Young People's
Stories

I grew up in a pretty rough home. My mum was a drug user behind closed doors, and my dad moved on with another partner when I was little.

In my early years at school, I found my world expanding.

I came to Brisbane to study when I was 20. My aunty said she would sponsor me, so I stayed with her. But after only a week, she changed her mind.

Growing up wasn’t easy. I went through things no child should ever have to go through, and it left me with trauma I’ll carry forever.

My mum was around sometimes, but she looked at me like I was a failure. She didn’t think I was going to get anywhere.

In my younger years, I had my share of struggles at home and school.

Before I got in touch with BYS I was residing with my mother, who then at the time packed up and moved back to our hometown.

I joined a young women’s group run by BYS that helps women learn about self-understanding and healthy relationships.