EPIC Empower: Holistically Empowering Solo Parents to Thrive

EPIC Empower programme helps solo parents achieve their career goals. With guidance, resources, and a supportive community, we empower them to unlock their potential, explore opportunities, and build fulfilling careers in dynamic industries.


The Unique Challenges of Solo Parents

Barriers faced by solo parents

  • Balancing Work and Family
  • Unequal Opportunities
  • Education and Training
  • Legal Issues
  • Stigma and Stereotyping
  • Knowledge Gaps
  • Financial Constraints
  • Time Constraints
  • Childcare Issues
  • Employment Challenges
  • Social Isolation
  • Mental Health Issues
  • Housing Issues

Current support available

  • Legal Issues
  • Financial Constraints
  • Childcare Issues
  • Job Search Support
  • Housing Issues
  • Education and Training

EPIC's holistic support

  • Developing a strong sense of identity and self-worth
  • Identifying values, motivators and preferred skills
  • Cultivating resilience and determination
  • Fostering innovation and a drive to overcome obstacles
  • Gaining new skills and knowledge for better job prospects
  • Stimulating curiosity and a willingness to learn new things
  • Fostering a sense of empowerment and self-efficacy
  • Identifying and fixing knowledge gaps
  • Encouraging continuous learning and growth
  • Creating structured and organised environments
  • Building a strong support network within the community
  • Enhancing job-seeking and networking skills
  • Discovering alternative career paths and entrepreneurial opportunities
  • Seeking out and benefiting from mental health resources and support

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EPIC LI video

Untapped workforce

73,560 people on the solo parent benefit – 2023 Mako Mama Mangopare Single Parents Project, carried out by Project Gender.

We have more than 7,000 solo parents in the Waikato region alone.

Mako Mama – Mangopare 2022 Online Survey sample by income bracket (annual personal income before tax, n=3,380)

Our Holistic Approach

Incorporating the Te Whare Tapa Whā – the Māori healthcare framework

EPIC stands for

  • Empowerment
  • Participation
  • Inclusion
  • Collaboration

Te Whare Tapa Whā by Sir Mason Durie 1984

1

Empowerment -- Taha Hinengaro (the psychological dimension)

How Do I Know What I Don't know?

Participants explore career motivators and values, fostering a positive mindset towards the world of work. They gain insight into their personal values, work ethics, career drivers, areas of professional interest, relevant skills/functions, and job competencies, which supports mental and emotional well-being.

2

Preparation -- Taha Tinana

(the physical dimension)

Preparing Today for a Brighter Tomorrow

Our skilled coaches offer personalised guidance to assist solo parents in recognizing their strengths, establishing attainable goals, and creating a tailored career growth plan that emphasizes the development of vital skills for career advancement.

3

Inclusion - Taha Whānau

(the family dimension and community)

A Sense of Belonging

Participants connect with a network of peers, mentors, and experts, fostering a sense of belonging and mutual support. Recognising the importance of social connections and family support can contribute to a more holistic approach to career development.



4

Collaboration - Taha Wairua

(Spiritual wellbeing, purpose and connection)

It Takes a Village to Empower a Future

Participants align their professional paths with their personal values and passions while meeting likeminded people. Through the new formed connections, participants are seeking jobs and on a path to careers that resonate with their inner sense of purpose, ultimately fostering a holistic sense of spiritual fulfillment and belonging within a supportive community.

Key Features and Benefits

1

Personalised Career Support: Participants receive a customised career roadmap and one-on-one coaching. This tailored guidance helps them recognise their strengths, establishing attainable objectives, and forging distinct career paths within their selected industry, ensuring relevant and impactful personal development.

2

Skill-Building Workshops: Participants engage in interactive workshops designed to discover career motivators and values, promoting a healthy mindset towards the world of work. They enhance professional skills such confidence building, interview techniques, and negotiation strategies, equipping participants with essential tools for career success.

3

Flexible Learning Formats: The programme offers a mix of virtual and in-person learning opportunities, allowing solo parents to balance their schedules and commitments effectively. This flexibility makes the programme accessible and adaptable to diverse needs.

4

Supportive Community and Networking: Participants connect with a network of peers, mentors, and professionals who provide guidance, advice, and empowerment. This supportive community fosters a sense of belonging, mutual support, and valuable industry connections.

Inspiring Success Stories

Sarah, Single Mom - Rediscovering My Potential

Before joining the EPIC program, I felt compelled to take any job, regardless of pay, just to make ends meet. As a stay-at-home mom, I undervalued my capabilities and settled for less. EPIC introduced me to various career paths and interests I hadn't considered, empowering me to realise my true skills and potential. This newfound confidence helped me secure a more rewarding job that balances my professional aspirations and family needs.

Amelia, Solo Mom - Broadening Horizons and Opportunities

"Working part-time as a cleaner and studying, I knew I wanted more for my future. EPIC broadened my horizons by enhancing my knowledge and skills, opening doors to work-from-home opportunities. This shift relieved me from the physical stress of traveling and labor-intensive jobs. Thanks to EPIC, I now have a larger network and the confidence to pursue well-paid jobs that suit my life as a mother in a small town."

Jasmine, Single Mom - Balancing Career and Family Life

Before EPIC, I didn't realise the importance of work-life balance. The program showed me how to improve my job situation without sacrificing family time, greatly enhancing my emotional and family well-being. I now enjoy a fulfilling career that not only meets my professional goals but also allows me to be present for my family, nurturing my spiritual well-being by aligning my work with my deeper values.

Layla, Solo Mom - Overcoming Self-Doubt

I struggled with low self-esteem and self-criticism due to the challenges I faced. EPIC helped me gain control over my life, accept my strengths and limitations, and build a brighter future. The support from Pratz and the network I gained through the program have been instrumental in my journey. I encourage others in similar situations to join EPIC and realise their potential, just as I have.

Why now?

Dual Impact: Supporting Solo Parents and Shaping Future Generations

Systemic Influence: improvements in a mother’s employment, mental health, and social stability enhance the child’s environment, leading to better developmental outcomes.

Economic and Emotional Stability: meaningful employment reduces stress and improves the home environment, which is crucial for a child’s emotional and cognitive development.

Social Modeling: Children benefit from seeing their parents engage in positive social networks and professional environments, which fosters a sense of possibility and aspiration.

According to the recent 2022 Mako Mama findings online survey sample of 3,531 solo parents, 96% of the survey participants were women, 32% of Solo Parents have children under 5 years, 44% have children aged between 5 and 13 years, and 30% have children aged between 14 and 18 years.

Frequently Asked Questions

1

Who is eligible for the programme?

Our programme is open to all solo parents, regardless of their current career stage or industry.

2

How much time is required?

The programme is structured as an 8-week course, requiring a commitment of 2 to 3 hours each week. We provide a combination of self-paced learning and scheduled sessions to fit into busy schedules.

3

How much does it cost?

We offer resources, extensive support, personalized coaching sessions with expert career coaches, and opportunities for mentorship. This encompasses building connections with recruiters, engaging with employers, and exploring educational avenues. Discussions regarding pricing are available upon request.

4

What support is available after the programme ends?

Participants receive ongoing support, including access to our network of professionals, continued mentorship, and resources to help them navigate their career paths.

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Ngā mihi - Thank you!

Contact

Pratishtha Purohit- pratishtha@epicempower.co.nz

+6421331894