Brave Malakai balances school with caring for his mum and sister

Malakai Reinhard is not your average teen.

The 15-year-old balances school with caring for his mum, Lenna, and five-year-old sister, Kataya, both of whom have significant health issues.

"It’s just something I do for my family,” says Malakai. “We support and love each other unconditionally.”

Malakai manages the housework, the shopping, pays the bills and makes sure Lenna and Kataya get to all of their medical appointments.

Thanks to his determination his mother and sister are also able to keep in regular contact with their friends.

Malakai regularly messages his mum during the day to make sure they are okay, have had their lunch and taken their medication.

But the inspirational teen still manages to fit in his studies and hobbies of metal forging and training for WWE (wrestling).

There have been times when Malakai has been the only person in the house able to make a decision.

“I’ve had to call an ambulance or other family members for help,” says Malakai, who receives support from Carers ACT.

“Other proud moments are when I see my baby sister do things I’ve taught her, like cooking, drawing and writing.”

Despite the demands at home, Malakai always finds time to talk things out with friends who are struggling with bullying and other teenage issues.

“Being a carer so young, I instinctively want to help people.

“I’ve been in tough times and know what it’s like to be with supportive friends.”

Malakai says it feels amazing to be voted a Westfield Local Hero.

A $10,000 Westfield grant will be awarded in Malakai’s honour to Carers ACT. It will be used to help fund a drop-in centre.

“It will be a safe place for young carers to get know each other and go get support,” Malakai says.

Carers will also be taught life-skills such as budgeting, cooking and navigating NDIS applications and plans.

For further information on the Westfield Local Heroes program, click here.