Kristen wasn’t looking for a handout. As a single parent of two, she’d always been fiercely independent. But life had thrown her some curveballs. Raising a child with special needs while battling epilepsy herself left her feeling isolated and struggling to find employment. The stigma surrounding her condition made things even harder. “It felt like I was falling into a dark hole,” she remembers.
A glimmer of hope arrived through Tursa employment and training organisation. Reaching out for help was a big step, but TURSA met her with compassion, not judgement. “They didn’t see me as another statistic but as a person with potential,” Kristen says.
With TURSA’s support, Kristen began to rebuild her confidence. They connected her with counselling services, helped her navigate job interviews, and offered practical assistance. Slowly but surely, she started to see a light at the end of the tunnel.
Then came a life-changing moment. TURSA’s employment Adviser, Shayne, saw an opportunity at a local store and introduced Kristen to the manager. The interview went well, and soon, Kristen was starting a new chapter as a sales assistant. “The steady income brought much-needed stability. I no longer worry about putting food on the table,” she says with relief.
But the benefits went beyond finances. The job gave Kristen a sense of purpose again. “I can provide for myself and my children,” she shares, a newfound pride in her voice. “Knowing I have a safety net in emergencies is incredibly empowering.”
Kristen realised she wasn’t alone
Perhaps most importantly, TURSA helped Kristen realize she wasn’t alone. They were a supportive network, rooting for her success. “There are people who genuinely care about my well-being,” she says, her voice filled with gratitude.
Find your inspiration
Kristen’s story is an inspiration to anyone facing similar challenges. It’s a reminder that hope and support are available. Just like TURSA helped Kristen, They are ready and willing to guide you toward achieving your goals. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. You deserve a chance to shine.
It was inspiring to meet Rex. Despite being a little nervous, he was happy to share his story.
Rex a TURSA participant
“TURSA has helped me more than I can describe. Leah, in particular, has been instrumental in assisting me. She helped me with my phone, finding work, and attending the SEE program. They also provided financial support for clothing, petrol, and my registration. They’ve been there for me when I needed it, and I am now employed and becoming more independent”.
Leah, Rex’s Employment Advisor
Leah was excited to share some insights into the transformation she had witnessed with Rex since starting to work with him? “It’s been an incredible journey with Rex. I had been trying to contact him for about 3 or 4 months before finally getting in touch. We discussed how we could help him when he came into the office. We started by providing Rex with a phone so we could stay in contact. We soon realized that he needed support with technology and literacy. Rex was very open to receiving that support, and his courage throughout this process has been immense. I’m amazed by his progress. Just a few weeks ago, he even bought his first book”
Rex jumped in at that point. “Yes, Ironman and I’m already halfway through it. Reading it has been quite an adventure, and I’m really enjoying the story”.
We truly want to thank you, Rex, for sharing your story and exciting progress about your employment journey and taking on the challenge of your first book. And thank you, Leah, for your valuable support throughout this journey. It’s truly inspiring to witness the positive impact TURSA has had on Rex’s life. We wish you continued success in your reading and all your future endeavours.