example of the program's success in nurturing young talent and fostering economic empowerment," Mr Myer said.
Petelo's barbershop is now open for business, and he invites the community to visit and experience his services. Reflecting on his journey, Petelo expressed heartfelt gratitude.
"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.
