Bunji’s Launchpad participants used real-world skills to host a High Tea for older adults in Wollongong and build confidence through the SLES program.

Bunji’s Launchpad participants recently hosted a special High Tea at the Corrimal Community Centre, bringing together clients from allcare’s Out & About program for a memorable afternoon of connection, conversation, and celebration.

The event, held in partnership with allcare, offered a unique chance for young people with disability and older community members in the Illawarra to come together, share stories, and enjoy the joy of intergenerational connection.

Planned, prepared, and hosted by Launchpad participants

As part of Bunji’s School Leaver Employment Supports (SLES) program, participants took the lead in planning and running the High Tea, gaining valuable hospitality and workplace skills.

Participants were responsible for:

Decorating and setting up the venue
Preparing and serving food and drinks
Greeting and interacting with guests
Providing live entertainment

It was a proud day for everyone involved — a chance for Launchpad participants to showcase the confidence and skills they’ve developed, while creating something meaningful for the Wollongong community.

A celebration of inclusion, confidence, and connection

The High Tea also welcomed a special guest, Lord Mayor Tania Brown, who joined the celebration and highlighted the importance of initiatives that bring communities together.

Bunji Launchpad Coordinator, Rosana, opened the event by reflecting on the power of belonging.
“Inclusion is at the heart of what we do,” Rosana said. “When we create spaces where everyone feels valued and seen, we don’t just build programs — we build belonging.”

Entertainment for the afternoon included a Grease-themed performance by Launchpad participants, showcasing their confidence and stage skills while delighting allcare’s clients with music, energy, and fun. The performance was a highlight, reinforcing the value of community participation and skill-building through the Launchpad program.

For the Launchpad participants, it was a real-world learning experience. For allcare clients, it was a joyful outing demonstrating the positive impact of intergenerational community events in Wollongong and the wider Illawarra region.

Strengthening community connections

This event was a collaboration between Bunji and allcare, two organisations that grew from the University of Wollongong’s iAccelerate innovation hub, both committed to keeping people connected, confident, and engaged in their community.

At Bunji, we believe that when people are connected to their community, they live happier, healthier, and more fulfilling lives — and this High Tea was a perfect example of that belief in action.

About the Bunji Launchpad Program

Launchpad is Bunji’s tailored School Leaver Employment Supports (SLES) program, designed for young people with disability ready to explore work and life after school. Through hands-on experiences, community partnerships, and one-on-one mentoring, participants build the skills, confidence, and independence they need to thrive.

Learn more about the Bunji Launchpad program and how to get involved: https://www.bunji.au/bunji-launchpad

Or contact us to see how we can support your transition into work, hospitality, and community life.