Moving in with extended family for part of her childhood, Sheyteika was almost a teenager when she reconnected with her parents and, to this day, is still learning about her family history and culture.
Sheyteika first entered foster care when she was two years old and then re-entered at the age of 12. During this time, she experienced periods of uncertainty and instability, attending 14 schools throughout her time in care. The constant change in homes, communities, schools and friends was difficult, and as a young teenager she managed by sometimes acting out, and other times by acting more mature than her age. With a passion for soccer and a craving for consistency, Sheyteika remained at the same soccer club throughout her time in care, at one point travelling by two buses and a train just to get there. Today, she proudly plays in the top women’s team at Capalaba QLD, achieving what had always been her dream.
With a limited number of foster carers able to take on the long-term care of a teenager, Sheyteika didn’t receive the stability that would have made a significant difference to her childhood. She would reach out to people herself, including soccer coaches and others in her life, to see if they would become foster carers and look after her.
“I am glad that I am in a position to share my lived experience and hopefully soon be able to make a difference within the foster care system.”
When Sheyteika turned 16, her foster carers at the time moved overseas, which meant that she needed to move home again. With support from MacKillop, Sheyteika moved into a Therapeutic Support Independent Living home, where she learnt to live on her own.
While furnishing and moving into a new home, and learning independent living skills, Sheyteika also completed her senior grades at school, followed by a Certificate IV in Crime and Justice Studies.
She would get herself to and from school every day and worked hard to achieve good grades. She attended the gym before school most days and participated in soccer practice after school. During her senior years at school, she worked two casual jobs, saved money, and purchased her first car at only 16 years of age.
Her tenacity and commitment were originally driven by a clear goal to become a Police Officer, where she could be a strong and positive role model within her community. Now, with a shift in focus, Sheyteika wants to work within the foster care system, use her voice in public speaking to raise awareness, and contribute to organisations dedicated to supporting young people in care.