Network links workers and business

By Shaun Inguanzo
A DANDENONG agency is helping link young people across Melbourne’s south-east to local businesses and educational facilities.
The South East Local Learning and Employment Network (SELLEN) is also known as one of the ‘Four Ss’, along with South East Networks, South East Melbourne Manufacturers Alliance, and South East Development.
SELLEN community partnerships coordinator Alex Palazzolo said SELLEN’s goals were to retain the region’s young people in local employment and education, rather than lose them to other regions.
“SELLEN has over 200 members – schools, local businesses, training organisations, youth welfare agencies and individuals – and we’ve worked with, in one way or another, over 1500 young people last year,” he said. “Too many local young people are still slipping through the net and missing out on crucial training and employment opportunities.”
Mr Palazzolo said SELLEN was a valuable resource for young people seeking a second chance at learning or employment.
“SELLEN is committed to working with our network members to give 13 to 19-year-olds a better go at staying at school to complete their schooling and successfully moving from school to work, or getting that all important ‘second bite of the cherry’ if they have left education but want to return to get more or better skills,” he said.
Mr Palazzolo said SELLEN ran initiatives in conjunction with Greater Dandenong’s business groups, such as Shadow a Manufacturer Day, allowing young people to gain an insight into local manufacturing.
“We also showcase special events including a trade show featuring building and construction career opportunities, a general careers expo, a Try a Trade program and some specialist career events including an event exploring career opportunities in local government,” he said.
“SELLEN will also be running a region wide Job for A Day program, linking a large number of businesses with young people in a major local event promoting work skills for young people.”
To find out more about SELLEN visit www.sellen.org.au, call 1800 216 693 or email dmin@sellen.org.au.