From Goals to Growth: Kaitlyn Phillips’ Journey with Souths Cares

When Kaitlyn Phillips joined the Deadly Youth Program in early 2025, she stepped into a space created to nurture leadership, cultural identity and personal growth among young Indigenous people. At the time, Kaitlyn was in Year 10 and already had a clear sense of what she wanted to achieve. Some of her goals were ambitious, others deeply personal, but each one reflected her determination to build a strong future for herself. Over the course of the year, with the guidance, encouragement and opportunities provided through Souths Cares, Kaitlyn not only met those goals but surpassed them, emerging as a confident young woman with a growing belief in her own potential.

A major turning point in Kaitlyn’s journey came in September 2025 when she met her mentor, Mel, during the Our Ways Our Stories TAFE course. This 12‑week program, delivered through a Souths Cares initiative, explored Indigenous ways of knowing, being and doing. It encouraged young people to reflect on their identity, culture and aspirations while developing practical skills and confidence. Kaitlyn embraced the course with enthusiasm, participating in discussions, activities and storytelling with maturity beyond her years. Her commitment and engagement were recognised with a certificate of achievement—an important milestone that helped strengthen herself‑ confidence and sense of direction.

Soon after completing the course, Kaitlyn attended the September Girls Leadership Camp in Ulladulla. The camp brought together First Nations girls from the Liverpool Hub and Nanga Mai Marri, creating a supportive environment where young women could connect, learn and celebrate their strengths. For Kaitlyn, the camp was far more than a few days away from home. It was an opportunity to build friendships, deepen her cultural identity and take part in activities that encouraged teamwork, leadership and self‑belief. The experience also served as a well‑earned reward for her ongoing commitment to the program.

Returning from the camp, Kaitlyn learned about the Souths Cares School‑Based Traineeship beginning in 2026. The opportunity immediately captured her interest. Determined to give herself the best chance, she prepared a résumé and cover letter before submitting her expression of interest. Throughout November, she worked closely with her mentor to practise interview questions, refine her communication skills and build her confidence. She also visited Dress for Success to ensure she had professional attire for her upcoming interview.

By December, Kaitlyn was understandably nervous, but she approached her interview with courage and walked out feeling proud of her effort. Not long after, she received the news she had hoped for—she had secured the Souths Cares School‑Based Traineeship. Her family, Alexandria Park High School and the Souths Cares team were all incredibly proud. Within a week, she began work experience with the South Sydney Rabbitohs, gaining firsthand insight into a professional workplace.

The momentum continued into 2026. In January, Kaitlyn achieved another personal milestone by obtaining her learner’s licence. In February, she officially commenced her traineeship, balancing one day a week at Souths Cares with her business studies at TAFE. She remains committed to completing both her HSC and her traineeship.

Looking ahead, Kaitlyn hopes to pursue a career in community services and eventually attend university. Her journey so far reflects resilience, cultural pride and a determination to create a meaningful future—showing what young people can achieve when they are supported, encouraged and given room to grow.