Face Your Future Event Inspires Invercargill Teen

A two day event in Auckland, designed to inspire young people in care, has done just that for 17-year-old Darcy McMurdo.

Darcy, who has been in Foster Care since he was 2 years old, was the only Southlander selected to attend the L’Oreal Face Your Future event, run in conjunction with Fostering Kids New Zealand.

He shared a motivating two days, socialising with others in a similar position to him and hearing from inspirational guest speakers, including singer and music producer Pieter T, content producer and film-maker Sydney-Anne Martin and NZ First MP Ron Mark, with each sharing their experience of being in care and what they have since gone on to achieve.

Darcy says the two days were hugely beneficial.

“I’ve changed from when I went up there to the way I am now… I’m focussing on getting stuff done, instead of sitting around not doing anything. I’m more motivated,” he said.
“I think one of the main messages I took was to never give up. It doesn’t matter what people do or say, keep your mind focussed and in the right space and you’ll be fine.”

Family Works Social Worker David Griffin, who has worked alongside Darcy for the past year, said “Darcy gained so much from this event. I can’t thank L’Oreal and Fostering Kids enough for this gift. I am sure it will bring him benefits for years to come.”

To read more about Darcy’s experience at Face Your Future see www.familyworkssld.nz.