We believe in the value that diversity and inclusion bring to our business. 

Katie McLaren is the commercial manager for our Resources & Industrial business who is supporting disadvantaged women to achieve meaningful employment.

Katie pioneered a connection with the Boronia pre-release Centre for Women in Western Australia, opening new paths for women to join our team.

The centre is a minimum-security location where female prisoners and their children stay in a community-style setting, recognising the diverse needs of women in prison. Boronia prepares rehabilitated women for re-entry into the community by offering meaningful rehabilitation activities and work placements. These are designed to address the unique needs of women prisoners and provide them with practical skills.

Through her relationship with Boronia, Katie has successfully connected women to roles within our company, providing them with the opportunity to commence their career journeys with us.

We recognised Katie's efforts by awarding her our Q1 Diversity and Inclusion Award.  Ventia will donate to the charity of Katie's choice to continue the advancement of diversity and inclusion in our community.

I am pleased to be in a position to support women to find new and sustainable career opportunities, particularly those women who don't necessarily form part of our usual candidate markets and may have been overlooked traditionally, says Katie.

Katie chose Zonta House as her chosen charity because of the important work they do in preventing and reducing family and domestic violence, by providing safety planning, risk assessment, case management, advocacy, counselling, coaching and education through a range of programs to support women in our community.

Tim Phelan, Executive General Manager said Katie is a deserving recipient of our Diversity and Inclusion Award.

Katie is a great example of our team members taking extra steps to support and help people in our community. That is what it is all about.

Katie continues her work to help former inmates, refugees, women living in shelters and fleeing domestic violence, and veterans connect with not only Ventia, but our clients and other organisations for work opportunities.
 

Image above: Katie McLaren pictured receiving her award.