26/11/2025
Being the voice of change 💥
Six months ago, Insideout Pathways didn't even exist. It was just a single post which I put up on the community page. Telling a bit of my story, and asking for help.
Didn't think anything of it. Didn't have a plan. Didn't think anyone would care, and definitely didn't think the community would show up like it did. But f*ck me. People reached out. Doors opened.
And before I knew it, a group of people came together - some who’d walked the same path I had, and others who were professionals in this space - all wanting to help. We sat down, shared ideas, and in that moment, InsideOut Pathways was born.
What started as a series of unfortunate events in my life, suddenly became something with purpose.
InsideOut Pathways was built to help people coming out of prison find real support, direction, and employment opportunities. Actual pathways to rebuild their lives - the kind of help I wish existed when I was trying to rebuild mine..
I've seen firsthand what happens when someone finally has purpose - a job, a routine, a community. People change. People stabalise. People start believing they're worth something again. And when that happens, going back inside becomes the last thing on their mind.
In six months, I've met with people I never would've crossed paths with. I've learned so much more than I thought I was capable of. I've sat on round-tables with organisations who've been in this space for years, discussing issues I never imagined I'd have a seat to talk about.
I’ve appeared on podcasts, spoken live to an audience, and stepped wayyy out of my comfort zone more times than I can count - to me thats massive. As a (sober) introvert, once upon a time I wouldn't have even thought about doing any of these things without having a few drinks under my belt.
And for the first time in a long time, I actually felt proud of myself.
None of this happened because life was going smoothly. Didn't come from confidence or having my s**t sorted. I was lost! What I have learned though, is those 'unfortunate events' actually led me here, and down this path.
Most importantly, since we've started, Insideout Pathways has been able to help prison leavers find that second chance with an employer willing to give them one. Everytime we get a call saying they got the job.. or that they're still working.. or that they're doing better than they ever have... that s**t hits me right in the feels. It changes them, their family, and the community they're returning to.
Anyway, the reason why I'm writing this is because I'd like to say to anyone who feels stuck, lost, or weighed down by life right now... You may not see it yet but those hard times may be pushing you exactly where you're meant to be. Take the first step. Even if it's small. Or messy. Or even if you have no idea where it'll lead. 'Cause I didn't.
Insideout pathways started from one uncomfortable post that I nearly talked myself out of, exactly 6 months ago today. It was literally a moment of, 'F*ck it', then pressed SHARE. That one choice created connections, opened doors, and helped change lives - including mine.
So whatever you're sitting on.. if it's an idea, dream, purpose or change that you've been too scared to start.. Start anyway. Start scared. Start unsure. You have no idea who you might help. Or who might show up for you. Or how far it could take you.
If this hoodrat from Logan can do it....
l&r
Vincent
