Carl, a 15-year-old from China, arrived in New Zealand carrying the weight of an uncertain future and the echoes of an immensely difficult past. The familiar comfort of home was replaced by the unfamiliar landscape of a new country, leaving him feeling adrift and alone.
He yearned for belonging, a deep-seated desire to connect with others, to feel seen and valued. However, internal struggles – PTSD, undiagnosed autism, social anxiety, and a constant battle with depression – cast long shadows over his life. External challenges like limited income, navigating unfamiliar social services, and the weight of cultural differences further compounded his isolation.
Carl found himself on a precarious path, teetering on the edge of despair. Suicidal thoughts crept in, and the world felt like a heavy burden. He yearned for escape, a way to break free from the chains of his past and find a sense of purpose.
Storm, a mentor at Youth Encounter, entered Carl’s life, offering a lifeline of support and understanding. The journey was not easy. It was a tapestry woven with moments of joy and despair, of frustration and breakthrough. Storm met Carl where he was at, offering comfort during emotional breakdowns, advocating for his needs, and constantly reaffirming his inherent worth.
Through group therapy, individual counselling, and ongoing mentorship, Carl began to chip away at the internal barriers that held him back. He slowly started to open up, to trust, and to believe in himself. As he worked his way up Youth Encounter's poutama framework, the transformation was profound. The once withdrawn and isolated young man blossomed into a confident and hopeful individual. He found his voice, discovered his passions, and began to build meaningful connections with others.
"Encounter is family," Carl often said, "I always feel like I belong here."
Today, at 18, Carl is living in transitional housing, pursuing a program designed to prepare young New Zealanders for adulthood and the workforce. It focuses on financial stewardship, fitness, time management, self-worth, and resilience. A brilliant continuation of the work Carl started at Youth Encounter.
We have loved watching Carl arrive at the Puāwai phase of Youth Encounter's poutama framework, where the work he is putting in - is coming into fruition.
