“What matters most to us is the impact we have on the lives we touch.”

Paul Allam (left) played a pivotal role in creating a modest bakery aimed at aiding Karen refugee women at an orphanage straddling the Thai-Myanmar border.

Back in Australia, he helped pioneer the Bread and Butter Project, which became part of a growing movement of social enterprises nationwide.

The $20 billion impact of Australia’s social enterprises

“They also provide 89,000 jobs for people that would otherwise be shut out of work.”

Tara Anderson, CEO of Social Traders, said social enterprises create 89,000 jobs for people who would otherwise be jobless. Source: SBS / Spencer Austad

Many social enterprises are funded through trade — the products they make or sell — and often provide first jobs for people facing significant barriers to employment.

“Every year in Australia, social enterprises like the Bread and Butter Project create 16 million hours of employment for people like Ben,” Anderson said.

Bread, belonging and a pathway to work

Among the graduates is Samia Salhab, who is now working full-time as a trainer. The mother-of-three said she is grateful for a new start in Australia after fleeing the civil war in Syria.

Samia Salhab (right) and Ben work closely at Sydney’s Bread and Butter project. Source: SBS / Sandra Fulloon

“It is a responsibility, a big responsibility to teach the trainees and many are from different cultures,” the 45-year-old said.

“Our program is life-changing. Many would not be able to secure ongoing work on their own without our support,” she said.

“So, now I am very happy to work here, and Samia is teaching me everything.”

Although still a new hire, Ben has already earned a reputation for focus and motivation. Source: SBS / Sandra Fulloon

At the bakery, Ben is learning new skills through hands-on training. Although still a new hire, he has already earned a reputation for focus and motivation.