Victorian not-for-profit organisation, Doxa is calling on companies across the state to support and change the lives of high-achieving young Australians from disadvantaged backgrounds by becoming a Cadetship Program partner.

The Cadetship Program supports young people from challenging life circumstances to complete university and gain the skills they need for an employable future. Doxa has identified 120 first-year undergraduates committed to completing their education and realising their professional career goals.

Doxa, General Manager Partnerships and Corporate Affairs, Alison Polyik, said the organisation is looking for 120 companies to support these talented and highly motivated students, give them a fresh start and allow them to put their life challenges aside as they move towards a brighter future.

“The students are from lower socio-economic backgrounds and are committed to seeking a better future by completing their university education,” she said.

“Almost all are from culturally diverse families, including from refugee and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island backgrounds and about 33 per cent come from rural and regional Victoria.

“Companies can play a vital role in their journey – one which many young people describe as life-changing.  Our cadetships are more than a scholarship or internship. It is a holistic approach to the development of a young person and giving them professional opportunities they otherwise would not be able to access on their own,” Ms Polyik said.

Doxa supports Cadetship Program partners by providing a shortlist of talented applicants relevant to their sector, building a learning and development framework, providing mentoring and recruitment support as well as on-boarding advice and offering opportunities for employees to participate in the Cadet’s Professional Development Program.

Since 1993, more than 400 young people have participated in the Doxa Cadetship Program. It is open to Year 12 students transitioning into university and is a three to five year program, depending on the length of the degree the student is undertaking.

Studies show that for all university students from disadvantaged backgrounds, only one in three finish their degree. This compares to 88 per cent of Doxa cadets, who also have the confidence and professional skills to support their transition into professional life.

Doxa is a Victorian not-for-profit organisation that provides programs for young people so that everyone can access positive life experiences, educational opportunities and employment pathways.

To get involved or for more information on the Doxa Cadetship Program, visit www.doxa.org.au.