The transition from high school or further education into employment is daunting. Being able to set yourself apart from other potential candidates plays a vital part in being able to successfully secure employment. Having guidance and support during this phase not only builds self confidence but also creates optimistic, capable and active citizens.

Project Yumi Inc, through its program Project Wok, aims to empower Papua New Guinean youth with sustainable skills that will help them create the foundations they need to build a successful future. This intensive 1 day program comprises of a four-module targeted job readiness education program that covers resume and application letter writing, job search strategies, interview techniques, and preparing to start work.

The program takes a blended learning approach and participants are supported by young professionals who volunteer their time to guide and mentor them through a series of practical activities. Once they complete their education participants may also be offered work experience placements. The Project Wok program is proudly sponsored by Credit Corporation PNG Limited and CreditBank.

Project Wok is predominantly aimed at the Grade 12 student cohorts of registered participating schools and offers the intensive 1 day Program and a range of In-School Programs. Thanks to the program’s success and growing demand, we have expanded its reach to include Open Programs for former Grade 12 students, and Community Based Programs for unemployed youth. The success of the program for its graduates speaks for itself. 99% of participants graduate from the program. 97% of participants surveyed rated the program as meeting or exceeding their expectations. 99% of participants surveyed said that they felt that they now had a good quality resume, understood how to read a job advertisement, apply for a job and how to prepare for interview and 97% of participants surveyed said that they would recommend the program to others.

Project Wok is currently only offered in Port Moresby. However, Project Yumi Inc is actively exploring how to expand the reach of the program to other provinces.