CPL widens choices for First Nations peoples with TAFE Queensland Scholarships
CPL - Choice Passion Life, like TAFE Queensland, has been a long-term, significant contributor to the Queensland community. The two organisations share more than just values, profile and longevity however; they’re now combining forces to help change lives through education.
Since 2022, CPL - a leading provider of supports for people living with disability and their families - has funded 23 TAFE Queensland scholarships, supporting First Nations peoples to train with TAFE Queensland in any study area at any campus, or online.
CPL Group Chief Executive Officer Rhys Kennedy said the scholarship partnership was put in place as part of CPL’s commitment to reconciliation following the launch of their first Reconciliation Action Plan in 2021.
“We are funding these TAFE Queensland scholarships with the aim of removing obstacles faced by First Nations people, and/or people with disabilities, who aspire to pursue and advance their careers in their chosen domains,” Mr Kennedy said.
“As these recipients succeed, we hope their stories of accomplishment encourage others to pursue their own aspirations.”
Launched in 2015, the TAFE Queensland Scholarship Program has awarded over $2.6 million, helping more than 550 Queenslanders to pursue their career goals.
The TAFE Queensland Scholarship Program awards each recipient $5,000 to study any Certificate III through to an Advanced Diploma or Bachelor Degree at any of our over 60 campus locations or online.
Scholarships help cover the costs of course fees, textbooks and living expenses.
Two types of scholarships are available, one being Merit scholarships - for those who have demonstrated strong levels of achievement to advance their careers. The second is Access and Equity scholarships designed to help students who are battling social or financial hardship.
TAFE Queensland Chief Executive Officer John Tucker said scholarships can be life-changing for students, providing them with the financial support and encouragement they need to build a better future for themselves and those around them.
“We are very grateful for sponsors like CPL and through the power of training and skills we are helping our students to achieve their career aspirations,” Mr Tucker said.
Any individual, organisation or industry partner is able to contribute to the TAFE Queensland Scholarship Program through donations or sponsorship.
"Our advice to other organisations is to remember that creating change requires self-awareness, a willingness to be proactive in identifying inequality and using initiative and resources to act. Through education, knowledge and culture, better opportunities are created for all," Mr Kennedy said.
“Having the opportunity to pursue a nationally recognised qualification in various industries opens a multitude of possibilities for those seeking to further their studies. Being part of this journey is truly rewarding."