Ina Mullin

Name: Ina Mullin
Age: 30
Occupation: Communications / Media Coordinator Youth off the Streets

She does a job she loves and one which is helping make the world a better place. As media coordinator for Youth off The Streets Ina's work is focused on helping disadvantaged kids by raising the profile of what Youth off the Streets is all about. A love of politics, different cultures and a firm belief in social justice is what she is about. She is passionate about her work because she believes her contribution is helping make a positive difference to our world and we wholeheartedly agree!

Who was your role model/s when you were a teen?
I was never into celebs, so I would have to say my mum was the person I looked up to most in my teenage years (although I probably wouldn't have admitted it then!) Mum is the most patient person I know. She loves life and brings joy to many people's lives. She makes time for everyone and anyone, I don't know how she fits everything in! She has dedicated her life to helping others. She stands up for what she believes in, especially if it is to help the underdog and even if it may have consequences for her.

I was also surrounded by wonderful friends with interesting hobbies, and a variety of strengths, whether they were public speaking, writing, reading, making conversation with strangers, acting and adventuring or just great sounding boards, listeners and advice givers. They were wonderful friends and still are!

How did your role model/s help you?
Wow, where do I start! Since my role models were people in my life, I have been and still am lucky enough to have them around to help me all the way. Mum was great for chats and still is; we have solved many a world problem while peeling potatoes! She has a great way of seeing the positive in situations and an unwavering belief in me and my abilities. This has always helped me through any tough or scary situations - HSC stress, family loss, that job interview, boyfriend troubles!

My friends are great sounding boards and we also spend a lot of time discussing inequalities in the world today and how we can overcome them. Friends are special as they do not have to be unwavering in their belief in each other's abilities. Sometimes a friend's doubt can prompt me to work harder. Other times, they can persuade me to take a different path. Friends can recognise your strengths and be honest about your weaknesses, but most of all, no matter what decision you make, a true friend will still be there with you, even if the path you chose doesn't work out.

What role or influence do you think role models have?
I think we seek role models, not only as someone to look up to and admire, but to help us better understand ourselves and help justify who we are and the decisions we make. A positive role model can be of great benefit, even if we don't know them personally. We can still learn from their mistakes and work on emulating or even improving on their successes.

What were some of the issues you faced as a teen?
I had what seemed at the time like a never ending struggle for more independence. Having two older brothers, it seemed that they always had more freedom than me. Looking back, I think I wanted to grow up too fast! Mum and dad must have continually struggled to work out how to balance protection and freedom. I was really lucky though, my memories of my teenage years are mainly good ones.

I also remember my passionate arguments to ensure that household chores were divided evenly between boys and girls. I made my case at every opportunity; I still do today! I realised with the 2006 census though, I was right. Women in Australia, even now, despite our workforce participation rate (which is often equal to the male in the household), still do a much higher rate of house work than men. So, my struggle continues!

Among friends, I remember the difficulty was trying to stay centred. I remember at around 15-16, some friends began exaggerating the truth about our social and love lives to make them seem much more exciting than they were! As rumours came back to me, I remember agonising over whether or not to confront those friends, despite however cool they thought I may have come across in the tales! I guess this is when I realised that I had different priorities in life. The friends that were my real support then though, remain so to this day. I try to give them as much back in return.

What do you remember most about being a teen?
School, laughter, the feeling that the world was at my feet - helped by mum always telling me so! I remember that feeling of believing that I could do anything one day if I put my mind to it. I remember dad constantly reminding me that School were the best years of my life. He was wrong, the other years have been equally as good, just different. School did provide treasured memories though and friends that continue to shape my life, oh, and heaps of holidays!

What qualities do you think you possess that have helped you succeed in your chosen field?
I think my love for people means I can relate to many. I have a genuine interest in the people I have the pleasure to talk to; I like to listen to them and to ask questions. Everyone has a story to tell. I find I can learn a lot from those stories.

I think the social justice element of my personality means I am enjoying my chosen field. When I first entered Public Relations, I was conscious that it is a skill that can be used by disreputable companies to make them look reputable. So, I made the decision to only ever use my skills for organisations that I believe in. Youth Off The Streets supports chronically homeless and drug addicted young Australians as they work to turn their lives around. One of our main aims is to give Australia's most vulnerable young people a voice, I am the lucky one that gets to let the media know what our young people need the public, and our policy makers to hear!

Outside of career success, what is it that you are most proud of?
I am most proud of my friends. I think you can tell a lot about a person by the people they choose to spend time with and the people I choose to spend time with I think are pretty fantastic. Family, you can't choose, but I am extremely proud of them too.

Do you undertake activities to help others/community?
I volunteer at Teresa House which is a crisis refuge for homeless adults run by a charity organisation called Cana Communities. I stay overnight with another volunteer to ensure the safety of our guests. Teresa House is extra special because it is run solely by volunteers. It has a really homely atmosphere and conversation is always colourful! The philosophy behind Teresa House is helping those who are most in need. It makes me feel good to give something back to the community in the hope that I can bring some joy to other people's lives.

Your advice to youths about realising their own potential...
Surround yourself with people you believe in and who believe in you for who you are. Listen and learn from them. Understand that it takes hard work, bravery and determination to get to your destination, but always make sure you have time for fun along the way. If at first you don't succeed, get back up and try again. Never give up!

When it comes to how you live your life, what are the most important factors/values?
Values: Honesty, trust, love and laughter.
Factors: Appreciate those around you, make time for others, make time for work and make time for fun.

Why do you think you make a good role model?
I think a good role model provides support and encouragement in another person's decision to pursue their dream. I hope that I help to provide that support and encouragement to the people in my life and that through knowing me they may get that little bit closer to achieving their dream.