OUR PROGRAMS
Free to Feed’s programs are centred in the power of the wisdom and talent that migrants, refugees and people seeking asylum bring with them to Melbourne. We acknowledge that translating this wisdom and talent into tangible steps forward in Australia can be tough for people who face very real barriers to social and economic inclusion here. We acknowledge the work that we all have to do, as a society, to “deepen the welcome” to those whose pursuit of freedom and safety continue long after they’ve entered our shores. We acknowledge that feelings of freedom and safety in Australia are not simply about being safe from harm, but need to be built from opportunities to create a stable livelihood and to be valued and recognised in our society.
Our program draws from best practice, research and our own experience working with people from asylum-seeking and refugee backgrounds who have passion and skills in food. In its design, we have been guided by trauma-informed practice, and theories of acculturation, psychosocial rehabilitation and empowerment in the context of the resettlement experience.
EMPOWERMENT, COMMUNICATION & LEADERSHIP PROGRAM
WHO IS IT FOR? People of asylum seeker or refugee background who seek to explore the expressive and connective power of their food and stories in Australia.
WHY IS IT NEEDED? This stream does not prescribe a particular future pathway; instead, it nurtures and supports participants’ exploration of the connective, expressive and advocacy power in the Australian community. We think of this as the ‘deep arrival’ stream, empowering participants to discover and master the tools and opportunities to authentically represent themselves and their culture here in their new home country.
WHAT’S INVOLVED? The 9-month program combines paid professional development in communication, leadership, self-care, paid opportunities for food/story expression through FTF events and comms, wellbeing & deep community support along the way.
CONTENT MARKETING INTERNSHIP PROGRAM
WHO IS IT FOR? A 3-month professional development internship for young people of refugee and migrant backgrounds who are seeking to professionally develop in digital marketing, storytelling and content creation.
WHY IS IT NEEDED? The digital marketing economy has seen significant growth, and there is a skills shortage in Australia for digital marketing and content creation. These factors underscore the urgent need for programs to up-skill the workforce.
WHAT’S INVOLVED? The program addresses barriers experienced by young people of refugee backgrounds, seeking careers in digital marketing, communications and content creation. Interns will gain meaningful work experience and on-the-job learning with FTF’s Marketing team, equipping them with skills to enter the digital marketing industry with increased confidence and credibility.