A Second Chance for Elaine Hickey

Elaine Hickey from Western Sydney learned something about herself after receiving support from Women’s Business: Second Chance program.

‘I can do things if I put my mind to it,’ Elaine said.

Elaine learned about the Women’s business hub through her sister who had heard about it through JobActive.

‘My sister and I just started our own business, making Indigenous masks, headbands and scrunchies. We wanted to do more upskilling with our sewing and business skills, so when we are ready to open a shop we will have all the knowledge and support we need.’

Elaine didn’t know what to expect from the program when first meeting the Women’s Business team.

‘We were invited to an information session on an upcoming course which could help us towards our business. Since starting with the women’s business course, I have found this is something the community really needs, a supportive place that feels like home.’

‘We are always well looked after and supported at the hub.’

With increased skills and business knowledge comes confidence, the sort of confidence which leads to a shop for Elaine and her sister.

‘I know that now we can make our business happen with the right support and direction. We can be successful with a bit of help and the right people behind us,’ Elaine said.

Real Futures and the Women’s Business: Second Chance (WBSC) hub are in the business of changing lives. They’ve done that for other women like Ruby and Chantelle, and now Elaine.