Hoera, a Dannevirke local, had long wanted to become an electrician but the pathway was unclear or seemingly out of reach for him.

When the Mayor and MTFJ coordinator visited him at Dannevirke Dairy Services (DDS), Hoera met them and immediately offered to make them both a cup of tea which was a wonderful introduction to him.

Through MTFJ and the owners at DDS, Hoera found himself being supported into and through his apprenticeship. His manager said “Hoera works hard, not only here during the day but also keeping up with his assessments, often doing three training modules per night so that he can take his assessments on, or ahead of time. We can see the passion in his learning.  Hoera fitted in well with everyone from day one.  We're a small team and it's vital that we're all comfortable together and Hoera is now, well and truley, a part of our team".

Since starting in July 2024, MTFJ has supported Hoera with the tools of his trade, his full and forklift driving licences and various Health & Safety training, including Asbestos Awareness and Height Safety.

The Mayor said “The MTFJ support offered to Hoera sets him up well for the role and makes the commitment of taking on an apprentice a little easier for DDS".

The Mayor presented Hoera with a Certificate of Sustained Employment, recognising his commitment to the MTFJ programme and to Dannevirke Dairy Supplies.

More information on the Mayors Task Force for Jobs can be found on the TDC Council website at: https://www.tararuadc.govt.nz/.../mayors-taskforce-for-jobs