Zalie | Brisbane Youth Service

Finishing high school was a challenge for young mum Zalie, whose willingness to accept gentle supports led to renewed control and independence.

I was first connected with Brisbane Youth Service through my high school who wanted to provide me with extra support. In May 2021, I connected with the Young Women and Young Families team to learn about Circle of Security and gentle parenting to help me cope with the challenges raising a two-year-old boy brings.

BYS, Daisy, and her team supported me through my parenting, alongside numerous of life challenges. From Circle of Security, I learnt about “Bigger, Stronger, Wiser, Kinder” and that I am in control. This reassured me that I was being the best mum and I could be. After some time with Daisy, it became apparent that my son’s behaviour was beyond my parenting knowledge. BYS connected me with Child Health services where I learnt that my son is struggling with neurological difficulties. Daisy has helped me gain further access to further services assisting me with investigation of possible Autism.

Throughout the last year, I’ve had many struggles financially when gaining my independence. BYS gave me a helping hand in providing me with food vouchers and phone credit, as well as supplying me a fridge and TV when I first secured my first private rental. I have also been a part of the Positive Transitions Project, working with Eli, who provided support with clothes and preparation for interviews to reach my goal in employment. This gave me a higher level of confidence which was successful! With all of BYS’s encouragement, I pushed myself to do better, which blessed mw with an opportunity for a new role in the law firm within four months.

Throughout the last year, I have been involved with several programs and services BYS has to offer. I am beyond grateful for BYS’s understanding and non-judgemental environment. I thank the gentle, caring nature of the youth workers who have helped me immensely, taking some stress off my shoulders and guiding me through difficult situations. I want to continue on this successful path and show other young people that it is possible to pursue your dreams and overcome your fears when you put your mind to it and believe in yourself. It all starts with talking to someone and saying “Hey, I really need some help.”