Kamini’s homeownership Journey: A story of self-realisation and empowerment

About Kamini

Kamini, a single mother in her 50s, embarked on her journey with Head Start Homes in 2021. Before that, she endured ongoing housing insecurity, which included having to flee and live in a homeless refuge.

The Challenge

"Since 1998, I've lived in 23 different places. My son moved 16 of those times. He's had to go to 10 different schools and re-establish those relationships every single time. I found it really hard to respect myself in that environment, surrounded by a lot of dysfunction, a lot of chaos," Kamini shared.

Despite these hardships, Kamini was determined to create a better future for herself and her son. When she found out she was going to be a grandmother, it was a turning point.

"When I found out that I was gonna be a grandmother, that was very motivating," said Kamini.

The Support

Kamini started working with Head Start Homes, which gave her a sense of purpose and direction.

"I started working with Head Start Homes. Before that, I had thought I'm just filling in time until I die," Kamini explained.

She worked hard, following a savings plan and striving to find full-time work. "I've had to work really, really hard. You know, I had to do my savings plan every month and have that discipline," said Kamini.

Throughout her journey, Kamini received unwavering support from the Head Start Homes team. "Kamini regularly submitted her monthly Head Start Savings Plan and shared her successes and struggles with us," said Kate Fenton, Head Start Homes Chief of Client Success.

The Achievement

Her dedication paid off, and in April 2024, her property in Parramatta settled, making her a homeowner for the very first time.

"So I've transformed from a person who was just existing to now feel really driven, more confident," Kamini reflected.

The Impact

Kamini's journey is a shining example of what can be achieved with the right support and determination. "Kamini's journey is a powerful reminder of the importance of what we do. We are incredibly proud of her achievements and honoured to have been a part of her journey," said Natasha Kahn, Chief of Communications at Head Start Homes. Kamini's journey with Head Start Homes is a story of hope, resilience, and the transformative power of support.

“Thank you for everything that you've done and, you know, from my family generations to come," Kamini expressed.

"Kamini's story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the impact of our Empowerment Services," said Stephen Woodlands, Founder and Managing Director of Head Start Homes.

Her story serves as an inspiration to all who face similar challenges and a testament to the transformative impact of our Empowerment Products and Services. Thank you, Kamini!

Acknowledgements

It takes a bunch of incredible people and organisations to collaborate and work together to support our clients to home ownership. We extend our heartfelt thanks to all the amazing people and organisations that supported Kamini on her journey. Special thanks to Val, Amy, and Sami from St.George Bank for their invaluable assistance, and to Amanda from High Spec Properties for her amazing property coaching support. Ashley for going the extra mile with conveyancing and providing a significant discount, to Lendlease Future Steps for providing a $100k grant to support Kamini's guarantee. Your collective efforts have made a significant impact on Kamini's life and helped her achieve her dream of home ownership.

The Video

Kamini's journey is beautifully captured in a short film produced by Hugh Fenton at Enlightening Films, which we had the honour of show casing in our International Women’s Day event.

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