Tell us about yourself
I was born and raised in Wellington, New Zealand. At the age of six, I relocated to Gisborne and have lived in many other places. I come from a very big combined family and our household is very busy and active. My family are a very big part of who I am and I know they’re always going to be there for me. If it wasn’t for my Dad, I don’t think I’d be where I am today.
What did you hope to get from participating in the storytelling workshop?
To be honest, I don’t know. I just went to have fun. Fun is one thing I’ve missed a lot of.
Why did you choose this particular story to tell?
I don’t know. It’s pretty much based on my Mum and Dad – I love them both and they know me better than anyone. I never talk much about my Mum because it’s private, but I’ll tell anyone about my Dad. I used to be scared but when my Dad walked into my life, I believed that nothing could touch me. The things about the workshop that were good for me were my photos and my writing and putting it all together. I haven’t put pen to paper in about three years but when an opportunity like this came up, it was easy. When the ideas came up, it just stuck. I know I can talk heaps, but the easiest way to express myself is through writing. I hate the sound of my own voice – nobody likes it but I double hate it – so I chose to do it with words instead.
How have you changed as a result of telling and making your story?
I focussed on myself for once. It’s hard for me to get out and about. I’ve always had people do things for or with me. I’ve never done things on my own. But I know I’ll eventually get there. At the workshop people were talking to me, not at me. I was doing things for myself, not other people doing things for me.
How do you think this experience will impact your journey?
All I can say is, it won’t be easy. But with the right support, I’ll make it.
