I joined Starlight in 2009 as a part-time Outreach Officer for Livewire, which supports teenagers living with a serious illness or disability. It was a hospital-based role where I signed adolescents up to our brand-new online community, and I also liaised with other organisations to encourage their members to join.
I fell in love with the role and Starlight immediately.
I then moved into the Wishgranting team, which had been inundated with referrals, and became a full-time Family Relationship Co-Ordinator (FRC). This was a dream come true for me. I loved connecting with families during some of the hardest moments in their lives, and giving them something exciting to look forward to.
I was working closely with hospital social workers and I realised Social Work might be the path that I would like to go down. After much encouragement from my Manager, I went back to university to complete my Masters of Social Work.
It was tricky juggling working and studying but definitely worth it. I made some great connections through the course and got to do some interesting work placements. These definitely helped me in my various Starlight roles.
While on these work placements, I became a Chat Host for our online Livewire community so I could stay connected to Starlight. Right as I graduated, the Program Manager role in the Northern Territory was available. I’d always been interested in that job as I’m really passionate about Indigenous health.
Two months later I was on the plane, relocating to Darwin.
This role has been life-changing for me. I’ve learnt so much about our beautiful country, met incredible people, been challenged in countless different areas and grown immensely. I’ve had the opportunity to visit places all over the Northern Territory that many people don’t even know about.
It’s also amazing to know that even in the most minute way, work that I’m doing is contributing towards improving the health outcomes of some of the most vulnerable people in the country.
For me, the best things about working at Starlight are the opportunities to develop and the friendships made along the way. I don’t think anywhere else offers this much flexibility, and we have opportunities to dip our toes into new experiences in such supported ways.
I always knew I wanted to do work that meant something, and knowing that each day I get to come to work and connect with Starlight’s greater purpose definitely keeps me motivated.
"You won't find a better job to support your creative career."
"Joining the Livewire team's honestly been the best job I've ever had."
This role is unlike anything else
"When I heard there was a job where you get to act like a superhero and play it seemed too good to be true."
I just love my job. I believe it is truly where I am meant to be!
Stacey, Ground Control & Supporter Engagement Team Manager
