The initiative, run by the Worker’s Educational Association (WEA) Hunter Foundation, helps young women facing hardship get back into training, education and employment. The aim is to help break the generational cycle of unemployment and welfare.

“Before I joined this project I was unsure of what I was capable of in life. I didn’t think I had a future ahead of me,” said 24-year-old mother of two Billi-Anne Flanders.

“But since being a part of the project, I have learnt so much, gained more confidence and new skills, and I feel like I’m on the right track. 

“I want to become a police officer, and this project has made me believe I can do it,” Ms Flanders said. 

The Village project’s Youth Services Officer Angela Griffith, said the aim of the project is to help young women explore their futures and fulfill their aspirations. 

“The project is about building up their self-esteem and confidence, and showing the young women that they can do more than they think they can. 

“We want to empower them to change their lives and the lives of their children,” Ms Griffith said. 

Project members complete a Certificate Two in Skills for Work and Vocational Pathways, one business unit, and two units from Hospitality Two.  

Several speakers have also addressed the project, educating the young women in areas including mental health, nutrition, interview preparation and motherhood. 

“I want to prove to my kids that they can do anything they put their mind to, and this group is helping me do that,” said project member, 21-year-old Shalienne Sky.  

“Before I joined this project, I was unsure of what I wanted to do and how to go about trying to find out,” Ms Sky said. 

“Now I know I want to be a pastry chef, as I’m really good at making desserts. I love that it’s a job where you can get really creative. 

The project has given Ms Sky more confidence and motivation to get back into education and get a qualification. 

“I want to complete my Higher School Certificate and start a TAFE course in pastry making,” Ms Sky said.

The women also work in the Books and Beans Cafe at the Raymond Terrace Library one morning per week.

This develops their management, customer service and communication skills, as well as getting work experience on their resumes. 

“Watching these women gain confidence and skills over the course of the project, seeing them start to believe that they can do more than what they’re currently doing, it’s incredibly rewarding,” Ms Griffith said. 

The project started last year as a mothers and babies educational class, but over the last six months has transformed into the education and employment initiative it is today.

“I would highly recommend those young women who feel lost, or suffer from low self-esteem or anxiety, or those who didn’t suit the traditional education system, to get involved with this project,” Ms Flanders said. 

“I’m really motivated to come back this year. I can’t wait,” she added.

​The project runs two days a week for 20 weeks, and the new session begins on Tuesday, February 7. Young women, with or without children, can enroll. 

For more information, contact Angela Griffith on 0418 715 378 or email agriffith@weahunter.edu.au. .