For 17 years, fines and obstacles prevented Kerin from obtaining his licence. However, everything changed with the backing of the Wanderer Program and his mentor, Belinda, making his dream of getting his licence finally come true.
Kerin joined in the Wanderer Program for the Great Southern, which is delivered by the Southern Aboriginal Corporation in collaboration with the McGovern Foundation and funded by the Driving Access and Equity Program in June, with the hope of finally securing his licence.
With six lessons and guidance at every turn, Kerin not only passed his practical driving assessment but also accomplished something profoundly personal.
His first journey was to visit his mother’s resting place with flowers, where he joyfully shared the wonderful news: “Mum, I drove here just for you.”
“I have been trying to get my licence for 17 years. I haven’t done the right thing with getting in trouble and fines, but to have Belinda help me with that and do lessons and pay for my test has been so much help,” he said.
“I felt on top of the world, like I finally achieved something in my life. I just needed someone to believe in me and give me a little bit of support. I actually feel like a weight has been lifted off my shoulders. I am going to look for a job now too.”
This is what the Driving Access and Equity Program is all about, helping people overcome barriers and open doors to independence, opportunity, and hope.
Congratulations, Kerin!
