Overcoming struggles by helping others

In the face of personal struggles, our passion can become a lifeline and a driving force that empowers us to help others.

Such is the story of Jim. Despite his own battles with mental health and growing up in a family struggling with similar challenges, music provides him with an outlet for coping and an opportunity to touch the lives of others.

"Mental illness runs in my family. I've been dealing with mental health issues since I was 21. My mother and sister also both experienced it. My sister passed away when she was 26 due to her mental health struggles," Jim shares.

Jim channelled his love for music by busking for many years on the streets of Sydney. It brought him joy to share his music with people while also helping others with the money he earned, giving him a sense of purpose and motivation.

"I was a busker for many years, performing in Kings Cross, Wynyard, and Randwick. I loved busking because I could share my music, and I could earn money to help people.  I also loved busking in Randwick because there's a hospital nearby. I met many kind people there who gave me money, hoping for the recovery of their loved ones. I prayed for them too."

After stopping busking in 2018, Jim found a new way to pursue his love for music through the music program at Ozanam Learning Centre (OLC), a community inclusion service run by St Vincent de Paul Society NSW. He joined the OLC Music Collective, the centre’s in-house band, and had the opportunity to finally realise his long-life aspiration.

"I am so thankful to be here at OLC. Having my own album with the band, I feel so good now."

One of his songs, "Love is What We Need," is featured in the band's third album, “Alternate Voices”. The song addresses hunger and greed, highlighting love's potential to address these issues. Jim's music resonates with his belief in the power of love.

"My music is about connecting with people and touching their hearts. We could get caught up in our busy lives, work, and raising children and stuff like that. We forget to pause and listen to our hearts. Life is not just about money. Even if you're rich, you always want for more.”

“For me, music is to find balance. It's about finding inner peace and seeking blessings. If the world was equal, there would be no problems," he concludes.

Jim, along with the OLC Music Collective, will be performing their album, “Alternate Voices”, on 27 July at the Factory Theatre.

The album features 12 original songs that illuminate the personal stories of the band members through the OLC music program.

Tickets for the show are on sale at: https://aucentury.sales.ticketsearch.com/sales/salesevent/110274