In an inspiring turn of events, Huhtamaki recently celebrated the remarkable achievements of their employees who graduated from the Project Ikuna Training programmes, facilitated by Zeducation. The team successfully completed the "Money Confidence" and "Introduction to Team Leadership" courses, marking a significant milestone in their professional and personal development.
Project Ikuna: Empowering Auckland’s Workforce
Since its launch in 2020, Project Ikuna, a dynamic government-funded four-year programme, has supported over 3,600 Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland Pacific workers in gaining essential skills and knowledge to adapt to the future of work. Designed to upskill Pacific workers during work hours, Project Ikuna aimed to improve their adaptability to technological changes and economic impacts, including those brought by COVID-19.
Richard Hodge: Commitment to Staff Development
Richard Hodge, Huhtamaki's Operations Manager, shared his excitement for the programme:
“I am passionate about the welfare and development of my staff, and Project Ikuna provided an excellent opportunity to facilitate this in a familiar and safe environment. The training was well organised, and the staff provided positive feedback. The Money Confidence course allowed staff to achieve their financial goals, while the Leadership training boosted their confidence and knowledge, leading to some truly exciting developments in the workplace.”
Promotions and Positive Outcomes
Hodge highlighted the tangible benefits and promotions resulting from the training:
“Since the Leadership training, I have seen significant growth and development in the team, leading to two well-deserved promotions. The training has empowered our employees, providing them with the skills and confidence needed to excel. The Money Confidence training has helped staff realise their financial goals, and the overall feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. I highly recommend these programmes.”
“Since the Leadership training, I have seen significant growth and development in the team, leading to two well-deserved promotions.
Parul Sawhey: Relevant and Empowering Training
Parul Sawhey, Huhtamaki's Human Resource Manager, emphasised the importance of these programmes:
“These topics were relevant for our business. Money Confidence helps employees plan their lives better, which benefits them personally. The Leadership program provided our managers with tools for team management and growth, boosting their confidence. The excitement and motivation these programmes have brought to our team are palpable.”
The Leadership program provided our managers with tools for team management and growth, boosting their confidence.
Broader Impact of Project Ikuna
Project Ikuna initially offered courses like Future Ready: Money Confidence and Future Ready: Life Online, later expanding to 12 courses, including Assertiveness and Confidence, Preparing for Home Ownership, and Conflict Resolution. Employees completing these courses gain external accreditation, enhancing their career prospects and opening new doors of opportunity.
Tātaki Auckland Unlimited: Supporting Pacific Prosperity
Tātaki Auckland Unlimited, Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland’s economic and cultural agency, plays a crucial role in supporting Pacific workers through various programmes. By lifting the prosperity opportunities for Pacific people, who are often in lower-skilled roles with lower median incomes, they contribute to Auckland’s overall economic success.
The promotions and personal growth resulting from this training are a shining example of what can be achieved when employees are given the tools and support to excel.
A Step Towards a Brighter Future
As Huhtamaki continues to invest in their employees' development, the successful completion of these programmes signifies a significant step towards a more skilled and confident workforce. This commitment to employee growth and development not only enhances individual careers but also strengthens the company’s ability to navigate future challenges with resilience and expertise.
In a world where the nature of work is rapidly changing, initiatives like Project Ikuna offer hope and opportunity, ensuring that workers are equipped with the skills they need to thrive. Huhtamaki's investment in these programmes is a testament to their dedication to their employees' success and well-being, setting a powerful example for other businesses to follow. The promotions and personal growth resulting from this training are a shining example of what can be achieved when employees are given the tools and support to excel.
Interested in learning more about our training programmes for your team? Contact Us
Comments