In March 2023, after a long period of development (and inspired by the epic work of our 2018 Graduate Focus Group), we launched Scarf's Graduate Voice program. Co-facilitated by 2016 Scarf graduate Mel Watson and Scarf Program and Wellbeing Manager Neil Baxendale, the Graduate Voice group comprises Scarf Graduates who've engaged in programs between 2019 - 2024. Current members Mona, Angel, Maher, Wafaa, Ysabella, Sahand, Ndrah and Riya meet regularly to share feedback and ideas which help shape Scarf programs.

The Graduate Voice team get together every 6-8 weeks, sometimes in person and sometimes online. Their discussions are essential to the Scarf Team and Board gaining a deeper understanding of the wants and needs of the young people who sign up for Scarf programs.

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As with all shifts worked by Scarf trainees and graduates, Graduate Voice members are remunerated for their time.

Since its inception, the Graduate Voice group has provided the Scarf Team with incredibly valuable feedback on our Uniform Policy and the way we share images and stories of trainees on social media. Initial discussions have also included how to ensure trainees are being adequately challenged by the Scarf team and mentors as they progress through the program, how to handle difficult conversations with diners, and how the Scarf team can most effectively support graduates in the post-program period.

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L to R: Angel, Wafaa, Riya, Ndrah, Mel, Sahand, Maher and Mona following a Strategic Planning workshop at The Commons. Photo: Roger Ungers

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From late 2023, and into mid-2024, Graduate Voice members have been providing invaluable feedback on the new work experience model Scarf is piloting in 2024. They're also contributing to important work alongside the Scarf Team and Board as we renew our Strategic Plan. In particular, the graduates are providing essential insights to ensure we understand why Scarf exists, and undertaking workshops to review and refine the organisation's values. 

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The beauty of the Graduate Voice program is that it belongs to the graduates themselves. They are building something very special, and are becoming increasingly confident in using their problem-solving, negotiation and critical thinking skills to help us drive the organisation and its programs forward. The Scarf Team and Board are privileged to work alongside the Graduate Voice group, as we continue to enable future Scarf trainees to overcome their barriers to employment.

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The Graduate Voice group and some of the Scarf Team undertaking a Values exercise during a Strategic Planning workshop at The Commons in July 2024. 

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Graduate Voice members Angel, Mahabub, Ysabella and Mona setting the ground rules for Graduate Voice during one of the group's first meetings at Worksmith in 2023. 

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Cover image: Graduate Voice Strategic Planning session at The Commons in July 2024. Photo: Roger Ungers