Francesca and Grant Associates

Francesca Kelly is a mother of five who rarely puts herself first.

Raising a large family comes with challenges, and many days felt overwhelming.

"Some days I do feel like it's hard, but I know at the same time, if I do give up, I can't take care of my children."

Before connecting with Grant Associates, part of APM Group in the United States, Francesca worked at a hospital.

When she left her job, she made the decision to focus on her children and their needs.

Without work, she relied on government assistance while figuring out what came next.

Through the Department of Human Services, Francesca was connected with Grant Associates.

At the time, she was carrying more than most people could see.

"Miss Francesca, she was very hesitant because she had a lot going on and she felt ashamed of things that were going on in her life," said Gwen, a member of the Grant Associates team.

Francesca often worried about how others would view her circumstances.

"I don't even say that I have five children when I am applying to a job," she said.

"I try to be as discreet as possible when it comes to my children and especially because they have so many disabilities."

The pressure sometimes affected her confidence and belief in herself.

"It was very hard, but she would go in and out of the depression and saying, 'I can't do this, Miss Gwen,'" Gwen recalled.

"But then we will find that empty moment that I can say, 'You can do it.'"

Together, they focused on Francesca's strengths, her goals and the future she wanted for herself and her family.

That encouragement helped her take the next step.

"Miss Gwen had told me that they had a position open at JHP," Francesca said.

The opportunity proved to be a turning point.

The team at JHP quickly recognised her potential.

"The programme director, he said, 'Hey, we have this candidate, someone I interviewed. I like her a lot, she's bilingual. I think she'll be an asset to the team.'"

When she started, Francesca was quiet and reserved.

"My first impression was she was just a little bit shy and timid, but there was something about her that I immediately connected to," her manager said.

Over time, that confidence began to grow.

Today, Francesca manages a caseload of more than 30 individuals.

She has built a career helping others navigate their own challenges and goals.

"I love working with people, right?" she said.

"And I love all my customers and I try to do whatever I have to do, talk to them, see where they're coming from."

Her growth has been inspiring for those who have been part of her journey.

"I can't even say how proud I am of her to see where she came from to where she is now," Gwen said.

"She deserves everything that she worked for."

For Francesca, employment has provided more than a job. Looking ahead, she remains focused on continuing to grow and achieve more.

"I want to get to a place where I'm at my full potential."