Social enterprises deliver significant benefits for disadvantaged or marginalised segments of society that need assistance to transform their social or economic prospects. For individuals they provide meaningful work and skills development and provide a pathway into mainstream employment. In this way they also reduce unemployment in a region and contribute to increased connections and community vitality. From a broader perspective, social enterprises have the potential to grow established businesses and drive inclusive economic growth.
The individual and community benefits achieved from social enterprises were the drivers behind our Chief Executive Officer, Robbie Millar’s International Fellowship report. Robbie has grown up and worked in the Wimmera Southern Mallee for over 19 years and is passionate about improving the lives of disadvantaged people across the region. The region suffers from many challenges including poverty, marginalisation, disengagement with education, and difficulties gaining employment. However, through his work at the Centre for Participation (CfP), Robbie saw the opportunity of social enterprise to address these social problems, improve lives and strengthen the community.
