They say you never forget the people who helped you when you needed it most. For Malcolm Berry, a talented artist and academic, that moment came 13 years ago when he experienced an overwhelming psychological breakdown. “It was a complete collapse,” Malcolm recalls. “I couldn’t work; I had nothing left.” That’s when he found Wellways, a lifeline that not only helped him rebuild his life but also inspired him to give back in ways that will leave a lasting legacy.
A lifeline in distress
When Malcolm joined a Wellways program focused on recovery through employment opportunities, he was emotionally, mentally, and physically exhausted. Having attained master’s degrees in psychology, literature and drama, Malcolm’s professional career, which had included teaching roles at Monash and Melbourne University, was no longer sustainable. The arts, his lifelong passion, felt out of reach.
Then came a new opportunity: a part-time cleaning role at Wellways. “It was a lifeline,” Malcolm says. “I needed to work, and this was all I had the capacity to do. It gave me purpose and stability. I could breathe again.”
More than just a job, Wellways became a place where Malcolm could heal and grow. Through peer support, he began to rebuild his confidence and sense of self. “The peer workers held hope for me when I couldn’t hold it for myself,” he says. “When I was ready, they handed that hope back to me. It changed my life.”
Career setbacks and new beginnings
With time and support, Malcolm earned certificates in asset management and support care through Wellways. He expanded his career into providing care at a local in-patient hospital. But more importantly, he rediscovered his love for art, which became a central focus of his life.
Today, Malcolm is a highly accomplished artist whose work has been exhibited widely and collected across Australia and internationally. Reflecting his deep gratitude to Wellways, he donates 10% of every sale to support the organisation’s services.
How Wellways supported Malcolm’s recovery
Malcolm’s commitment to giving back extended beyond art. Despite no longer requiring mental health peer support, he chose to stay on as a cleaner at Wellways’ Fairfield office, contributing his time and energy for over a decade. “I wanted to support the people who helped me and others who are now in the same position I once was.” he says.
When Malcolm announced his retirement in early December 2024, the Wellways community responded with overwhelming gratitude for his loyalty, generosity, and friendship. At a small farewell event attended by Wellways executive directors, heartfelt speeches celebrated Malcolm’s incredible contributions.
Laura Collister, Wellways CEO, reflected on Malcolm’s journey, while Director of Services Nikki Wynne shared stories of his impact on others. Malcolm, in turn, moved everyone with his parting words: “I’m leaving Wellways, but Wellways will never leave me. You’ll be a part of me always.”
A legacy of giving back
But Malcolm’s farewell came with one final act of generosity. He revealed he has included Wellways in his will, leaving a $50,000 gift to support vital services such as the peer warmline and LinC volunteer program. “This gift is my way of ensuring Wellways continues to be there for others in their darkest moments,” Malcolm said.
For over 40 years, Wellways has been dedicated to building communities of acceptance and inclusion; places where everyone feels welcome and supported, even if they no longer need our services. Malcolm’s story exemplifies this mutual impact: while Wellways helped him regain hope, he gave back tenfold, touching countless lives through his contributions.
Malcolm’s greatest gift to Wellways will always be his friendship, but his legacy of giving ensures that his impact will be felt for years to come.
If Malcolm’s story resonates with you, consider leaving a gift in your will to Wellways. Your support can help us continue to provide hope and support to people going through challenging times, empowering them on their journey to recovery.
