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When living with a mental health condition, there are times when it can seem like the future is bleak.  Getting through each day is a challenge and dreams of a fulfilled future can seem far off.  However, for some people, like Momentum Collective client Sinaed, just one small step in a new direction with the support of people who genuinely believe in her has offered a glimmer of hope for a brighter future, paving the way to a career she never thought achievable.

For many years, Sinaed lived with an undiagnosed mental health condition. It was a challenging time that eventually led to losing her home and government assistance. During this period, she was admitted to the Mental Health Unit at Lismore Base Hospital, where she was diagnosed with schizophrenia. Soon after, she was transferred to Momentum’s Community Recovery Mental Health House in Lismore, where she received specialised rehabilitation care for her newly diagnosed mental health condition and support to assist her in transitioning back into the community.

Here, her main goal was to stay well and keep herself busy. Then, just when the timing was right and community transition was an option for her, a spot opened up in one of Momentum Collective’s permanent housing properties and she made the move. Gaining access to this home marked a turning point for Sinaed; with the assistance of her NDIS funding for psychosocial disability, she found herself surrounded by a network of Support Workers dedicated to rebuilding her life.

Moving into her unit four years ago, she began making steady progress toward mental wellness. Reflecting on her journey, she shared, “I’ve worked hard over the last five years to build stability and balance while managing schizophrenia.”

The Momentum Collective housing team recognised her resilience and dedication. Tenancy Officer Heather Marsh and General Manager for Housing Colin Jones saw Sinaed’s potential and dedication as a tenant. They thought she’d be an excellent fit for an exciting opportunity—a cadetship through the Community Housing Industry Association (CHIA). This program offers 12 months of paid employment and hands-on experience in community housing. With her reputation for hard work, the Momentum Collective team was excited to offer her this opportunity.

While initially hesitant, some encouraging words from her church community prompted her to commit to the program. “My church asked, ‘What’s the harm in just trying?’ That’s all it took to make my decision.”

Sinaed has been a cadet with Momentum Collective for nearly a year, taking on various tasks, from shadowing tenancy officers to performing administrative duties. Each day brings new learning opportunities, equipping her with skills that will serve her well in any role.

“One day, I might observe a Tenancy Officer, and the next, handle admin tasks. It’s interesting to see how everything works behind the scenes,” she said.

Her cadetship will culminate in January 2025, when she receives her Certificate IV in Housing from CHIA. With only a few months left, she already has a clear vision of her next steps, hoping to continue in housing as a Tenancy Officer or even explore Aboriginal Services.

“Some of my coworkers have suggested I look into peer work, which would let me use my own experiences to help others – that sounds like a great path, too,” she added.

The support and encouragement Sinaed has received from her managers and mentors at Momentum Collective has been invaluable

She speaks highly of the housing team that has stood by her, saying, “The staff at Momentum have given me a stable home and a career opportunity like this cadetship. I’m just so stoked!”

Nearing the end of her cadetship, she’s working on building a solid portfolio and resume to ensure her future shines brightly. Momentum Collective hopes her journey will inspire others to take similar steps, with plans to offer another cadetship in 2025.

“We’re excited to find a new cadet for next year and hope Sinaed’s story encourages others to step forward,” said Heather.

The future can truly get brighter with support and a chance to grow.

For more information on our housing services visit our Community Housing webpage or call our friendly team on 1300 900 091.