KARI is proud to announce its appointment as the provider of the new Metropolitan OCHRE Opportunity Hub, expanding support for Aboriginal students across Greater Sydney as they transition through school and into further education, training and employment.
The appointment builds on KARI’s successful delivery of the Greater Western Sydney Opportunity Hub which was launched in November 2022. During this time, the program has supported Aboriginal students to build confidence, strengthen connections to culture and explore pathways into further education, training and meaningful employment.
The stories shared by students, teachers and school communities over the past three years reflect the impact the Opportunity Hub program has had on the lives of young people. From growing confidence and stronger cultural identity to clearer career aspirations, the program continues to empower Aboriginal students to achieve their goals.
“Before joining the Opportunity Hub, I wasn’t sure what opportunities were available to me. Now I feel like I’m more confident about my future and I just know there are people who support me.” Student
“I actually look forward to Opportunity Hub every week. I’ve learned more about my culture, met new people and it’s helped me think about what I want to do after school.”.- Student
“It’s been great watching the students grow over the past few years. They’re more confident, they’re building stronger relationships and they’re genuinely excited about what comes next after school.” – Teacher
Josh Marlowe, who has managed KARI’s Greater Western Sydney Opportunity Hub and will lead the new Sydney Metropolitan Hub, said “I love seeing the change in some of the kids. They come into the program not really knowing what’s out there, and a couple of years later they’re talking about careers, uni, apprenticeships or whatever they’re passionate about. That’s what it’s all about.”
Working in partnership with schools, Aboriginal organisations, employers and training providers, the program takes a holistic approach to supporting young people. Students have access to one-on-one mentoring, personalised transition and career planning, cultural activities, industry engagement and ongoing support as they prepare for life beyond school.
KARI CEO Casey Ralph said “Over the past 3 and a half years, we’ve seen firsthand the difference the Opportunity Hub can make in the lives of Aboriginal young people. We’re incredibly proud to build on that success and expand our reach, ensuring even more students have the support, encouragement and opportunities they need to achieve their goals.”
The Opportunity Hub model recognises that successful transitions are built through strong relationships. By working closely with students, families, schools and employers, the program helps young people build confidence, develop practical skills and make informed decisions about their future. KARI’s appointment will enable the organisation to extend its impact, supporting even more Aboriginal students across Greater Sydney to pursue further education, training and meaningful employment while remaining connected to their culture and community.
The Metropolitan OCHRE Opportunity Hub was officially launched on Monday 6 July at KARI’s Liverpool office, marking an important milestone in supporting Aboriginal students across the Sydney metropolitan region. The event brought together government representatives, education partners, Aboriginal community organisations, schools and industry stakeholders to celebrate the beginning of this new initiative. The launch opened with an Acknowledgement of Country by Aunty Gail Smith. Guests also heard from Charishma Kaliyanda, Member for Liverpool; Kelly Pulevaka, Senior Project Officer /OCHRE Opportunity Hub Program Manager and Joshua Marlowe KARI OCHRE Opportunity Hub Manager. Speakers highlighted the importance of supporting Aboriginal young people through education, cultural connection and meaningful career pathways.
As KARI begins this next chapter, the organisation looks forward to continuing to build strong relationships with Aboriginal students, families, schools and community partners. Seeing students grow in confidence, strengthen their connection to culture and look forward to participating in the Opportunity Hub each week is a powerful reminder of the program’s impact.
The Opportunity Hub is funded by the NSW Government.
