Josephine goes from struggle to strength

She began a Bachelor of Advanced Science with plans to major in genetics or biomedical research. But the reality was far from what she’d hoped.

“The stress of chasing grades was really getting to me,” she recalled. “I wasn’t enjoying it, so I dropped out after my first year.”

What followed was a period of uncertainty. Josephine worked as a barista while she searched for a new purpose.

During this time, she noticed something important: she was often the one her coworkers turned to when they needed support.

Drawing on her own lived experiences with mental health, Josephine found herself naturally listening, encouraging, and connecting.

“That’s when I discovered mental health peer work,” she said.

“I’ve struggled with my own mental health since my early teens, and when you’ve been through that, you start to see the gaps in the system that people fall through. I realised I wanted to be part of the change that needs to happen.”

Josephine enrolled in the Certificate IV in Mental Health Peer Work (CHC43515) at TAFE Queensland, determined to turn her personal challenges into professional strengths.

On her first day, she was thrown into an unexpected icebreaker: a treasure hunt across campus with classmates she’d just met.

What could have been awkward quickly turned into teamwork, laughter, and the start of strong friendships.

“That treasure hunt was the perfect metaphor for what was to come. Studying community services isn’t just about overcoming challenges. It’s about connection, laughter, and supporting each other along the way,” Josephine explained.

Her teachers and classmates all played a massive part in that journey.

“They gave me so much kindness and encouragement. My teachers shared so much invaluable industry experience, and my classmates helped broaden my horizons. Every gesture meant the world to me.”

TAFE Queensland’s hands-on learning gave Josephine both practical skills and knowledge; she also gained a newfound sense of confidence through her studies.

She learned to lead client sessions, respond effectively to risks, and advocate for people who needed support, with her vocational placement allowing her to put her skills into practice and confidently step into the industry.

“After just one year, I felt so much more at ease working with clients, and I feel ready to begin my career in mental health,” she said.

Josephine’s aim is to work in the community services and mental health sector, ideally with young people.

She hopes to combine one-on-one peer support with group activities and public speaking, spreading awareness and challenging stigma.

“In five to ten years, I see myself more confident and happier working in mental health, supporting others, but also making time for my own life and hobbies,” she said.

For Josephine, studying at TAFE Queensland has been a life-changing experience. What began as uncertainty and struggle has become a clear path forward - one built on resilience, empathy, and hope.

“I owe so much to the people who supported me. Now, I want to be that support for others,” concluded Josephine.