POWA Nominated for Community Training Initiative of the Year

We’re proud to share that IUIH is a finalist for the Community Training Initiative of the Year at the 2026 Queensland Training Awards – North Coast region for Work Skills POWA for Mob Project.

Proud Wakka Wakka, Butchulla and Wiradjuri man Duncan Roma is one of our deadly trainees who came through the Work Skills program just over a year ago.

He said, “I was referred into POWA by the agency I was working with at the time. I had just left school and looking at what I wanted to do for work. I started doing my traineeship with the Deadly Choices Events team a year ago. When I finished, I was offered a permanent role, which I have been in now for six months. I really love it and I don’t see myself ever leaving this role!”

His advice for anyone thinking about a POWA traineeship?

“Give it a go and try your best. It was a great chance to learn what it is to work in a professional environment and develop your skills within a team of great people. You won’t regret it.”

This nomination highlights the strength of our POWA programs, the dedication of our people, and the meaningful outcomes we’re achieving through training and development initiatives.

Being shortlisted for this award places IUIH among leading organisations driving positive change through community-focused learning. It recognises:

• our commitment to delivering accessible, high-quality training
• the real-world impact of our initiatives for individuals and communities
• the passion and expertise our team brings to every program

This achievement reflects a collective effort across the organisation – thank you to everyone who has contributed.

Winners will be announced at the Queensland Training Awards regional ceremonies in July, with state winners revealed at the State Gala Dinner in September.

Regardless of the result, this is already something to celebrate. It reinforces the important role POWA plays in empowering communities and creating opportunities through education and training.

Let’s take a moment to recognise this milestone and wish the team the very best of luck!

If you’d like to know more about our traineeships, please check out our page: iuih.org.au/powa