Opportunities from a job in Hell
Employment at Hell Pizza Ka¯ piti has unlocked a new world of opportunity for aspiring chef Trevor Oakley.
Trevor, 22, from Raumati South, is one of 140 people who have come through the Active in Hell (AIH) programme since its inception in 2013.
The initiative, run by Hell Pizza with the help of IHC’s Idea Services, helps young people with intellectual disabilities enhance their job prospects by undertaking paid training at its stores over a six-week period.
Hell Pizza chief executive Ben Cumming said Trevor’s story epitomised why AIH was started.
“We’re very proud of Janiece and Trevor, and of the inclusive culture promoted by our Hell franchisees. We created AIH to provide participants a real taste of a work environment, and to act as a stepping stone for future employment opportunities.
“Our hope is always that trainees leave with greater confidence and useful skills that will help them find permanent employment.”
Trevor joined in 2018 and works two two-hour shifts every week. The experience of his training and permanent employment has benefited him across many aspects of his life.
He has been able to move out of his dad’s house to share with a flatmate who also completed Active in HELL training. It has also increased his social confidence.
“My co-workers are great to work with, and I’ve learnt how to communicate better with people and how to handle new responsibilities.”
Store owner Ivan Shi said Trevor took to it naturally and was quick to master the basics.
“We’re all very proud of Trevor. One of the first jobs he was given was making the pizza bases.
“He worked hard at it and is now faster than nearly every new employee that comes to work for us.”
AIH national coordinator Krissy Gain said AIH stood out through its scale and commitment to paying every participant.
“The fact that Hell pays each trainee is outstanding in terms of fostering the individuals’ sense of independence, and I believe that Hell is the only company in New Zealand to offer an opportunity like this on such a scale.
“It’s also incredible to see the positive affects the training has.
In addition to the workplace skills they develop, participants gain greater confidence, purpose and independence.
“I really can’t speak highly enough about this programme and it’s fantastic to have such a pioneering employer like Hell on board.”