Mahi Tika – Equity in Employment is currently recruiting for the next intake of Waikato-based participants to join the programme in August 2022, with workshops and mentoring taking place online.

Launched by DPA in 2020, Mahi Tika – Equity in Employment is an employment programme in the Waikato region that enhances the employment journey of disabled people.

The programme is designed and led by disabled people, for disabled people who seek sustainable employment. It has been developed in partnership with Waikato Tainui and aligns with the Enabling Good Lives principles of mana enhancing and self-determination. It is specifically designed to make use of the underutilised disabled workforce, focusing on empowering disabled people in the Waikato region to be working or training in the industry of their choice and supporting them to become mentors to other disabled people.

Participants in the programme come together with other disabled job seekers to participate in workshops that build employment skills and confidence. They receive mentoring from Kaitiaki/Enhancers who build trust through individual mentoring sessions and support participants on their individual journeys.

Mahi Tika – Equity in Employment is welcoming applications from anyone who identifies as disabled, is based in Waikato, and is looking for work. They can express interest in the programme by completing a form at https://forms.office.com/r/FvRCbRXfvn or contact MahiTika@DPA.org.nz

The programme is possible thanks to the support of Trust Waikato – Te Puna o Waikato and the Kānoa Regional Economic Development & Investment Unit