At Underwear for Humanity (UH), every pair of underwear you purchase tells a deeper story—a story of resilience, empowerment, and community-minded action. As a customer, you’re already making a conscious choice to support ethically sourced products, but what if we told you that the positive impact of your purchase goes far beyond the materials? What if the way your items are processed plays a crucial role in uplifting vulnerable communities, providing not just employment but hope for the future?
Enter Brett Young, Head of Operations at Social Engine in Melbourne, a key partner in UH's supply chain. Brett oversees a program that directly supports Afghan women refugees by giving them the opportunity to reintegrate into society through meaningful employment.
"We work with people who’ve been through a lot," Brett shares. "Many Afghan refugees come to us with almost no employment history, often fleeing traumatic conditions. They may have been in India for six years or more without the legal right to work, and when they arrive in Australia, they’re starting from scratch. That’s where we come in."
The warehouse where your UH products are processed isn’t just a place where tasks get done; it’s a hub of learning, collaboration, and community building. The Afghan refugees working here are taught essential soft skills and gain hands-on experience in processing orders for UH. This vital step in the supply chain serves as a launchpad for many to find long-term employment and financial independence.
“Most, if not all, of our participants have been denied mainstream employment opportunities through no fault of their own. Our partnership with Underwear for Humanity allows us to build self-worth and belief within our participants while learning valuable employment skills. UH provides real work, real orders and requires attention to detail in handling an outstanding product. The pick, pack and dispatch process of UH orders, stock placement and stock-take are completely transferable skills. Once mastered individuals have the confidence and ability to be transitioned into similar or other employment opportunities,” says Brett.
Why This Matters
Imagine arriving in a new country, uncertain of your future, unable to work, and with no way to support your family. For many Afghan refugees, this is their reality. Government support in the form of small payments might help keep them afloat, but without employment, they are left without a sense of purpose or stability.
Brett explains, “These individuals are often highly skilled but cannot use their qualifications here due to language barriers or lack of local experience. By integrating them into our operations, they learn skills that will help them navigate the Australian job market. We’ve had incredible success stories—women who’ve never had the chance to work in their lives are now thriving in roles where they process and dispatch UH products with incredible attention to detail.”
Processing isn’t just about moving products from one place to another—it’s about developing confidence and empowering individuals. For many of the women who work with Brett, it’s the first time they’ve been allowed to work, and the pride they feel in contributing to their household is immeasurable.
A Community Effort
What makes this initiative even more special is the sense of community it fosters. Afghan refugees are blended with young Australians who face their own obstacles to employment, creating an environment where both groups learn from each other. “There’s a bit of a language barrier at first,” says Brett, “but we’ve found that speaking English on the floor helps them improve quickly.”
The success stories speak for themselves. One standout example is Rakila, who spent years in India without the opportunity to work. Now employed in a local warehouse, she is supporting her family and inspiring her siblings to follow in her footsteps. “Rakila is just one example of how this program changes lives. She’s gone from having no prospects to becoming a beacon of hope for her family,” Brett shares.
How You Can Help
As a customer of Underwear for Humanity, you’re already part of this change. But if you’re looking to do more, here’s how you can support this incredible initiative:
- Donate your time – Consider becoming a mentor or offering support to Afghan refugees navigating their new lives in Australia. Even a simple conversation can make a difference.
- Employer partnerships – If you’re a business owner or manager, consider providing employment opportunities for refugees. A little flexibility and understanding can go a long way.
- Hire Social Engine - By choosing Social Engine's services you'll not only fulfill your business requirements but also create meaningful employment for refugees and disadvantaged youth.
Get in touch with Social Engine at brett@socialengine.org.au to find out how you can get involved. Your support can make a huge difference and help build a brighter future for these individuals.
