Fresh fades and fresh futures for Ipswich at-risk youth

The T2S program, funded by the Queensland Government, supports young people aged 15–18 years who want to gain the skills they need to change their lives and build a better future.

For Ipswich-based participants, that means participating in a barbering training program, advised Senior Transition Officer Uchenna Hammond.

“We had a lot of young people saying they were interested in barbering,” said Ms Hammond.

This led to TAFE Queensland educator and barber shop owner, Junior Faamalele, leading the delivery of a Certificate II in Salon Assistant (SHB20216) while mentoring the participants in a salon environment. 

The young barbers-in-training had the opportunity to gain real-world experience in a working business, while being supported by local not-for-profit organisation, The Neighbourhood, which also provides boxing and jujitsu programs.

“It’s been an absolutely amazing course,” said Ms Hammond.

“This is the second time we’ve run it, and four young people have now completed their Certificate II in Salon Assistant (SHB20216), while others have started foundational units with a view to continuing their studies.”

The program’s success goes beyond qualifications. Participants gain transferable skills in customer service, retail, and hospitality — skills that open doors to entry-level jobs and apprenticeships. 

TAFE Queensland South West General Manager, Kate Venables, said programs like T2S reflect TAFE Queensland’s core purpose.

“TAFE Queensland delivers contemporary, industryrelevant skills and training that creates real opportunities for people, employers and our local communities,” Ms Venables said.

“This program is a perfect example of that mission in action.”

One fifteen-year-old graduate said the program changed his outlook on life. 

“I wasn’t at school, just lounging around,” he said. 

“I train at The Neighbourhood and was watching the barbers. One day they offered me the chance to do the course, and I said yep, straight up.”

He enjoyed the hands-on experience and now hopes to continue his training.

“Hopefully I’ll do a Certificate III in Barbering and gain an apprenticeship,” he said.

“The educators supported me heaps — picking me up, letting me cut hair on Mondays and Fridays. If you have difficulties learning, this is a skill you can pick up quickly.” 

Another graduate said the program gave him confidence.

“At first it was hard, but after a couple of weeks I started putting the effort in and saw something coming out of it,” he said.

“I’d recommend this course to anyone who’s a hands-on learner.”

A contributing factor to the strong engagement rate was the way TAFE Queensland adapted the delivery model to meet the participants’ needs. 

Working closely with T2S and The Neighbourhood, the program team created an environment that felt less like school and more like community. 

Participants wore TAFE Queensland branded shirts, which gave them confidence and helped shift perceptions. A feeling of belonging and pride amongst participants was powerful and made a huge difference to engagement and outcomes.

The program has already led to employment opportunities, with some participants securing jobs and others preparing for apprenticeships. For many, it’s a fresh start.

“This isn’t just about certificates,” said Ms Hammond. 

“It’s about giving young people real-world skills and experiences so they can go out and get jobs. TAFE Queensland has been so flexible and innovative in helping us make this happen.”

Ms Venables believes the partnership demonstrates how vocational education can change lives in the local community.

“When you see these young people graduate, knowing they’ve gained practical skills and a sense of purpose - that’s what makes all the difference,” she said.

With plans to expand similar offerings in Toowoomba, the T2S program is proving that practical, community-based training can change lives. 

Meet TAFE Queensland educator and barber shop owner, Junior Faamalele, leading the delivery of a Certificate II in Salon Assistant (SHB20216) as part of the T2S program.