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The arrival of this little girl was, as it should be, celebrated as a most joyous occasion, bringing shared excitement and discussion about life and legacy.
Her arrival prompted me to reflect upon the differences between my first pregnancy and that of her mother’s (my daughter). As an expecting teenager my pregnancy experience was a lonely one, I was isolated from my own village of support and judged by those who didn’t know me. Once my twins were born there was negativity attached to my little family because of my age. Individuals making cruel comments and organisations making unfounded assessments about my capability. While the views of others only fueled me to tenaciously pursue goals that I set for myself, there is no doubt that for a long time they influenced my sense of self-worth.
The stigma surrounding young parenthood looms large, which is why it’s so important to be connected to those who affirm you, who encourage you to dream big, who support you to carve a path towards the future you want. I want all young parents to know that the early negative views of others are not a predictor of how your family will flourish. The future for your children, and the generations that follow, will be the one you create for them, and they will thrive and belong!
Written by Brave Foundation CEO Jill Roche
10 January 2025
