Tobi's Story
Hey, I’m Tobi, 16, and my life’s been a bit of a rollercoaster. At 15, things at home with my mum got so tough I had to leave. I crashed with a friend, but their family drama meant I couldn’t stay. Living with my dad, who I hadn’t seen since I was 11, didn’t work out either. Suddenly, I was homeless.
I was already at Youth Futures Community School, working on my Certificate II in General Education. My youth worker there stepped in and helped me find a safe place at TINOCA, Youth Futures’ crisis accommodation. Walking in, I was a nervous wreck, wondering how my life had come to this. But the moment the staff showed me my room and gave me a tour, a wave of calm washed over me. I knew I’d be okay.
The TINOCA team was incredible, kind, patient, and always there. They taught me how to budget, cook, and clean, and helped me get a Centrelink income by sorting out my birth certificate and bank account. They even connected me with better mental health support. I kept going to school, finished my Cert II, and now I’m studying for my Cert III, dreaming of becoming a youth worker.
TINOCA pulled me out of a dark place and gave me skills and hope. With their help, I’ve got stable housing now and I’m so excited for what’s next. Thank you, TINOCA, you changed my life!