INDIGENOUS ENGAGEMENT

The promotion of Indigenous employment and training is also considered by Mendi as business as usual and a critical aspect of closing the gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians - not only in the construction industry, but as a flow on effect into the broader community.

Mendi recognises the greater opportunity and beneficial relationship that can develop through a constructive relationship that respects Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island communities built on recognition, promotion and understanding of the Aboriginal culture and heritage.

A Mendi success story

After graduating Bwgcolman Community School on Palm Island in 2014, identical twins Neil and Kenny made history by becoming the first Palm Island school-leavers to go directly into employment as a result of securing traineeships with Mendi.

In 2015, Neil and Kenny, with the support of Mendi, made a brave decision and major transition to life on the mainland, moving to Townsville, allowing then to continue their Certificate II Civil Construction Traineeships. Through close mentoring from senior Mendi personnel Neil and Kenny successfully completed the Civil Construction Traineeships in 2016.

Neil and Kenny both worked extensively at the Queensland Country Bank Stadium project. When asked what working for Mendi meant to him Neil commented:

“Working for Mendi has been a life changing experience for me. It has given me a sense of direction in my career pathway for construction and delivered many professional and personal development opportunities. I am very fortunate to have achieved this training and development, this training has given me empowerment, sense of accomplishment, sense of satisfaction in myself and my ability.”