Coffee Shop Goss Banora > Kirra - May 15 | Page 3

>>>REALLOCALS>>> Crystal and Matthew Walkenden Hi Crystal, how long have you been a local? I have lived in Tweed Heads for just over 2 years, not long but I love the area! What is the Crystal Walkerden story? I am a mother to a wonderful son named Mathew. I moved to the Tweed for a change of life. After moving I became a jobseeker client of NORTEC Tweed Heads, to assist me look for work in the area. I have been a client for a year now with NORTEC and in that time I have completed a Certificate III in Business Administration. I have also completed a First Aid Certificate. What is the best thing that has ever happened to you? The best thing that has ever happened to me would be the birth of my son Mathew. He is now 11. What is the worst thing that has ever happened to you? One of the worst and best things would be raising my son on my own. I have been blessed with the support and love from my family to allow me to raise my son and give him every opportunity. How do you unwind from motherhood? Being a single parent there is no unwinding button, my son is my life and I come in second. I do enjoy reading and watching movies. My son and I also like the outdoors. What do you feel the most guilty about? I feel guilty that I can no longer go to all of my son’s school activities as I have been studying and am now looking for employment with the help of NORTEC. Who has been the biggest influence in your life? My mum is the biggest influence in my life. I have also been blessed with the support of the staff at NORTEC Employment and Training. Lynette, my Employment Consultant and Yvonne Fisher, the S.E.E Program trainer (where I volunteer as an admin assistant) - both these people have gone above and beyond trying to help me gain employment and to improve my skills and confidence. What is next on the agenda? To find employment and further my studies and skills towards a good stable job, that will give me and my son opportunities for a better life! I’m currently looking for part time work in an administration role. www.coffeeshopgoss.com.au > BANORA POINT TO KIRRA > MAY 2015 3