Get to know the Bamara team as we introduce you to Connor, our Support Mentor based in Alice Springs. 

Connor is an important part of ParentsNext and Workforce Australia’s Transition to Work at Bamara, helping parents and young participants to achieve goals and find work in their local communities. 

We recently asked Connor a few questions to get to know her a bit better.

Welcome Connor! Tell us a little about yourself and your role at Bamara.

Kia Ora I’m Connor Woods, Transition to Work and Parents Next Support Mentor in Alice Springs. I’m an Ex-Kiwi Galloper who made the switch across the ditch in 2014 to begin a new chapter as a Youth Worker in Alice Springs. 

I’ve been working for Bamara for three months now and enjoy meeting and working with the clients I’ve been working with. 

Part of my role is to be a mentor for young people who come through the Transition to Work program. I assist them in identifying workplace goals and work with them to achieve these goals. Seeing these young people find employment in their chosen profession is the most rewarding experience I’ve ever undertaken.

What are some of your hobbies and interests?

Coaching and playing on the Kiwi Warriors Rugby Team here in Alice Springs. Running ultra-marathons (56km) along some of Australia’s most weird and wacky trails. Volunteering for Operation Flinders and Desert Sports Foundation. Being an average Ballet partner and mentor for my #1 supporter. Going out for horse rides with the Farno (Family) on weekends.

What three words would other people use to describe you?

Outgoing, courageous and generous.

What led you into this line of work?

Back from a very young age I grew up in a town where youth unemployment was at a high and always wanted to play my part in assisting young people in getting into stable employment. Over the years I’ve seen a great change in the families and young people mentored into employment, and the positive affect it’s had on communities in the Northern Territory where I have worked. 

When I heard Bamara was taking on Transition to Work in Alice Springs I was eager to get on board to assist the young people of Alice Springs. Now three months later I’m glad I took the offer as I have enjoyed every moment of it.

What services does Transition to Work and ParentsNext provide for participants?

We assist with resume writing and interview skills, education and training through Steps Training, recognised certifications in trades through Alfie Online Training Apprentices and training opportunities through GTNT.

What does a typical day at Bamara look like for you?

My day to day consists of checking in on appointments and asking if they require any support in activities they may be undertaking. I’ll conduct ParentsNext appointments, organise and attend external provider meetings with other youth services in Alice Springs.

If a young person is enrolled in external training or employment, I’ll check in with them to make sure they know they have ongoing support from myself and answer any questions or queries.

What is your favourite thing about working for Bamara?

Helping the clients I help and hearing every time about the positive impacts both myself and the Transition to Work and ParentsNext programs are having in their day to day lives. I always have the time to sit and listen to a good news story or a positive outcome achieved by Bamara clients. 

The things I love most about living and working in Alice Springs is the warm weather and the friendly Community that lives within.

How has Bamara helped your professional development?

Bamara has helped me in connecting with a new audience as well as developing new skills.

What is the best career advice you’ve received?

Life is like a baseball game when your team is two out and it’s the ninth innings and it’s your turn to take the plate.

Do you have any advice for someone looking to get into a similar line of work?

If you enjoy being a positive role model in the community this is definitely the role for you.

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