In a collaboration between Evero Engineering and The Skill Engineer, a new initiative has launched to empower disengaged teenagers in the Kimberley region of Western Australia.
The program provides an alternative path for students to acquire valuable skills in welding and engineering outside of the traditional education system.
Aptly named Probu Dedleewun, meaning “awesome” in local Indigenous language, it has truly lived up to its name. Not only has it taught participants essential skills, but also provided them with an opportunity to build their own heavy-duty electric scooters.
“We recognised the need for stronger and more durable parts for electric scooters, so out of our Wangaratta workshop we created metal prototypes to replace the plastic components on the scooters,” said Brendan Ritchens, Managing Director of Evero Engineering.
This innovative approach will enhance the robustness and longevity of the scooters, making them better suited for the conditions in Broome, Western Australia.
After construction and dismantling, the scooter packs were boxed back up and made their way over to Broome in May, on a 3,000 km trip across Australia.
The collaboration between the two companies was driven by a shared commitment to empower young individuals through hands-on learning experiences.
“It’s essential to equip the younger generation with valuable skills that will prepare them for the future,” said Brendan.
The hands-on nature of the program, combined with the prospect of building and keeping their own scooters, proved to be a powerful motivator. Some participants even voluntarily attended the workshop on days off, eager to continue their progress and expand their knowledge.
Throughout the program, the teenagers aged between 15 and 18 not only acquired practical skills but also developed important life skills, such as teamwork, problem-solving, and perseverance.
The first co-hort of students have now successfully completed the 10 week program, also gaining recognition on a national level, with media outlets across the country highlighting the program’s success!
We’re proud of our involvement with this program and look forward to what lies ahead!
For more information on the Probu Dedleewun visit: theskillengineer.com.au/probu-dedleewun
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