After twelve years of being a dedicated mum of six, 29-year-old Sara-Leigh was ready to jump into the driver’s seat and chart a new path towards a fulfilling career in the community services sector.   

Sara-Leigh contacted our team and, in April 2025, joined the Parent Pathways service, which we deliver in Ayr, determined to make a change. 

“I had woken up one day and decided it was time – it was my turn to go on my own journey,” Sara-Leigh said.  

With the help of her dedicated Support Mentor Iona, she established a Goal Plan, focused on two major milestones: earning her driver licence, and completing a Certificate III in Community Services. 

For Sara-Leigh, getting her licence was an important step to not only support her in transporting her kids to and from school and appointments, but also to help her gain confidence, the freedom to pursue her goals, and the drive she needs to succeed.  

It was full steam ahead for Sara-Leigh, attending driving lessons, successfully passing her driving test, and gaining her P plates all within the span of a few weeks. 

To celebrate this significant milestone, she piled her kids into the car and took a victory lap around the neighbourhood before enjoying a special lunch together.  

With one goal down, she focused on completing her long-term goal of studying a Certificate III in Community Services. This was the next big step towards working a rewarding career in community services and making a difference in the lives of others.  

Inspired by the kindness and positive impact of support workers she has interacted with in the past, Sara-Leigh was determined to give back to her community and support the people who need it most.  

With only a few units of work-placement left, Sara-Leigh is itching to get out there and start the career she’s been fighting hard to attain.  

Iona has observed Sara-Leigh’s confidence flourishing with each milestone she meets, with no doubt in her mind that she’s going to continue to achieve great things. 

“Sara-Leigh is a wonderful person and has worked very hard to achieve these amazing outcomes for her and her children. She has a wonderful future ahead of her,” Iona said. 

The momentum to which she was able to reach her goals can also be attributed to Iona, who wasted no time in getting Sara-Leigh the support she needed and setting her on the right track. 

“Iona made me feel so comfortable and it was like we’d known each other for ever, we were always chatting and laughing. I always get excited for my appointments with her. She is an amazing woman,” Sara-Leigh said.  

We’re so proud to be a part of Sara-Leigh’s journey, and eager to see where the road takes her next. She is proof that with fierce determination and the right support, you can change your life.  

“I’ve done the hard yards in my life. If I can achieve my goals with six kids, then everyone can. You can conquer your fears. You can get a licence. You can get a career. Nothing can hold you back,” Sara-Leigh said.  

Connect with our Parent Pathways team

Our Parent Pathways service helps you identify your goals – whether they’re family-focused or career-driven – and provides you with or helps you access the resources you need to work towards and ultimately achieve those goals.    

We listen to what matters most to you and your family. Our dedicated team of experienced Support mentors will provide individualised support to help you achieve your goals.    

Learn more

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