MEET STEPH
At 32, Steph has faced more challenges than most. Born with HIV, she grew up in the shadow of stigma and self-doubt. Yet, from the age of 13, she dedicated herself to helping others by joining Positive Women, a support group for women living with HIV. Through this work, Steph has accomplished extraordinary feats—addressing the United Nations, meeting the Princess of Norway, Bill Clinton, and even presenting alongside Annie Lennox. Despite these accomplishments, Steph struggled to see her own value.
When Steph met David, she shared her hesitation about including her HIV status on her resume, even though her volunteer work spanned over a decade. Despite holding a Diploma of Counselling and having a wealth of experience, Steph lacked confidence in presenting her achievements. David worked closely with her to revamp her resume, ensuring it reflected all the remarkable work she had done.
A lighthearted wager was made: if Steph used her updated resume to secure her dream job as a Peer Support Worker, she would owe David $10. With renewed confidence, Steph took on the challenge and began her job search.
Today, Steph is thriving as the Peer Support Coordinator at First Step, a not-for-profit hub that offers addiction, mental health, and legal services to over 1,800 people annually. Her dedication to helping others, shaped by her own life experiences, has finally translated into a paid role where she continues to make a difference. Additionally, Steph has secured permanent housing in Prahran and is enjoying life with her new partner, Holly.
When Steph handed David a ten-dollar note as a symbol of their wager, it represented more than a playful bet. It symbolised the courage and resilience Steph showed in overcoming barriers such as homelessness, mental health struggles, and a history of domestic violence. For David, that ten-dollar note now sits framed in his home, a daily reminder of Steph’s incredible journey.
Steph’s story is one of optimism and hope. She has not only transformed her own life but continues to inspire and advocate for others, proving that no matter the obstacles, to be empowered is within reach.
Steph, Disability Employment participant, Prahran
