Hi, I’m Pearl. My role as a BikeRescue Mentor at Dismantle involves upcycling bikes, driving the van and kicking the footy. Most importantly, though, it’s meeting Perth’s troubled youth where they are at. I’m there to be an older sister, a friend, and a good role model.

 I recognise that the young people on BikeRescue face an overwhelming number of social issues, which no amount of Centrelink employment schemes or drug and alcohol awareness campaigns can address.

But when I sit down, listen to their stories and understand into their world of hurt, I witness a kind of healing that I haven’t seen elsewhere. This is the opportunity Dismantle gives me: to connect with and empower the young people of Australia’s future.

 My background is occupational therapy, and I’m currently completing my honours research in dementia care. In the future, I hope to work alongside refugees, women living in refuges and prisoners, helping these individuals to restore themselves and their communities physically, mentally and spiritually.