Opening the Door to Untold Stories and New Horizons

  A Care Leaver’s Journey to Belonging in a Digital World Hey, you! Yes, you, the one scrolling through—let me grab your attention for a moment. I’ve got a story to share, one that’s close to my heart and speaks to the power of embracing a positive digital culture. Today, I’m talking about how digital spaces became my bridge to belonging, and how, as a care leaver, I navigated the highs and lows of integrating into society with the help of technology. Ready to dive in? "Digital spaces are like doors—you just need the key to open them. But what if you don’t have the key?" When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, like many others, I found myself relying on digital tools to stay connected. Whether it was online classes, workshops, or watching YouTube tutorials to complete assignments in my aftercare facility, the digital world was for me the only source that kept me connected with the loved ones, stay updated etc. It felt empowering! Social workers were there to guide me, and I could alw

Nurturing Strength and Purpose as a  care experienced person Being a care leaver myself, w orking with care leavers  locally and globally,  has been one of the most meaningful experiences of my life. The programs I have been engaged with over the last one year as a young social work professional, are designed for empowering and enabling independent living by these young people, one s  like me who have aged out of the child care system.  They offer opportunities and hope, facilitating  youth to truly unlock their potential and build their future s .   My journey so far as a social work professional working with my o wn peers has shown me both the depth of their gratitude and the different ways they experience and express it.   Support programs for care leavers offer much more than mere immediate help. They provide tools for growth—through workshops, training, and mentorship—that build skills, confidence, and lasting connections. I've seen incredible changes  take place : young peopl

 Nurturing Inclusivity and Support for the most vulnerable young persons with experience  of being in care homes Entering the workplace for the first time is both exciting and challenging for every person but more so for someone like me, a care leaver. I still remember my first job and my first day as a Legal Analyst in a well-known company. It just seemed like a great day when I entered the office that morning. I felt it would be a great learning opportunity and everyone would welcome me with open hands and hearts full of love. Yes, that was so true. The environment was friendly, and my colleagues were welcoming. However, I quickly realized that there was a significant gap in understanding the unique challenges I faced due to my background. During my six-months’ probation period, I encountered several situations that put me in the corner, isolated, making me feel I was not wanted, and often highlighting my low social relationship skills. At times, I felt like my childhood trauma was c