Living with workplace challenges and mental health struggles
Mas National’s mentoring program is designed to provide support and guidance to individuals, including those in apprenticeships and traineeships, with confidential mentoring and counselling services tailored to individual needs. Mentees are connected with mentors of all business backgrounds best suited to address their specific requirements.
The program proved especially beneficial for Ballarat woman Elektra Kay, who almost quit her Certificate III in Business Administration. Elektra faced challenges with a toxic workplace, lack of management support and being assigned tasks beyond her job role. This led to a decline in her mental health, “It got to the point where I was contemplating whether it was even worth finishing my course, or if I should just quit because it was really taking a toll on my mental health,” Elektra said.
Experiencing uncertainty, the 26-year-old sought assistance from Mas National, her Australian Apprenticeship Support Network (AASN) provider (at the time), who upon recognising her welfare concerns, enrolled her in Mas’ Mentoring program.
Using Mas’ mentoring support to build motivation and confidence
Through Mas’ mentoring program, Elektra was paired with Mas Mentor Jay Dohnt who provided her with invaluable guidance and support. Jay not only helped Elektra navigate the challenges she faced but also provided her with the tools, strategies and the confidence she needed to finish her Traineeship and find a new workplace.
“The Mas Mentoring program was really good for my work development as it taught me a bit of diplomacy in terms of talking with management in stressful situations. It was also great to have someone outside of my work supporting me and removed from the drama so there wasn’t any bias,” she said.
“Jay was always willing to fit in with my schedule, and he also understood there were sometimes I was in the workplace where I couldn’t necessarily talk so he’d check in with me by text. Having his support was really reassuring,” she said.
With Jay’s assistance, Elektra secured a position at Bupa Aged Care, where she currently supports individuals who are exploring aged care options for the first time, “It feels like I’m actually helping and contributing to people’s lives now. It’s a really good role and I think having my Certificate III made my resume stand out so I think it’s really helped a fair bit in getting me where I am. I’m glad I stayed and completed my course,” she said.
Mas Mentor Jay Dohnt said he is thrilled to see Elektra transform with help from the program, “It’s great to see the positive impact Mas Mentoring has had on Elektra’s well-being. The success of Elektra’s journey is a testament to the effectiveness of Mas Mentoring in addressing any concerns in the workplace. By providing individuals with the necessary support and guidance, the program aims to create a positive and nurturing work environment where employees can thrive both professionally and personally,” he said.
Mas National’s Mas Mentoring continues to empower individuals like Elektra Kay, enabling them to overcome workplace challenges, improve mental health, and achieve their full potential. The program serves as a testament to the company’s dedication to apprentices and trainee’s well-being and its commitment to creating a supportive and inclusive workplace culture.