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Monique’s road to recovery

Published: June 30, 2020 12:00am

18-year-old Monique had one of the hardest starts in life, with an absent father and severe bullying at school that led to depression and anxiety.

Thankfully, PCYC was a constant in Monique’s life since she was eight years old. A safe place that she could come to, be herself, enjoy a variety of activities and as a teenager seek friendship and comfort through her difficult school days.

Monique’s road to recovery was long, but she soon became an inspiration to other children at PCYC, racking up many accolades including being a finalist in Focus on Ability Film Festival and being the youngest female co-driver in the WA Rally Championships.

After graduating from the PCYC Institute of Training Leadership Course, Monique was inspired to complete a Certificate II in Security Operations and gain her First Aid Certificate. She then went on to obtain her Security Officer, Crowd Controller and CCTV Control Room licence which led to getting her first job as a Security Officer, working for EON Protection. This week, Monique proudly starts her first assignment for Main Roads within traffic management.

Alan Elliot, Gosnells Centre Manager, said everyone at Gosnells PCYC is so proud to see Monique turn her life around. “We’ve watched Monique grow from a child lacking in confidence to a successful young adult. We couldn’t be happier for her.”

PCYC CEO, David van Ooran, said “Hearing stories like Monique’s reminds us all of why we do what we do. Nothing is more rewarding than hearing of young lives completely turned around. We’re all very proud of Monique.”

And Monique won’t stop there. Her next training goal is to complete her Cert III in security which will enable her to provide bodyguard services and transport cash.

Monique said, “Thank you PCYC for everything you’ve done for me and all the other kids that come to the Centre. I’m really proud of myself. It hasn't been easy and I had some setbacks, but PCYC was always there when I needed help and advice. I couldn’t have done it without you.”