I worked in retail and one other highly stressful front desk position for ridiculously low wages. I was exhausted, stressed, depressed and hopeless. I only recently landed a job I love. A quiet desk position that pays me a living wage, respects me, doesn't expect overtime and is just overall so much better than my other work experiences. My mental health has improved drastically due to this.

I'm here because I want everyone to have this. Everyone deserves a dignified workplace and dignified pay. I'll never forget what I've been through to get where I am now, through sheer luck I'm sure of it, and I'll continue to fight for and support everyone else suffering and struggling in the workforce.

It all needs to be reformed and workers need to take back their power.