TESTIMONIALS
Not sure where to start? Read what other Zoe mums have to say about their experiences and be inspired as you begin your own journey.
My name is Prue and I am mother to Savannah who is 6 years old. I joined Zoe Support in 2015 and since then, the positive influences have had a major impact on my life and my daughter’s. Zoe Support has helped build my confidence, empowered me to be a better person not only for myself and my daughter but also for the community I live in. Zoe Support has helped me keep focussed and motivated with furthering my education. I have participated in the Zoe Support programs and Playgroup and my daughter attends the Zoe Support Family Day Care.
In 2020, I was fortunate enough to receive a scholarship with Chances for Children and I began My Diploma of Nursing at TAFE. I was also a Nominee for the Youth Awards in 2020. I have recently applied to do my Bachelor of Nursing at Latrobe University in Mildura next year. Mahatma Gandhi famously said, "You must be the change you want to see in the world," and I see so many more opportunities for my future thanks to the assistance and huge amount of support I’ve had from Zoe Support. I wouldn’t be half the mother and person I am today without them.
Prue
My name is Tijana and I am a mother to two gorgeous girls, Azna and Ruby.
I began my journey with Zoe Support in 2017 when I was pregnant with Azna. When I joined, my reason was aimed more at the social side. I had my mum, sister and partner for support, but the more I went, the more I realised that I did need the support of other young mums. With this, it helped me to not care that society has standards. Being a young mum is hard, but a lot of young mums at Zoe say their children saved them.
I didn’t have my license when I joined, so for four years Zoe supported me with transport to and from all the programs I wanted to be a part of, as well as doctor’s appointments, going to the supermarket and even as far as taking me to my family and friends houses just so I could be around people and not be stuck in my four walls.
In 2019, I become a full time single mum, with no financial or emotional support from their father. This was the time I leant on Zoe Support the most. They helped me get my finances and budgeting back on track, they helped me get my licence, and even helped me find a place that Azna, Ruby and I now call home. Azna and Ruby have both been in Zoe Support family day care for years and this has helped with creating bonds between them and others. Their social skills are amazing and Azna has transitioned into kindergarten with absolutely no problems.
I almost didn’t join Zoe Support because I felt it wasn’t cool, or I would be looked at funny, or silly things like that, but to be honest, without their support, I wouldn’t be who I am today. I would still be in a dark place. I am very blessed to have been a part of such an incredible organisation that has now become much like family.
Tijana
I joined Zoe Support in 2018 shortly after the birth of my first son at 17. I was halfway through my VCE and felt like I was isolated with a new baby. I made an appointment with the case manager at Zoe Support who supported me to get all of Jai’s birth paperwork filled in and explained everything to me. I started attending playgroups and programs at Zoe Support and then decided when Jai was 6 months old I was ready to get back into study and decided to start my Certificate IV in Community Services.
Without Zoe Support and Family Day Care, I wouldn't have been able to study and achieve my goals. Being a Zoe client has allowed me to make lifelong friends and supported me through the challenges that parenthood brings. I finished my Community Services course in 2020 after finding out I was expecting my second child and was supported through my difficult pregnancy. I plan to study my Diploma in Community Services in 2021 after my third child is born but none of this would've been possible without the help of Zoe Support.
Kadiesha
I joined Zoe Support in 2018 when I was 19 and my son was 3 months old. At first I was hesitant to reach out and connect to the program but once I did I gained so much extra support.
I was living in Melbourne and moved to Mildura in 2017. A week later I found out I was pregnant. I hadn’t had the chance to create a supportive friendship group in the area until I joined Zoe Support.
My son started at the Zoe Support Family Day Care program when he turned 1 to prepare me for studying again. Once my son was 18 months old, I gained a scholarship with the help of Zoe Support to then study my Diploma of Nursing. I have now completed this and am now an enrolled nurse. I have also gained employment. Zoe Support has supported me every step of the way and continues to assist me wherever I need it.
My son loves attending the Zoe houses. He has bonded with all the carers and other children attending the program so well. He has learnt how to play amongst children of all ages from newborn to school age and he enjoys every moment of it.
My son and I will be forever thankful for all the support and help we have been given from everyone at Zoe Support.
Jayde
