“I was surprised how much we are involved with the tenants, and I love this, it’s a major drawcard for me.” Sarah loves working with people from all different backgrounds, situations, and complexities and that HCWA helps and supports everyone without discriminating. “I love working in this organisation, the people, our message and what we deliver and provide which is forever homes to people that are struggling. It is really rewarding.” Her goal is to learn as much as she can in her current role to give her the confidence to move into a tenancy officer position if the opportunity arises in the future. In her time outside of work, Sarah is an amazing artist. The interest in painting came from the need to connect with her culture. “My mum is Aboriginal and part of the Stolen Generation, I wanted to learn more about my culture, find the connection I had lost. I started painting and realised I was good at it.” Sarah paints a couple of hours each week and says, “it relaxes me, fills my soul and connects me to land and dreamtime.” Her paintings are inspired by stories that come from the land that are passed down. For NAIDOC Week, Sarah ran a painting workshop with HCWA staff. She says, “it will be great to share stories with everyone and to connect with Aboriginal culture.” To thank her mentor for all her support, Sarah did a painting. “The artwork represents us meeting, my journey and how much I have grown because of her encouragement and support. She helped me to take the opportunity and if it wasn’t for her support, I wouldn’t have had the courage.”
Painting by artist and HCWA Tenancy Assistant, Sarah.
Housing Choices Australia - Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan 2024 - 2026
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