A decade long career with Water Corporation thanks to the Clontarf Foundation

“After two former Clontarf boys came out to our school and did a talk about what they do for work here, I knew I wanted to be a part of Water Corp too.”

Water Corporation has been lucky enough to have Nick Brahim in its corner for a decade.

“My job is really interesting” Nick explains “I look after all the dosing and treating of Serpentine Dam and any other maintenance required at the site.”

This year, as he celebrates his 10 year work anniversary, our smiling Surface Water Operator reflects on where it all began – through our partner, the Clontarf Foundation.

“Clontarf really helped by keeping me motivated and always tried to get the best out of me.”

The foundation exists to improve the education, discipline, life skills and employment prospects of young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander boys.

Nick humbly said “You can tell they actually care about you. You’re not just a number in the class but more like a family.”

Building supportive relationships, providing a welcoming environment and engaging students in a diverse range of activities allows an opportunity to succeed. Boosting self-esteem and confidence goes a long way in enabling students to participate in society in a positive way.

Nick Brahim and students from Geraldton Clontarf Academy visiting Water Corporation’s Canning Dam

Keeping kids in school

A recent excursion to Water Corporation’s Canning Dam saw Nick host Year 10 and 11 students from Geraldton Clontarf Academy to have a yarn and show them a unique insight into how our facilities operate.

Academy Director Karl Pirrottina said, “The boys now have a broader knowledge of what you do and what you can offer them. They were excited about being out bush and learning how to protect the water from the likes of feral pigs, so they don’t contaminate drinking water.”

Karl explained the program is really beneficial as it aims to achieve better life outcomes for students by getting them to school, staying at school and finding employment after school.

Mr Brahim confirmed Karl’s sentiment, “I never really liked school and would skip pretty often. But then I spoke to some mates at footy who were going to Clontarf and I thought why not give it a shot. I learned pretty quickly they want you to succeed not just in school but after you have graduated as well.”

Currently there are 27 Alumni students employed at various Water Corporation locations across the state. Six of these bright young minds are completing an apprenticeship or traineeship through the organisation.

“I could not recommend Clontarf enough. If you’re lucky enough to have a chance to be part of the Clontarf family, you should grab it with both hands because I guarantee, you won't regret it.” Brahim said.

Students walking along the Canning Dam

We still have a long way to go

At Water Corporation, we recognise the special place and culture of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and know we have a lot to learn from the Traditional Owners of our great country.

To keep conversations open and having employees as diverse and dynamic as the communities we operate in, is an important part of ensuring we provide quality, customer-focussed services.

Nick speaks very fondly of his ten years with the Corporation. “The most interesting part of my role is every day is different and I’m always finding new ways to improve.”

The Clontarf Foundation has grown to support more than 9,800 boys in over 130 academies around Australia. Being one of WA’s largest employer of Clontarf Foundation Alumni students, we have just renewed our important partnership with the foundation for 2021-22.

For more information, visit watercorporation.com.au/partnerships.