Shak in her Apartment.

Those in our Melrose community will recognise the positive energy and contagious smile of budding young artist and musician Shak.

Having moved from Victor Harbor to Adelaide to pursue University studies, Shak now lives in our Fig Tree Apartments.

“I was homeless at 17 and was couch surfing for 7 months,” she said.

Shak’s apartment is the perfect reflection of her personality – surrounded by instruments, artworks and poetry, it is easy to see where her passions lie.

“My dad was a big inspiration for me when it comes to art” said Shak. “I’ve been making art since I was 5, and focused on it through high school”

Beyond art, Shak is also an avid skater and models in her spare time. She has also started designing clothes and participating in poetry nights at the Social Hearts Club.

Starting a new part-time job has been one of the biggest changes in Shak’s life since moving to Adelaide, but it hasn’t stopped her from chasing her real passion.

“I would love to be a tattoo artist. That’s the goal”.

With so much now to look forward to, Shak shared a quote from a poetry book she loves – which helped her maintain positivity and determination through adversity.

“The steeper the mountain, the harder the climb, the better the view from the finishing line.”