When I applied for Larita Academy, I had a simple goal. I wanted help and advice that would support my journey to becoming a Youth Worker. At the time, I was unemployed, but I was determined to take every opportunity I could get.

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A lot of that motivation came from my past and my family. Seeing how tough things had been growing up, and watching my dad not do much with his life, pushed me to try and build something different for myself.

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Going into the Academy, I wanted to learn about managing money, running a future business, and how to work my way towards becoming the person I wanted to be.

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One of the most valuable experiences was meeting artist David Bromley and hearing about his upbringing and mental health struggles. As someone with Autism and dyslexia, listening to his story gave me hope. He showed me that challenges don't have to define your future.

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One lesson has stayed with me:

“You can't succeed in life doing nothing. Your hard work will always come back and bring you to success.”

Another moment I will never forget had nothing to do with me.

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One of the friendships I made at Larita had a big impact on me. During the Academy, I learned that a new friend was going through a difficult time and could really use some support. When I saw there was something available through the graduation auction that could help them, I decided that every time I earned Larita cash, I would give it to them. By the end of the Academy, they had enough Larita cash to win it.

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Seeing how happy she was meant everything. She cried, and I was proud and happy for her. That moment showed me what people can achieve when they support each other.

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Since graduating, Larita has continued to influence my life. I've become more confident speaking up and speaking in public. I've also changed the way I think about saving and spending money. One habit I've kept is saving at least $100 every time I get paid.

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The Academy also helped me say yes to opportunities that I might have turned down before. Recently, I was offered a job that requires travelling by plane. Before Larita, I most likely would have said no. Instead, I said yes because I realised opportunities like this can help me go far in life.

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Perhaps the biggest thing I learned about myself is this:

“I learnt that I have a voice. It may not be strong at the moment, but it will grow louder and bigger as time grows, and I can use that voice for a lot.”

That lesson has already shaped how I move through the world. I’ve recently contacted several companies to ask why they didn't include an Acknowledgement of Country on their websites. It matters to me that my people and our lived experiences are recognised.

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Everyone arrives at Larita with different stories and different reasons for being there. I was one of those people. I left with more confidence, a clearer direction, and the belief that my voice matters.