Student project makes a difference for homeless youth

When TAFE Queensland's building design student, Thomas Koole first sketched his design for a youth homelessness project, the weight of the task hit him.

"It was quite overwhelming to have our first design project be for a real-life client with real-world applications," he said.

"But it was extremely rewarding to see the impact it could potentially have on many lives over many years."

At TAFE Queensland’s Coomera Creative Campus, the Diploma of Building Design (CPP50921) students were tasked with a real-world project to design relocatable tiny homes for the Gold Coast Youth Outreach project to support young people facing homelessness.

It wasn’t just about walls and roofs. The designs needed to include communal areas and micro-village environments - spaces that could foster both connection and opportunity.

For Thomas, the project was a turning point.

"It helped me believe I could truly design buildings that make a difference, and that clients can trust me to bring their vision to life," he said.

His classmate, Belinda Survilla approached it through empathy.

"My design was focused on creating the feeling of home and belonging, with spaces to play, work and relax,” said Belinda.

“Presenting our designs to Youth Outreach gave me the chance to experience the full process, from client brief to 3D renderings, skills I’ll use daily as a building designer,” she said.

Both Thomas and Belinda began their studies with the Certificate IV in Residential Drafting (CPP40121) at the Coomera Creative campus. The positive experience, combined with the campus’s strong sense of community, inspired them to return and upskill into the Diploma of Building Design to unlock greater career opportunities.

"The teachers are always helpful and willing to go above and beyond," said Thomas.

"My classmates’ talents have pushed everyone to a different level of creativity and work output."

Belinda agrees.

"Being able to collaborate on campus, present work, and receive feedback is invaluable. I’ve met wonderful classmates who continue to inspire me," she said.

Their advice to future building design students is simple.

"Throw yourself into it headfirst," said Thomas

"The teachers will help you get where you need to be to succeed in the real world,” adds Belinda.