‘Bett’ on Barry: Moving Forward, One Step at a Time

At 63 years old, Barry Betts, a proud First Nations man, has faced more than his fair share of challenges. After being unemployed for nearly four years, Barry’s life took a transformative turn when he recently joined Inspiring Brighter Futures Foundations’ Onwards & Upwards to a Job Program through the Local Jobs Program Wivenhoe.

A structured group training program, which includes one-to-one mentoring sessions, is conducted over four weeks and delivered to job seekers who have been unemployed for one year or more. The ages of participants range from 18 to 65 years.

Barry’s perfect attendance at the program was a testament to his dedication and determination to turn his life around, despite being the primary carer of his granddaughter from time to time. Barry’s impact on the program went beyond just his presence, as he naturally assumed the role of an Indigenous elder and mentor within the group. His wisdom and experience became invaluable assets, not only to himself but to his fellow participants.

In a heartfelt video capturing his journey, Barry shared how “The program uplifted me and helped others build confidence in finding work and applying for jobs.”

Barry’s enthusiasm and spirit earned him the nickname “Queensland,” as he proudly sported Queensland Maroons’ gear to and from the program. He participated in all the physical activities and team-building challenges, further solidifying his role as a leader and motivator.

Barry was introduced to the program through Enterprise and Training Company (ETC), which is a community-orientated, not-for-profit provider of employment and training services.

Through this program and beyond, Barry has continued to engage well with ETC and finally taking up its offer of driving lessons and participating in Indigenous mentoring activities. These include yarning circles and invitations to men’s groups, where Barry continues to share his wisdom and support others in their journeys to employment and self-discovery.

At Barry’s graduation from the Onwards & Upwards Program, ETC staff were proud to attend and congratulate him. During the ceremony, Barry’s chosen values – honesty, respect, kindness, and family – were displayed and read out for the group.

Barry’s journey from long-term unemployment to becoming a mentor and leader within the program is an inspiration to many and a testament to his motivation as a customer of ETC Richlands. ETC couldn’t resist asking Barry to take another picture when he returned for his first face-to-face appointment post-program. Barry’s Jobs Advisor, Nusi, and Regional Recruitment Manager, Mikayla, ensured he made a cultural connection with Indigenous Employment Consultant, Jess, to maintain the support network.

Local Jobs Program Employment Facilitator, Wivenhoe Region, John Perry, said the Wivenhoe Local Jobs team works closely with Inspiring Brighter Futures Foundation on evaluation and review and sees the Onwards & Upwards – to a Job program as very successful in returning long term unemployed people to the workforce and significant in reducing that cohort from 73% to 59% of the regional caseload in the past 18 months.

“Barry’s story is a testament to the transformative power of community support and the importance of programs that uplift and empower individuals,” John Perry said.