Every year Brisbane Youth Services works with thousands of young people and their children, assisting them to overcome challenges and achieve life goals. Here are some of their inspiring stories..
For most of us, a barbecue or a visit to the park are just a part of life but for Jess Taylor these outings are no easy feat. They’re big wins for the young mum who has been quietly carving out a place in the world for herself and her daughter, Annie, all the while finding her voice.
When Scovia discovered she was pregnant she was scared, but when she found out she was having twins, she felt terrified.
For a young person who has spent much of their life homeless, Aiden has a special skill; a small ritual that helps him start each new day on the right side of the bed.
“Everything is different now, even just little things; the way I hold myself, the way I dress. Back then I wouldn’t wear makeup at all and now I’m the opposite – on the weekends, I do not leave the house without putting my face on! I’m sassy now and I have gotten a lot stronger inside.”
“Check out my new kicks!” Gypsy has a thing for shoes. A Queenslander “through and through”, she loves being near the water, “really wants a dog” and is a Virgo, a quality she describes as “the superior star sign”.
David has grappled with more challenges in his young life than most of us ever will. But in a little over 12 months, he’s bravely made his way from sleeping rough to living independently.
Things are looking up for Yazmine, living in a new apartment with her beloved little dog, she is confident about her independence for the first time.
Nine years ago, Aluel came to Australia from South Sudan with her family. At eighteen, she left home, seeking practical support from BYS to establish an independent life, then things got scary…
While our services largely remain operational across the festive season, our Fortitude Valley Youth Support Centre will be closed on the public holidays, opening on Friday 27, Monday 30, and Tuesday 31 December from 1-4pm to provide emergency relief for young people in need.
Normal hours resume from Tuesday 2 January.