THE Empower Program is celebrating a milestone as Petelo Vave, its first participant from Robinvale, opens his own barber shop.
Run by the Swan Hill Rural City Council Youth Support Program, the effort focuses on helping young people who have disengaged or are at risk of disengaging from family, education, or community.
The program seeks to help people identify and achieve their health, career, and wellbeing goals by addressing barriers and connecting them to opportunities for education, work, and training.
Three years ago, Mr Vave embarked on a journey with a clear vision — to establish his own barber business.
With the guidance and support of Empower engagement officer Jess Kei, he turned his dream into a reality.
Ms Kei said Mr Vave’s journey began through training at the Victorian International Academy in Melbourne, where he earned his Certificate III in Barbering.
“During his formal training Petelo developed the skills and confidence needed to excel in this industry and for the past 24 months, he has been serving his community from a home setup, building a loyal clientele and quickly outgrowing his initial space,” she said.
“Recognising the demand and his growing confidence, Petelo took the next step and opened his own shop front at 41 Herbert Street; a location with historical significance as it once housed one of Robinvale’s original barber shops.
“His new shop front stands as a testament to his dedication as well as embracing the support offered by the Empower Program.”
Ms Kei said she had immense pride in Mr Vave’s success despite numerous obstacles he faced.
“Petelo has shown the best of what perseverance looks like,” she said.
“His determination to set and achieve his goals has been incredibly rewarding to witness and he never lost sight of his main goal.
“Petelo’s story exemplifies what can be achieved when young people are given the right support and opportunities.
“We are thrilled to see him reach this milestone and I am excited to see what he will accomplish next.”
Swan Hill Rural City Council community and cultural services director Bruce Myers said the State Government-funded Empower Program will finish in December when the money runs out.
“Petelo’s story remains a shining example of the program’s success in nurturing young talent and fostering economic empowerment,” he said.
Mr Vave’s barber shop is now open for business, and he invites the community to visit and experience his services.
“I’d like to say a big thank you to my family and friends who volunteered their time to help renovate and set up the shop,” he said.
“It was a lot of hard work, and a remarkable transformation compared to what it used to look like.
“I am deeply grateful for their support and everything they have done for me and my business.”
