3. LIFE IN BALANCE

I am successful and in control of my life. I can make choices. I have a job and a stable family and I understand the importance of taking responsibility . I can overcome challenges one step at a time. I know my rights.

3.1 What works

Having a family member who was active in the community and who gave me a sense of pride in my history. I had a stable family and was encouraged to attend school . My auntie suggested I study further , even though I struggled sometimes at school. She said ‘give it a go- you have nothing to lose’. Even tho this was not easy I learned some more skills and then I worked on the roads , I travelled and met up with a community organisation that gave me a chance and a full time job. I learned skills on the job. Slowly I worked my way towards a job that had a really good salary and now I have a home, security and I am in a position to give back to the community. Io am happy with my life. I do sport and gardening and I try to keep a work – family balance. Sometimes I do not get this right. I wake up at night and think that I must cut back on some things so I do not burn myself out. I think about my life and make the changes that are necessary.