Our learning support and mentoring programs in 90 Australian communities directly help children in need achieve their goals through education.
View all programs Emma achieved much more than she ever dreamt possible
12 January 2022
When a student gets help with their education thanks to a supporter like you, doors open that didn’t even exist before. It can set in motion a lifetime of better opportunities. In her own words, Emma, explains:
“Mum was amazing trying to put education first for me and all my other siblings. But our family struggled to get by. Until the age of five, I couldn’t communicate or speak properly. I had to go to a special school. In Year 2, I went to a new primary school. I was bullied because I couldn’t afford the uniform. My confidence was low.
“Mum was amazing trying to put education first for me and all my other siblings. But our family struggled to get by. Until the age of five, I couldn’t communicate or speak properly. I had to go to a special school. In Year 2, I went to a new primary school. I was bullied because I couldn’t afford the uniform. My confidence was low.
When The Smith Family came along, it made a massive difference.
Because of Smith Family supporters, I could do learning programs like student2student. Reading with my buddy each week helped me work on my communication skills. My vocabulary grew – and so did my confidence.
Then in high school I got to do the iTrack mentoring program. This was amazing.
Because of Smith Family supporters, I could do learning programs like student2student. Reading with my buddy each week helped me work on my communication skills. My vocabulary grew – and so did my confidence.
Then in high school I got to do the iTrack mentoring program. This was amazing.
My mentor connected with me in so many ways, not just my education. We had similar backgrounds and taste in music. We also both had a passion for singing. Every time we chatted, it was a joy. It made my day.
I want other students like me to know it’s ok to ask for help if you’re struggling. Especially with education. You can make a better future.
The Smith Family and supporters like you changed my life forever. I think if it wasn’t for this support, I wouldn’t have passed Year 12. I wouldn’t have my education today.”
I want other students like me to know it’s ok to ask for help if you’re struggling. Especially with education. You can make a better future.
The Smith Family and supporters like you changed my life forever. I think if it wasn’t for this support, I wouldn’t have passed Year 12. I wouldn’t have my education today.”
