"We were all once from a place of brokenness.
"We have found kindred spirits, and we are all beginning to heal."
This was a sentiment shared by Jen, a graduate of Safe Woman, Safe Family's 15 week trauma recovery and empowerment program.
On June 4, the Mandurah domestic violence organisation hosted a graduation event for their most recent cohort of program graduates.
The program, sponsored by Alcoa, was designed to help local women who have been impacted by family and domestic violence, emotionally, mentally, physically and/or financially.
The crowd was treated to songs from local singer/songwriter Brooke Bugeja, including a newly-written original.
Each graduate took to the stage to talk about how the program had impacted their lives, and helped them to begin on their healing journey.
Marnie, who completed the program, said a skill she had learned throughout the program was to "say no, without having a reason".
When program founder Tanya Langford introduced graduate Colleen, her partner cheered loudly.
"Colleen takes care of others," Ms Langford said. "She was so committed to this program, her partner would drive her up from Mundijong and they would stay in a motel so she could attend."
Colleen added that the healing journey goes on and never ends, but the people closest to her have noticed the program's work.
"My family has told me they've seen changes in me," she said.
Another participant, Yvonne, said she was on a mission for her children.
"I'm doing this for them."
Each of the graduates received a pendant with a key, symbolising their dedication to the program, and a handbag from Soroptimist International, filled with goodies.
The women had time to celebrate each other's achievements, reminiscing on hard parts of the program, and breakthroughs they witnessed together.
Ms Langford concluded the ceremony, stating how proud she was of the graduates.
"It is a privilege to do what I do," she said.
Safe Woman, Safe Family are currently taking enrolments for the next program, which will commence on July 23.
For more information, contact 9507 5834 or visit www.safewomansafefamilywa.com
Samantha Ferguson
Samantha Ferguson is a journalist at the Mandurah Mail. She is an entertainment, sport, crime, community and education journalist with a special interest in investigative pieces and human interest stories.
Samantha Ferguson is a journalist at the Mandurah Mail. She is an entertainment, sport, crime, community and education journalist with a special interest in investigative pieces and human interest stories.
