The Ladder Step Up Latrobe Valley program has been transforming young people's lives in the Gippsland region since 2018. 

The six-week intensive program upskills participants with the goal to become employment, education and training ready. The program consists of both group and one-to-one mentoring, meaningful opportunities to connect within the community, tailored employment experiences and once-in-a-lifetime experiences to engage with AFL and AFLW players, as the official charity of the AFL Players' Association. 

Recently, five young people graduated from Ladder's flagship program, bringing the total number of graduates to 304! We are so proud of what they achieved in the program including returning to school and exploring employment and TAFE opportunities. We look forward to welcoming them into the Alumni program, where we will continue to support their self-identified goals.

Below are reflections from our recent graduates:

"The support I've received through the Ladder program has been incredible. It's helped me believe in myself and keep pushing forward, even when things weren't easy. I'm ready to keep working hard on myself, and I know that Ladder will always be there to support me as I continue to grow and achieve my goals."

"The best part of the Ladder program has been the people around me. Not only have I learned so much, but I’ve also had the support of people who genuinely care about my success. I’m determined to keep working towards finding a job and hopefully an apprenticeship, and with the ongoing support from Ladder, I know I can do it."

"Ladder taught me that showing up is half the battle. With the support I’ve received, I’ve learned to believe that if I set my mind to something, I can achieve it. I’m excited to keep going, and I know Ladder is always there to help me reach my goals, no matter where they take me."

"I’ve learned that it’s not about the time you spend, but what you do with it. The Ladder program has given me the tools I need to succeed, and the support I’ve received here has made all the difference. I’m ready to achieve my goals, and I know that Ladder will continue to be there for me as I take the next steps."

"The Ladder program has helped me step outside my comfort zone and turn challenges into opportunities. I’ve been supported every step of the way, and I feel ready to continue bettering myself. I know Ladder will always be there to support me, no matter where my journey takes me."