After years of hanging around the ‘wrong crowd’ and a stint in youth detention, Katrina is making a positive change

A program aimed at training Aboriginal youth offenders fresh out of detention for the building, civil and construction workforce has seen its first cohort successfully graduate on Friday.

The first cohort of a pilot program, an Academy Aboriginal Work force which gives Aboriginal youth an opportunity to join the work force after leaving juvenile detention has just graduated. Picture: Keryn Stevens

After spending New Year’s Eve locked up in youth detention, encouraged by years of “hanging around the wrong crowd”, a former detainee is set to enter the workforce after turning it around.

On Friday, 16-year-old Katrina*, not her real name, was one of seven youths who have spent time in juvenile detention, and have now graduated from a program aimed at giving young Aboriginal offenders a second chance.

Growing up, Katrina said she was always “angry” and surrounded by other young people feeling the same, who often committed serious crimes.

“When I was about 13, I was hanging around the wrong crowd, they were stealing things, going on crime sprees, stealing clothes and wanting to fight every weekend,” she told the Advertiser.

Mihail Lochowiak (middle), Academy Aboriginal Workforce Participation Officer and Mentor, standing with Katrina* (left) and another graduate. Picture: Keryn Stevens

“I grew up thinking that was the right thing to do, and once I stopped talking to them and I removed all these people from my life, I actually realised how life is meant to be.

“I was always just an angry person all the time and I wasn’t really the person I should’ve been.”

Upon leaving youth detention in January, Katrina’s life took an unexpected turn after her father died suddenly in March.

Her father was pursuing a career in the construction industry, which inspired her to “follow in his footsteps”.

“I realised that I needed to get my s**t together,” she said.

“I decided to do it for my dad, and do it for my mum because I’ve just found out that she’s got heart failure, so it’s for both of my parents.”

After her last court appearance, Katrina found out about the Aboriginal Youth Pathways to Employment Pilot from her youth justice worker, and jumped at the opportunity.

The two-week program, which is run by the SA Aboriginal Building and Civil Construction Academy (SAABCCA), is designed to prepare participants with the required accreditation and skills for six months of paid work.

Managing Director of SAABCCA, Allan Jones said the program could change the lives of youth who have come into contact with the justice system.

Katrina* after her graduation from the Aboriginal Youth Pathways to Employment Pilot. Picture: Keryn Stevens

“This program is linked to real job opportunities and provides participants with the opportunity to change their life trajectory,” he said.

“Our Aboriginal Workplace Participation Officers, like Mihail Lochowiak, a Central District SANFL player, provide holistic mentoring to Aboriginal jobseekers to navigate any life barriers.

“I have been extremely impressed with the dedication of this first group during the training component of the program.”

The state government has announced a $600,000 investment towards the program over the next two years.

Human Services Minister, Nat Cook said it was a “significant step” towards lowering recidivism rates.

“This initiative represents a significant step towards changing the life trajectory of Aboriginal young people who have come into contact with the youth justice system,” she said.

By providing tailored training, meaningful employment, and holistic support, we aim to equip participants with the skills and confidence to break the cycle of reoffending and build a better future.

This pilot program is more than just a training initiative, it offers Aboriginal young people the chance to redefine their future and contribute positively to their community.”