David Pavlič from Novo mesto

Nominated by: Zvonka Potočar, Novo Mesto Development Education Centre, PLYA programme

A great music lover, after two years training to be a carer David Pavlič completely lost his motivation and desire to complete his education. He sought help in the Novo mesto Development Education Centre. Participation in the Project Learning for Young Adults (PLYA) programme helped him find a way out of a personal crisis, and set him on a new path. He found new friends and a new job, and set himself new life goals.

David initially enrolled in the biotechnology general upper secondary programme at the Grm Novo mesto Agricultural School. He wasn't keen on the subject, so at the end of year 2 he transferred to secondary carer school. He then experienced family difficulties and needed some time for reflection. He opted for support from mentors in the PLYA programme - they helped him obtain the title of Preschool Educator and pass the vocational matura. Even that wasn't the end of his education. On completing his education he quickly found employment as a carer for children with mobility impairments, so he successfully completed a series of courses for this occupation, which he greatly enjoys. He also completed a national vocational qualification as a masseur.

Today he volunteers in Sonček - the Cerebral Palsy Society of Dolenjska and Bela Krajina. Each year he attends their camp, where he offers help and encouragement to children and young people with special needs. He also helps their parents and people in the wider environment. "His dedication to his work and his curiosity demonstrate that there's no such thing as definitive knowledge, and that it pays to invest energy and time in learning," according to his nomination.

David's story shows the importance of seeking out help when you really need it and where it's available. The fact that he knew how to find it for himself led him to new people, challenges and goals, and so he is delighted to help promote the PLYA programme.