Fabian, a 55-year-old man from a remote island in Fiji, has lived with bipolar disorder for most of his life. The stigma surrounding his condition made it difficult for him to share his experiences or feel comfortable venturing far from home.
When Fabian first joined the Economic Empowerment Project training sessions – run by Mary MacKillop Today’s local partner, the Psychiatric Survivors Association (PSA) – he was very reserved and hardly spoke.
“I was really scared to talk about my illness,” he said.
But as he continued attending sessions, Fabian began to feel safe and supported. Over time, he opened up to other participants. Not only did he gain practical skills for financial independence, but he also discovered that he wasn’t alone – others were facing similar challenges.
The biggest transformation came during PSA’s Start Your Business training. By the end of the program, Fabian had become the most outspoken participant, eager to share his thoughts and ideas.
“I felt like I could finally be myself and explore new opportunities. The training has given me the confidence to believe that life has more to offer beyond the isolation of my home” he shared.
Fabian has also learned to live without relying on medication, which has made a significant difference in his wellbeing.
His journey from quiet and withdrawn to confident and empowered shows the positive impact of PSA’s program. Fabian’s story highlights the importance of creating safe, inclusive spaces for people with psychosocial disabilities – places where stigma is broken down, skills are built, and futures can be reimagined.
Thank you for helping people like Fabian gain the confidence for a brighter future.
The Economic Empowerment Project receives support from the Australian Government through the Australian NGO Cooperation Program (ANCP).
