With five children to care for, including two of her own and her three siblings, Shayna Henry-Camilleri feels older than her 22 years. But the Sydenham woman’s dedication to keeping family together has won her a major carers award. She talks to Ben Cameron.
How did it feel to recently win the Foster and Kinship Carer Award?
It was crazy, even just being nominated. We were so surprised to be nominated, so winning it was an even bigger surprise.
How long have you worked as a carer?
I’ve never really worked in the industry. My kids are my sister and brothers – they’re 19, 13 and 10. They were in my nan and pop’s care for about six years, and my pop suddenly passed away, so they were with my nan. But after my nan passed away six months later, they were either going to go back into care and a foster family, or they would stay with me. We [my partner and I] decided that was the best for them. I’ve had them the past three years.
It must have been a big change to your life?
I was studying childcare, and I had a two year old.
What happened to your mum?
She got involved in drugs and alcohol. I was also raised by my aunty. We’ve all been in the system for as long as I can remember, really.
You must be very busy these days.
It’s been crazy, with schooling and having to take kids to school and meetings … my partner working extra hours to support all the kids – we have a six-week-old, too.
Have you had to make many sacrifices?
I’ve had to give up studying – coming home and helping them with homework and doing my own homework, I just wasn’t keeping up. We’ve had to move houses, too. We’re in Sydenham. We’ve been here a couple of years. We came from St Albans. I grew up in Bacchus Marsh, but my partner grew up in the area. I came here when I was 16. My partner’s parents took me in as foster parents.
What’s been your biggest motivation?
Because I was in care and, as well, they’re my brother and sisters, I just always wanted to get them out of the system. I knew when I was growing up that one day I’d get them all. We become legal guardians next year. It’s been hard, but everything’s settling down; that’s why we’re going for permanent care.
Apart from family ties, what else had driven you to be a carer?
Growing up through it myself, knowing what it’s like not to live with your parents, not have a stable home. I’d love to give every kid a home; I know what it’s like to move around and not have a family.
What’s helpful about living in Sydenham?
This area, we don’t want to move from … the kids play footy for Caroline Springs Football Club, everything’s close and so easy, it’s the best area for families. Usually I end up at Watergardens, shopping, or go to Brimbank Park for the kids or take the dog for a walk.
What are your goals for the near future?
My closest goal is just to get permanent care of them, no more Department of Human Services, that’s my closest goal.
And to get back into study.
