How Jonathan landed his dream job as a barber

In his mind, Jonathan had pictured his dream job with a comb in one hand, pair of clippers in the other, while working his way through the perfect fade. 

As a young dad, Jonathan first connected with our team in Taree through the ParentsNext program in January 2022, his primary goal was to gain the qualifications required to achieve his long-term goal of becoming a qualified barber, which harnessed his attention to detail, creative energy, and community spirit all while earning a decent wage in an industry that is both rewarding and growing at the same time. 

Jonathan was also seeking local guidance, support, and a structured approach to achieve his goals. 

During their initial catchup, Jonathon teamed up with Bamara’s Support Mentor, Mervyn, and they mapped out a pathway plan for his study and work goals. To get a taste of what was required to break into the industry, Mervyn helped Jonathan to enrol in the Certificate II in Salon Assistant qualification to develop his skills and knowledge for any industry environment.

Mervyn then helped Jonathan to enrol in a Certificate III in Barbering. This course would help Jonathan to sharpen and develop his knowledge and technical skills, with work placement further enhancing his chances of employment. Jonathan completed his training with flying colours, with his course fees covered through the ParentsNext Participation Fund.

Through this funding, Bamara also provided Jonathan with a laptop to complete his training and PPE gear, such as appropriate workwear and boots, to help him during his work placements. Merv also went the extra mile and helped Jonathan to access additional financial support through the Pensioner Education Payments and the Return to Education Payment to help meet his study and career goals.

Having picked up casual work at a local barber in Taree to further hone his skills in the trade in January 2023, and with his confidence and motivation growing by the day, his employer was so impressed by his attitude and skills that he accepted the opportunity to kickstart his career as an apprentice barber in May 2023.

Today, he is interacting with his customers and honing his skills and techniques in an immersive environment alongside experienced and talented hair stylists who are now mastering their trade.  

Merv credits Jonathon’s success down to his determination and passion for gaining the qualifications and experience to help him to realise his career goal. 

“Jonathan put his learning into practice and to secure an apprenticeship so he could start his career journey,” says Merv.

“Jonathan has not only secured work but has taken the first important steps to establish a rewarding career, and I’m so proud to have seen it all work out for him and his family.” 

Connect with our ParentsNext team

Our ParentsNext service helps you identify your goals – whether they’re family-focused or career-driven – and provides you with or helps you access the resources you need to work towards, and ultimately achieve, those goals.

We listen to what matters most to you and your family. Our dedicated team of experienced Support mentors will provide individualised support to help you achieve your goals.

Contact us today to get started.