Education has always been my saving grace. Focusing on it through the years has enabled my mind to stay healthy and pushed me to be proactive. The creative and strategic nature of marketing was what first appealed to me. I've worked in digital marketing in the past and can't wait to get back up to speed with the latest strategies within the industry. The growth of the digital landscape means it's such an exciting time for marketing!
I became homeless after being taken out of my family environment. My family used to weaponise culture as a way to manipulate and control me emotionally, professionally and financially. If I ever questioned what was happening, or argued against decisions I felt were wrong for me I'd be met with threats to my safety. I somewhat normalised my experience because I'd always been around it. The truth, however, was that everything was impacting my wellbeing and further isolating me from the culture I was supposed to ascribe to. Had the police not intervened who knows what would've happened. They were incredible in taking me out of such a problematic environment and replacing it with a safe one.
Homelessness is a really isolating experience, especially when you've been made to feel like you're to blame after leaving a bad situation. I felt that everyone was judging me and felt even more vulnerable as a women. It's a real mental battle because I had feelings of abandonment and shame at my situation, despite having tried so hard to be independent. Without a support system, any and every rejection or piece of bad news feels so much worse. You're painfully aware of how a single opportunity can bring you out of your current situation.
Working will give me the financial stability and security I long for while giving me a sense of purpose. In a few years I want to be living in a place that feels like home and working as a valued member of an innovative team. I'm also looking forward to developing friendships with likeminded people.