AMI GIVES LIFELINE TO LONG-TERM UNEMPLOYED.
“If you give these guys an opportunity, and place them in an environment and in a role that suits them and makes the most of their talents, it can help your business. They’re very happy to be at work, they bring a positive vibe, and the customers respond to that. I’d encourage other businesses around here to consider doing the same thing. They might be surprised at how much it improves their business.” – Ami Tran, employer for Ostara Australia job seekers
At the relatively tender age of 25, Ami Tran is already an extremely successful businesswoman. She owns two popular restaurants – one in Moonee Ponds and one in Sunbury – and a roaring catering business.
Ami’s business model is quite simple: hire staff who are passionate about their work, and treat them well. She values attitude and work ethic over all other traits: she says you can teach skills, but the right attitude isn’t so easy to train.
If they’re passionate about being here, they will do a good job, whether they’re preparing food or dealing with customers.
Ami also has a social conscience, and believes businesses have an obligation to use their status as employers to benefit their local community. She worked with Ostara Australia to find people from the communities around her restaurants and who would be pleased about having a job.
Kristina Comfort is one of those people – you can see her here with Ami. Kristina lives with a mental illness, and had been struggling to find a meaningful job before coming to Ostara Australia for assistance.
She’s now working as a kitchen hand, washing dishes and also helping to prepare food like dumplings and skewers. Ami has said that she wants to create a comfortable atmosphere for all her staff to work in. If it takes a little longer with some people, she still knows it will be worth it. In all, Ami employs seven Ostara Australia clients across her businesses that perform a range of jobs from waitressing to kitchen hands. She firmly believes that a person who has had to overcome barriers in their search for a job often makes the most committed, loyal and passionate staff member.