Celebration Stories!

From children’s home to independent living

Stephanie joined our Residential Care Programme back in 2016 when she was 15 years old. She was rescued during a coordinated police and social welfare raid at a residence where trafficking was suspected to be taking place. Thankfully, Stephanie had been rescued before she unknowingly became a victim.

Stephanie had found herself in a place of extreme vulnerability due to a difficult home life, unstable housing and fractures in the family.  

She moved into our girls’ home with her younger siblings. She had regular contact with her parents and relatives and stayed connected to her local community.  

Stephanie excelled at education. After high school, she earned qualifications in vocational courses such as bread and pastry at Bloom Cafés in 2018 and Cosmetology and Body Spa with Rose Institute during 2019-2021.

A year ago, Stephanie moved into our Independent Living Program. She is thriving living by herself. She pays her rent on her own and is able to help her family as well. She receives emotional support and help with practical life skills from her MiA support worker.

Currently, she is working in a laundrette and supervises the daily operations. On her days off, she runs her own business offering beauty treatments and massages. Stephanie has grown into a mature young woman, with a very positive outlook on her future.