Hey everyone, I’m Crystal, an international student in Sydney, Australia, studying Master's in Teaching- Early Childhood Education. Teaching young kids has always been my dream, and I want to create classrooms where children not only learn but also feel safe, valued, and emotionally supported from the very start.

Coming from a single-parent household, I know what it means to struggle financially, mentally, and emotionally. My mum raised three kids on her own, and I’ll never forget the old car she refused to replace because she just couldn’t afford to. It broke down all the time, leaving us stranded on the side of the road, filled with roaches and it was a constant reminder of how tough things were. Now, as I pursue my education, I want to break my family’s generational cycle of hardship and ensure that financial struggles don’t dictate opportunities, for myself or for the children I will teach. But right now, I’m struggling to keep up with my tuition fees, and I need your help to stay in school. As an international student, I don’t qualify for government financial aid, and balancing work with full-time study has been overwhelming.

Why This Matters

I believe that mental health awareness starts in the early years, and I want to create classrooms where children are not only learning but also developing emotional intelligence. I want them to recognise their feelings, express themselves freely, and know that their emotions are valid and learn how to regulate them.

Every child deserves a supportive and caring environment that nurtures their growth... not just academically, but emotionally. This is more than just a degree for me, it’s a mission to make a difference in children's lives from the start and help build a world where mental health is prioritised from the very start.

I truly believe that mental health starts in early childhood. Kids should grow up knowing how to express their emotions, feel safe asking for help, and understand what are emotions.

I didn't get these privileges when I was young, therefore I want to bring that into my classroom and make a difference in how young children experience education.

How You Can Help

Every $1 makes a difference , seriously! Just $1.

Your generosity will go directly toward my tuition fees, helping me stay enrolled and continue my studies. I know times are tough for everyone, and I don’t expect big donations. Honestly, $1 helps. Every bit goes directly towards my tuition fees, so I can keep working towards my dream.

I appreciate every single one of you who takes the time to read this. Your support isn’t just helping me stay in school; it’s helping me build a future where young children grow up understanding that their mental health matters. Thank you for believing in me and helping me keep this dream alive.

Much love,

Crystal