A fresh start for Letty
In October 2024, Letty quietly stepped into the STEPS Skills for Education and Employment (SEE) Program in Cairns. Very shy and nervous, she had rescheduled her intake appointment multiple times. When she finally arrived, STEPS Participant Support Officer Chloe Hunter gently led Letty through the campus, offering comfort and support every step of the way.
What brought Letty here
Letty joined the SEE Program to improve her reading and writing skills, but her initial weeks were challenging. She avoided eye contact, stayed on the sidelines during activities, and found it difficult to engage with others. But something special began to happen in the training room – through a shared love of food and gardening, the women in Letty’s class began to form bonds of friendship and support. Slowly but surely, Letty started to open up.
Learning with Letty
Over the past six months, Letty has experienced incredible personal growth. She’s made major improvements in her literacy skills and found her voice. Today, Letty:
- Actively participates in class discussions and group work
- Reads and writes with greater confidence
- Meaningfully connects with her peers in a warm, supportive environment
- Leads the class in Zumba sessions that bring joy and energy to the group
Yes – Zumba! Letty surprised everyone when she revealed that she had once led high-energy Zumba lessons on the Gold Coast. After her SEE class began streaming chair yoga and tai chi videos to support wellbeing, Letty suggested bringing back Zumba.
For the last two months, once a week, she leads her classmates in what they lovingly call “Vintage Zumba,” sparking laughter, movement, and fun for both participants and trainers.
Success for Letty
Letty’s confidence has soared, and her energy is infectious. Her Trainer, Justyna Kaszynska, says she’s never seen such a transformation.
“She has truly found her tribe,” Justyna said.
“Letty has broken out of her shell, connected with like-minded people, and found a beautiful community.”
The power of Letty’s journey
Letty’s story shows how education is about more than just skills; it’s about belonging, self-confidence, and joy. Through the SEE Program and the Certificate I in Access to Vocational Pathways course, Letty has not only improved her literacy skills but also found renewed purpose and a supportive community to grow with.
Where to next for Letty
Letty said she is proud of herself and her progress, owing her confidence boost to the STEPS SEE community in Cairns.
“It’s funny to think about how nervous I was at the beginning,” Letty said.
“Now, I always look forward to coming to class and seeing everyone! The best part is feeling like I belong. I’ve made friends for life here.”
As she continues her studies, Letty brings light and laughter to her classroom. With each Zumba session and written word, she’s building a brighter future for herself and the people around her.
Unlock new opportunities with the STEPS SEE Program
If you are interested in joining the SEE Program at one of our STEPS sites, please visit the Skills for Education and Employment webpage or call our friendly team at 1300 131 965 for more information.
