Ember Connect wish to expand the “Elevate – Ember Connect Mentoring Program,” a 12-month initiative supporting 200 First Nations women nationwide in building social capital, economic independence, and personal growth. The project will support women to achieve economic independence, and create a community which lifts women up to pursue personal, professional, and cultural aspirations.
Requested amount: $50,000 from a total project cost of $166,457
100 Women funds have been requested to cover personnel costs and marketing.
Who is the organisation and what is their mission?
Ember Connect Ltd is a First Nations-led organisation based in Perth, WA. Its mission is to empower First Nations women to live a life of choice, focusing on personal growth, economic independence and cultural preservation.
What is the project that the 100 Women grant will support?
The 100 Women grant will support the “Elevate – Ember Connect Mentoring Program,” a 12-month initiative aimed at expanding mentoring opportunities for First Nations women. The project will be conducted nationally through an existing purpose built digital platform. The network currently has 3,200 active members and the mentoring program is building from a successful six month pilot.
Who is the project for? Who else will benefit?
The project is for 200 First Nations women across Australia, with an additional 600 indirect beneficiaries, including their family members. The mentoring framework aims to support participants to not only address individual challenges but also engage with broader societal issues. As mentees cultivate self-awareness, resilience, and well-being, they become better equipped to navigate life’s hurdles. This empowerment extends to economic realms, with professional advancements contributing positively to our community’s economic fabric and fostering sustained economic independence among participants.
Why is the project needed?
There is a need to enhance the social capital, economic independence, and well-being of First Nations women.
The project addresses the cross-sectional disadvantages they face, including lower educational attainment and significant employment disparities. Additionally, First Nation women often experience disproportionate impacts of family violence and cultural disconnection, making targeted support crucial for their empowerment and long term success.
What are the planned outcomes for the project?
The planned outcomes include increased social capital, enhanced economic independence and improved wellbeing for the 200 First Nations women participating in the program. In the short term, participants are expected to build stronger networks, gain confidence in pursuing new employment opportunities, and establish healthier routines. In the long term, the project aims to create lasting economic and social empowerment, fostering leadership skills that will enable participants to positively influence their communities and advocate for continued support and funding.
