Hope at BASP

In 2012-2013, many minors, particularly from Afghanistan and Sri Lanka, arrived in Australia. Some were as young as 13 or 14. They came by boat and were initially detained upon arrival. After some time, various groups were paid to care for them until they turned 18. Once they reached adulthood, they were left to navigate life on their own. BASP supported a few of these young individuals as they transitioned to independence. Nearly a decade later, we still maintain contact with some of them, and many are still without permanent visas.

While most young Australians in their twenties are establishing careers, building friendships, and exploring relationships, some of the asylum seekers from years ago have managed to secure permanent visas and create stable lives. However, others still feel vulnerable and betrayed by the system.

One of these individuals is Siva, and we would like to share parts of his story.

"My cousin, whom I consider my brother, and I arrived on the same boat. I was fifteen and a half, and he was eighteen, two and a half years older than me. I didn’t know he was coming until I saw him on the boat. My father organised our journey because I was so young and unwell. My illness stemmed from a traumatic incident in Sri Lanka that still haunts me. Thirteen years later, I am receiving help from Cabrini Health Hub.

I came to Melbourne directly from Darwin Detention Centre. Wesley Mission managed the group home where I lived with other young asylum seekers under 18. They took care of us.

Once I turned 18, I was on my own. I went to Dandenong Plaza and met a Tamil family I knew from one of the boys who had lived with them. I stayed with them for a short time and then moved from family to family for several years.

Eventually, I started to lose my grip on reality. A friend brought me to Cabrini, where I received invaluable counseling. They helped me compartmentalize my troubles, allowing me to find peace. I started listening to music, reading books, and going to the gym. Before Cabrini, I didn’t know who to trust. It’s all about community; living with good people fosters a good life.

Thanks to Cabrini, Libby from BASP helped me find a place to live. Since then, I’ve met so many wonderful people. They feel like angels sent from above. If you want to see God, look at the good souls around you. My prayers have been answered; I truly believe in the power of prayer and hope.

I used to ask, "Why me?" I lost everything—my mother, my education. I felt alone without the love of my family. I was just a kid wanting to lead a normal life.

Now, I have a family. I know I am in safe hands, with strong support behind me. I feel like I have my wings back."

Siva is a pseudonym used to protect his privacy.

Some other examples of hope from BASP