NABIL

“I can trust my church family. They don’t go yapping, they don’t go and tell people, “Oh, he did this today. He’s a naughty boy.” It’s just the environment you know? You’re just in a good space. I feel like I don’t need to be different. I can just be myself.

I enjoy going to church, hanging with friends, working. It makes you take your mind off a lot of other things, so you’re not worrying about – what am I going to do tomorrow, what am I going to do the next day. You’re just focusing on one thing. You’re just doing that the whole day.

I have a best friend, he’s had my back since Year 10. He’s a really cool dude. Ever since high school he’s been the one standing up for me and I’ve been there for him. I’ve just treated him with respect so that’s why our friendship has lasted.”

If you want to go to church or practice your religion – Ask for help to find the right place for you, whether that’s a church, a mosque, a temple, or just a quiet, private place. Your caregiver or social worker will be able to help, or call Oranga Tamariki on 0508 FAMILY (326 459)

If you want to get a job – Check out the Youth Service. They support 16 to 19 year olds to find pathways to jobs and an independent future. So if you’re thinking about learning more, getting into training or heading to work, they can help you figure out your next step.

Something else? You can Get Support or find out How To.