In October 2020, I embarked on a new chapter of my career journey as the 2IC at Oak on Jellicoe service in Toowoomba, joining the esteemed team at SHEL. From the moment I stepped through the doors, I was greeted with warmth and enthusiasm, not only from the Service Manager and my fellow Story House-ers but also from the CEO themselves, who took the time to personally welcome me aboard.

Nestled within our service were vibrant families, uniquely loving children, and dedicated staff, creating an atmosphere brimming with energy and passion. As the 2IC, I found myself engaged in numerous interactions with both our Support Office team and the Executive Leadership Team, who consistently extended their support and guidance whenever needed.

One of the remarkable aspects of working at SHEL was the emphasis placed on continuous professional development. Opportunities abounded for all staff members to hone their skills and expertise during work hours, ensuring that we could deliver optimal outcomes for the children under our care.

After nearly three enriching years with SHEL, my family and I made the decision to relocate to Brisbane. Initially, I was apprehensive about parting ways with the SHEL community in Toowoomba, as there were no services available in my new location. However, my concerns were swiftly addressed when I reached out to my Service Manager and Business Operations Manager.

Their suggestion to connect with the COO at the Support Office in Brisbane proved to be a pivotal moment. Upon exploring available opportunities, I was thrilled to discover a vacancy for a Family Engagement Officer. With the unwavering support of my BOM, the COO, and the Family Engagement team, I was presented with the opportunity to transition into a new role within the Support Office.

Grateful for the chance to remain within the SHEL community, I embraced my new position as a Family Engagement Specialist with enthusiasm and dedication. It's been an incredible journey of growth and learning, and I am excited to continue making a positive impact within the organisation while furthering my skills and expertise in this new capacity.