Young mum finds the strength to move forward from a troubled past

Rayma Sweetman is determined to turn her life around and win back custody of her son. After a series of personal setbacks, challenges with addiction and trouble with the law, the 28-year-old has shown incredible resilience and is now on a path toward stability and hope.

Finding stable work in a hospital coffee shop has been a key turning point for Rayma, helping instill self-belief and a sense of purpose.

“It’s made me look at life a little differently. It’s given me a different perspective of myself. I’ve never had this much confidence within myself. I’ve had confidence, but not as much self-confidence and self-worth since I got this job,” Rayma said.

With support from IntoJobs (delivered by MRAEL and part of the IntoWork Group), and her Mobile Employment Consultant Brodie Smith, Rayma has embraced her new structure and routine. Brodie helped with transport options and work clothes and is encouraging Rayma to begin training to become a qualified barista.

“Sometimes it just takes a little support to get the wheels in motion,” Brodie said. “As soon as Rayma found the drive to succeed, she grew in confidence and is now taking control of her future. She recently told me that she has been getting compliments about how she is glowing and that people close to her can’t believe the change they’ve seen.”

Besides loving her new role, Rayma believes her discipline and work ethic will help show that she is capable of being a caring and committed mum.

“Of course, the job is convenient for my life right now, but I actually love it. And it shows that I can maintain a stable position, that I can provide for myself and so I’ll be able to provide for my son,” she said. “It makes me really happy. I’ve just turned into a bit of a bubblier person. I’ve always been bubbly, but not as bubbly as I have been lately.”

Rayma knows how important it is to have professional support around her. She’s grateful to Brodie for offering patience, belief and the practical guidance to help her move forward. Rayma also knows she will confront new challenges and unlock new opportunities as she embarks on the journey ahead.

“No matter how many times I’ve had to go back and start again, I’ve always jumped back up and kept going and got a bit further ahead. I see this job as a stepping stone – a stepping stone to turning my whole life around.”

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