Success Story: How Charlie Found Her Confidence, Direction, and a Future in Community Services
Every journey back into education or employment begins with a single step — and for Charlie, that first step was joining COMPACT’s Return to Work – Women & Girls Program. When she walked through our doors, she wasn’t sure where she belonged or what she wanted her future to look like. What she did know was that something needed to change.
Today, Charlie is a shining example of resilience, growth, and what’s possible when the right support system is in place.
A New Beginning
When Charlie first became involved with the Return to Work program, she was feeling disconnected from education and unsure about her next move. Like many young women facing similar challenges, she struggled with self-confidence and didn’t feel ready to take on new opportunities.
Through the program, she was matched with Gaylene, her mentor, who listened, encouraged, and helped her rediscover her strengths. With consistent support and guidance, Charlie began to see possibilities she hadn’t considered before.
Building Confidence, Step by Step
One of the biggest changes Charlie experienced throughout the program was a significant boost in confidence. She started to recognise her own abilities — not just academically, but personally and socially.
Gaylene helped her set achievable goals and break them down into steps that felt manageable. As she ticked off each milestone, her self-belief grew stronger.
What once felt overwhelming became exciting.
What once felt out of reach became completely doable.
Refocusing on Education
With her confidence renewed, Charlie felt empowered to return to her studies. She set her sights on completing her Year 12 certificate — a goal she now approaches with determination and pride. Although she hasn’t been able to enrol just yet due to limited places, she has begun a business certificate through OCTEC to bridge the gap until the 2026 TAFE intake.
For Charlie, returning to education is about so much more than finishing school — it’s about reclaiming her future.
A New Career Path: Community Services
As Charlie continued to explore her interests through COMPACT’s mentoring and support, a clear passion emerged: helping others.
Through conversations, goal-setting sessions, and exposure to different pathways, Charlie discovered a strong interest in the community services sector. She realised she wanted to make a positive impact on people experiencing hardship, just as she had received support when she needed it most.
Now, she is focused on pursuing a career where she can use her empathy, insight, and lived experience to support others in her community.
The Power of Compassionate Support
Charlie’s journey shows the true impact of meaningful guidance and connection. The Return to Work program provided more than resources — it provided a safe, encouraging environment where she could grow at her own pace.
Through the program, she received:
✔ One-on-one mentoring
✔ Help setting goals and understanding her strengths
✔ Support to build confidence and reconnect with education
✔ Pathway guidance into community service roles
✔ A team that believed in her every step of the way
Looking Ahead
Charlie’s story is still unfolding, and her future is brighter than ever.
With the path to her Year 12 certificate underway and a clear career direction in community services, she is well on her way to creating the life she once thought was out of reach.
Her journey is a powerful reminder that with the right support, determination, and encouragement, transformation is always possible.
COMPACT Is Here for Women Like Charlie
COMPACT’s Return to Work – Women & Girls Program gives women the mentoring, skills, and confidence needed to take positive steps toward education, training, and meaningful employment.
If you or someone you know is ready to begin a new chapter — just like Charlie — we’re here to walk alongside you.
Click the link below to register for our Return To Work Women & Girls Program