Sometimes, the right support at the right time can open a door to a young person’s future.
19-year-old Callum has been accessing headspace Albany services, including working with Connie from the Work and Study program since November 2025.
Callum is passionate about the environment and committed to building a career in ecosystems management. After successfully completing his Certificate II in Ecosystems Management, Callum made the decision to keep moving forward and has now commenced his Certificate III.
His continued commitment to learning is an achievement to be celebrated. But as Callum progressed with his studies, he faced a very practical barrier: he needed a laptop to complete his coursework, research, and assessments, but purchasing one was beyond what he could afford.
He even considered dropping out of the course. Due not only to not having access to a reliable laptop but also the cost of the Certificate III. We were able to support Callum in applying for a fee waiver to help with the cost and were so happy that the application was successful.
For many students, having access to a computer is simply part of everyday study. For Callum, it was a barrier that could have made continuing his education significantly more difficult.
Through the support of our headspace Albany, we were able to advocate for Callum and identify an opportunity for assistance. Thanks to the generosity of Albany Community Foundation, brokerage funding was provided to enable Callum to purchase his own laptop. When Connie told Callum that we were going shopping for a laptop, he was so surprised and grateful. It was a fun shopping experience!
The impact of this support extends far beyond the laptop itself.
It has given Callum the tools, independence, and opportunity to fully participate in his education. He can now complete his assessments, conduct research, communicate with his training provider, and continue developing the skills he needs for his chosen career.
Most importantly, the support has helped Callum keep moving towards a future that he has worked hard to create for himself.
Callum’s story is a powerful reminder that meaningful change does not always require a major intervention. Sometimes, removing one practical barrier can help a young person stay connected to their goals, maintain their momentum and believe in what is possible.
A laptop was the immediate need. The real investment was in Callum’s potential.
We are incredibly proud of Callum’s achievements and his determination to continue learning. We are also deeply grateful to the Albany Community Foundation whose generosity helped make this opportunity possible.
Together, we have helped ensure that a financial barrier did not stand between a motivated young person and his future.
For Connie, being able to support Callum in reaching towards his goals is a reminder of just how important it is to young people to have support that meets them where they are at and focuses on what is important to them. As a bonus, Connie has learnt so much about ecosystem management! Callum’s enthusiasm is infectious.
One young person. One practical solution. One more step towards a brighter future.
