A Chance Changed Courtney’s Life. Now She’s Creating Employment Opportunities for the Next Generation.

When 19-year-old Natalina joined PCYC NSW’s Stepping Up employability program, she was lacking the confidence needed to realise her capability.

“I was unemployed, had no motivation at all. PCYC supported me with resume development, interview preparation and one-on-one mentorship. I secured a job in childcare, and I am now ambitious and excited for my future,” said Natalina.

“It was Courtney’s guidance that built me into the person I am today.”

The mentor Natalina credits with transforming her future is PCYC NSW Programs Coordinator Courtney Poole, whose own journey with the youth charity began as a young person seeking support during a challenging period in her life.

Adversity prevented Courtney from completing her Higher School Certificate exams and pursuing her university plans, leaving her feeling isolated and lost. It was through volunteering at PCYC Taree’s Fit for Life program while studying Youth Work at TAFE that she found what she had been missing – purpose, community and a pathway forward.

What began as a volunteer role quickly evolved into a career dedicated to helping other young people. Courtney was first employed as a PCYC Activities Officer, then a Youth Worker, and just 12 months later, she was promoted to the organisation’s State Office, where she now helps to design and deliver the youth programs that once supported her own journey.

“The right support at the right time can completely change a young person’s trajectory. Seeing them gain confidence, discover their strengths and build independent futures is the most rewarding part of my job.” Said Courtney.

One of her proudest achievements has been developing the PCYC Stepping Up employability program, which has supported 232 young people into meaningful, long-term employment since it launched in 2023.

“The employment outcomes are obviously life-changing, but seeing the growth in the young people from the start of the program to the end is incredible. The change in their confidence, self-belief and life skills is massive,” said Courtney.

“Participants leave the program knowing how to present themselves professionally and contribute positively to their communities, often after periods of hardship. It’s amazing to see.”

Today, Courtney has personally mentored 74 young people, with 72 per cent progressing into employment or further education. Her work demonstrates the transformative impact of investing in young people, with more than 50% of PCYC staff across NSW aged under 25.

“It’s an organisation that genuinely empowers young people and supports them in reaching their goals. I experienced that support myself when PCYC took a chance on me while I was still young, and it changed my life.”

In April 2026, Courtney accompanied ten young First Nations basketball players to the United States as part of the new PCYC NSW Indigenous All-Stars sporting pathways program. As a mentor on the tour, she supported the athletes as they competed in junior varsity competitions and developed skills well beyond the court.

“It was more than sport; these young people embarked on a once-in-a-lifetime development opportunity. None of them had left Australia before. It was so rewarding to see them travel, develop independence and a sense of purpose.” Said Courtney.

The same support that helped Courtney find her path in life is now helping hundreds of young people across NSW build brighter futures. PCYC youth programs are made possible by donors, partners, and supporters. Help us create more stories like Courtney’s.