“My involvement in the forensic space came in my early 30s and I’ve been engaged in this work for about 6 years. I was spending a lot of time reflecting about how I wanted to spend my time and the type of work I would engage in and after almost 10 years in finance I decided to quit and look for work I would find more meaningful. I never saw myself where I am now, but I’m sure that search for purposeful work and alignment with my values keeps pushing me deeper into this field.
“My ACSO journey has been eye opening, I started off as a forensic case worker in the On Call Program in 2021, working with people who’ve exited custody and needing support in the community. In 2024 I stepped into my current role as an After Hours Coordinator where I provide On Call support to staff across our different programs in Victoria.”
“The team is small, so there’s a real opportunity for people get to know each other well, which we have done. We also have an opportunity to engage with peers and clients across different regions and programs. It surprises me at times how many genuine connections I’ve made with people over phone conversations. The role does come with its challenges, majority of the calls in that space occur when somethings gone wrong and people need guidance and support. I think that’s the unique opportunity the program provides, you get to walk with people in times of uncertainty.
“We take calls from staff or clients after 5pm, every day of the week, and provide support that would be provided by a Team Leader or a Program manager during business hours. A normal day can range from arranging transportation and vouchers for a client, to driving to Bendigo to cover a last-minute overnight shift. Because we have many programs that provide different services, our program tries to fill the gap when everyone offline.”
“I love connecting with people. I value having a yarn with anyone at almost any time, the proverb “there is more wisdom in listening than in speaking” describes it all for me. Most of the times when people call me, they’re calling to hear what I have to say, but I learn more from them by listening to their stories, their challenges and their needs.”
“In the Southern parts of Africa, which is my heritage, we have a belief system called Ubuntu. It’s a philosophy that teaches connection. It means, I am because you are. I feel that believing in humanity is believing in yourself, and seeing yourself in others can solve a lot of the problems with the ‘justice system’.”
“This year I attended the 18th Reintegration Puzzle Conference in Mparntwe (Alice Springs), and ACSO sponsored my attendance. Being in attendance and hearing the stories of the people we work with, learning about their different challenges, affirmed that I’m doing work that I am supposed to be doing.”
“I would like to do more work with younger people, my hope is that my career grows to a space where I can influence greater outcomes, but at moment I’m focused on learning and growing.”
If you’re inspired by the life changing work Martin is doing, learn more about working with ACSO.