Ripementoring is looking for an experienced mentor to deliver our Empowered Tiddas Program across local Illawarra, Shoalhaven and Far South Coast regional high schools. Funded under the Department of Education’s School Engagement Support Program (SESP), this role is offered on a sessional or casual contract basis starting at the commencement of Term 4, 2026.
RipeMentoring Pty Ltd
Nowra, New South Wales 2541, Australia Casual / Contract
Relevant qualification in Youth Work, Community Services, or equivalent professional/lived experience in cultural mentoring. Demonstrated experience supporting and empowering young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women (Tiddas) in educational or community settings. Current Working with Children Check (WWCC) and National Police Check (NPC) required. Commencing Term 4, 2026.
Role Type
On-site Contract Casual Associate
Availability: Minimum 2–3 days per week (Monday to Friday) during school terms.
Description
We are seeking an inspiring, passionate, and culturally grounded Facilitator / Youth Worker who can lift up, engage, and support young women to thrive!
The Empowered Tiddas program is a targeted, culturally responsive initiative designed specifically for young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women in Years 8–10 who are showing early signs of disengaging from school and their learning. The program focuses on building self-esteem, resilience, cultural connection, and positive return-to-education pathways.
About the Role
The primary function of this role is to deliver engaging, supportive workshops and mentoring sessions to small, optimal cohorts of approximately 10 students within regional school settings.
Program delivery includes:
- Identity & Wellbeing: Facilitating personal development, self-worth, and mental health resilience activities.
- Cultural Connection: Grounding workshops in community, identity, traditional storytelling, and creative arts.
- Leadership & Future Pathways: Nurturing goal setting, communication, work readiness, and positive academic aspirations.
- Sisterhood & Peer Support: Cultivating safe spaces for open dialogue, mutual support, and collective goal mapping.
You will balance dynamic group facilitation with individualised care coordination, helping participants build the practical skills and emotional resilience needed to successfully navigate their education.
Key Responsibilities
- Deliver Curriculum: Plan and facilitate structured Empowered Tiddas curriculum blocks (including Cultural Identity & Pride, Goal Setting, and Resilience & Wellbeing).
- Engage & Motivate: Use strengths-based, trauma-informed approaches to foster a safe, inclusive, and empowering environment.
- Collaborate with Schools: Liaison with school coordinators, community elders, and families to ensure respectful and collaborative program execution.
- Monitor Progress: Maintain accurate, confidential records of student attendance, engagement levels, and program outcomes.
Essential Requirements
- Relevant qualification in Youth Work, Community Services, or demonstrated equivalent professional/lived experience in cultural mentoring and youth leadership.
- Proven experience working with young people, particularly young Indigenous women, or youth experiencing barriers to educational engagement.
- Strong group facilitation, communication, and interpersonal skills.
- A deeply empathetic, strengths-based approach to youth work.
- Current Working with Children Check (WWCC) and National Police Check (NPC).
- Reliable transport and a valid driver's licence to travel between regional school sites.
Why Work with Us
This is a profound opportunity to directly impact the lives of young women and future leaders in the Illawarra, Shoalhaven and Far South Coast communities. You will be part of a vibrant, purpose-driven team at Ripementoring dedicated to community-led leadership, social impact, and professional mentorship. We offer a supportive, culturally safe workplace where your creativity and passion for mentoring can genuinely shine.
About Us
Ripementoring Pty Ltd is a multi-faceted business incubator, consultancy, and mentoring hub based in Nowra, NSW. Our purpose is to empower individuals, foster social enterprise, and build inclusive community leadership. We champion grassroots development and provide top-tier support services across the region.
Our Commitment
We are a Child Safe Organisation that values diversity, inclusion, and cultural safety. We actively welcome applicants from all backgrounds—particularly Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women—and are committed to creating a respectful, empowering environment for youth, staff, and community.
HOW TO APPLY
To apply for this role commencing in Term 4, 2026, please click apply and submit:
- Resume detailing your relevant experience.
- Cover Letter outlining your passion for mentoring young women and your connection to the Illawarra, Shoalhaven and Far South Coast community.
- Contact details for two professional referees.
Benefits:
- Professional development assistance
- Work from home
Work Location: In person
