Mentor Helps Young Drivers Find Their Independence

Driven by a quiet passion for supporting teens, volunteer mentor Miriam Houweling has spent the past 18 months helping young learner drivers edge closer to independence through PCYC’s Braking the Cycle program. The initiative pairs volunteers with young people who lack access to a car or supervising adult, giving them a vital pathway to reach their 100 practice hours and unlock new opportunities.

Miriam said she has always enjoyed volunteering, and was seeking new opportunities when she moved from Ipswich to Mackay. She joined the Older Women’s Network , and learned about Braking The Cycle at PCYC Mackay.

She knew this was a role where she could make a difference and feel connected to the young people she was helping.

“I love spending time with teenagers, they all have their funny quirks. If I show them respect, then they show me respect,” Miriam said.

“They all deserve a chance in life,” she said.

Miriam recommends volunteering to anyone who has time to give, and she encourages Mackay locals to come in to PCYC and find out more. PCYC provides full training and support to help mentors guide participants in becoming safe and confident drivers.

PCYC Queensland CEO Phil Schultz said Braking the Cycle provides young people with the freedom and independence to help them connect with their community.

“We have more than 700 BTC volunteers across the state who provide their time, skills and experience to help young people who may not be able to access or afford driving lessons the chance to gain their driving skills – and become safe drivers for the future,” Phil said.

“Having a licence doesn’t just give them the key to drive, it gives them the key to finding and maintaining employment, pursue study opportunities or the ability to support their families and the wider community.”

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Braking The Cycle Graduate Sian Dann with Miriam Houweling. Photo supplied

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