Welcome Trudy, tell us a little about yourself and your role? 

I was born and raised in Armidale, NSW, in the Northern Tablelands. To pursue my career goal, I moved to Coffs Harbour to follow my dream of being a childcare educator as soon as I finished school. I commenced working in childcare in 2001 and then moved to Sydney when I was 21. I started working in after school care, where I lived and worked for another 11 years.

After having my daughter, I struggled for childcare options as I had to manage my circumstances, so my daughter and I left Sydney in 2018 and moved back to Coffs Harbour for extra family support and connection.

I was referred to the ParentsNext program as a participant the same year. After working with my mentor Jess and telling her I had applied for over 100 jobs and never received a callback, she asked me if I would like to send my resume for a job at Bamara. The following week I had an interview with the team, and the rest is history.

I have been with Bamara for three years as the ParentsNext Support Mentor for Nambucca and Coffs Harbour and the Virtual playgroup facilitator.

What do you find the most satisfying about your role and working for Bamara?

The most satisfying thing about my role at Bamara is seeing our customers succeed who make breakthroughs, positive changes and begin moving forward in their lives. I also love seeing our customers being inspired and believe it’s possible to create a better future for themselves and their children.

What are some of your favourite activities you like to do with your family or friends?

I love to hang out at the beach and spend time with my loved ones. My daughter and I love all things crafty, and we both enjoy finding new things to create. We love paint pouring at the moment.

What skills have you brought with you or gained since joining the team at Bamara?

I have brought some essential skills to Bamara, having worked extensively in the childcare industry, like interacting effectively with parents and working with children. I am also not afraid to have those hard conversations that are sometimes required, and also being able to relate with parents, being a single parent myself. Having been a ParentsNext participant as well is also a bonus.

I have also gained a lot more IT skills; my skills are fundamental but enough to do my job.

If you could go anywhere in the world, where would you go and why?

I want to see the Northern Lights, which is right up the top of my bucket list.

Do you have any quotes, or words of inspiration?

My favourite quote is “fake it till you make it” when starting out applying for jobs, you sometimes have to fake the confidence till you gain the confidence! And, “why fit in when you were born to stand out” as everyone is unique and deserves to be treated that way!

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