At Story House, we know that every journey is different, and Helena’s story is one of courage, growth, and heart.

When Helena moved to Australia in 2018, it was meant to be a short stay. Just 9 months on a student visa to explore, meet the wildlife, and improve her English. But by the end of that journey, she wasn’t ready to leave, and that’s where her early childhood adventure began.

“I looked up careers that would let me stay longer in this amazing country,” she says. “That’s when I found Early Childhood Education.”

Finding Her Place at Story House

While completing her Diploma, Helena’s teacher recommended Story House Windsor for her placement. And from day one, something clicked.

“It really was amazing. I got hired not long after I started, and I stayed at Windsor for 3 years. First as an educator in the toddler room, then as Lead in the Nursery.”

Taking the Leap to Warrnambool

In early 2023, Helena discovered our sponsorship opportunities at Warrnambool. “I already knew Story House and loved it, but moving interstate after nearly 7 years in Brisbane was a big deal,” she admits. The transition wasn’t easy, but it was worth it.

"Moving to Warrnambool allowed me to continue my journey in Australia, and explore a whole new lifestyle. The country vibe here is so relaxed, it’s something I always wanted to try.”

For Helena, the support from the people behind the scenes played a huge role in making her interstate transition easier. She remembers how thoughtful and warm the HR team was, especially Gauri, who stood out for her kindness and patience. The reassurance and flexibility she was given during her relocation made all the difference during what could have been a stressful time.

Life-Changing Impact

Sponsorship has been a pivotal chapter in Helena’s story. It gave her the opportunity to settle into a new part of Australia and try out the relaxed country lifestyle she’d always wanted. Just as importantly, it brought a sense of stability and long-term possibility, offering a secure role and helping her take meaningful steps toward permanent residency. For Helena, the experience has been nothing short of transformative.

Helena knows that making a move like this can feel overwhelming, especially if it involves a big life change. But she would encourage others not to let that hold them back. Through her journey, she discovered the power of new connections, the joy of joining a close-knit community, and the beauty of Warrnambool, a town she now calls home.

Most of all, she’s found a team that feels like a truly special team!