Kevin Mackey moved to Hervey Bay from Brisbane with his family early this year, hoping for a better life.

This 16-year old, however, faced the same question most of us do when we move to a new place – what now?

His quest to find answers brought him to the Reconnect Youth Centre, HBNC’s youth services hub, where he enrolled in the 10-week Our Voice program.

Our Voice is a job readiness program, providing opportunities, training and employment pathways for youth.

Not knowing what exactly he was getting into, Kevin nevertheless decided to go ahead and give it a go. He soon realized it would be a life-changing experience.

During his time in the Our Voice program, Kevin built self-confidence while honing his presentation and interpersonal communications skills. He also made good friends in the process and found mentors he can count on.

He may be young but Kevin has already got clear ambitions. He wants to start his own carpentry business in Hervey Bay and hopes to use the communications skills he has developed while serving his customers.

He says he learnt how to engage with people of all backgrounds and hopes to see his little sister join a similar program at the Reconnect Youth Centre.

We, at HBNC, are proud to have played a role in his journey and wish him all the best for the future.