Young People's
Stories

Looking after a young son while trying to finish high school was a demanding challenge for Zalie, whose willingness to accept gentle supports led to renewed control and independence.

As a teenager, Amy-Lee struggled with not being able to manage substances and gambling, was in an unhealthy domestic violence relationship, and eventually ended up on the streets. When BYS helped her into hotel accommodation during the COVID-19 lockdowns, she was able to access consistent ongoing supports that changed her life.

Dylan faced many challenges in his young life, eventually finding the supports he needed at BYS through a serendipitous connection.

Raven, originally from the Gold Coast, became homeless her infant needed critical care at a Brisbane hospital and she had nowhere to sleep for months. BYS became the only constant in her life through the challenging times to follow.

Homeless, hopeless, and alone, with a physical disability affecting less than 1% of the population – James didn’t think there was reason to hope before coming to BYS. With no work experience, job, licence, car, or knowledge of how to survive – alcohol and cigarettes became his top priority to cope with the traumatic events he experienced.

Shannon’s experience has inspired her to help future generations of young people know they are not alone and to encourage them  to seek support.

With support from a Young Families worker, Fotina overcame parenting challenges and found renewed belief in herself and an inspired direction for the future of her young family.

Sleeping rough and using alcohol to cope with life, Lucy’s world looked grey before a doctor’s referral to BYS began a journey of self-discovery and transformation.