Tobi’s New Chapter

After things with his mum grew too difficult, he crashed with a friend, only to find their family circumstances didn’t allow him to stay long. Living with his dad—whom he hadn’t seen since age 11—also fell apart. Suddenly, Tobi was homeless.
Already attending Youth Futures Community School and working on his Certificate II in General Education, Tobi’s youth worker stepped in and helped him secure a safe place at TINOCA, Youth Futures’ crisis accommodation. Walking through the doors, he was anxious about how his life had come to this point. But the moment staff showed him his room, a wave of calm washed over him—he knew he’d be okay.
The TINOCA team proved to be incredible, kind, and patient, always present when needed. They taught Tobi practical skills in budgeting, cooking, and cleaning, and helped him navigate Centrelink by sorting out his birth certificate and bank account. They also connected him with improved mental health support. Despite his housing crisis, Tobi continued attending school, completed his Cert II, and is now studying for his Cert III with dreams of becoming a youth worker.