Academy of Sport turns Kiara’s dream career into reality

“Sometimes I stop and think about how lucky I am to work in sport. It’s something I would have done anything to achieve,” Kiara said.

Her journey into the elite sporting industry didn’t follow the traditional university pathway that many people expect.

Instead, it started with TAFE Queensland’s Academy of Sport, studying a Diploma of Leadership and Management and Diploma of Sport (BSB50420/SIS50321) through the Gold Coast College of Sport and Business (GCCSB) - a unique partnership between TAFE Queensland and the Gold Coast SUNS.

Delivered in partnership between TAFE Queensland and the Gold Coast SUNS, the GCCSB allows students to learn within the four walls of an elite sporting organisation at the Gold Coast SUNS’ world-class facilities.

Based at Gold Coast SUNS - Austworld Centre in Carrara, students complete the dual diplomas, gaining practical skills in leadership, relationship management, teamwork, and sport industry operations.

The course includes up to 100 hours or 30 days of work-integrated learning across a range of departments within the SUNS organisation.

Students can also engage with Gold Coast SUNS staff, managers, and coaches, building industry connections and real-world experience while they study.

After completing her GCCSB studies, Kiara initially believed university was the only way to achieve her career goals. But after struggling to enjoy the degree she was pursuing at university, an unexpected opportunity changed everything.

“I was considering taking a leave of absence from university when GCCSB Program Manager, Kylie Drum, reached out after I’d stayed in touch, just like she encouraged us to do,” she said.

That conversation led to a casual role assisting with recruitment for the third GCCSB cohort, including open days, contacting prospective students, and supporting game-day operations.

“After being told by a Uni lecturer that no one in the room was qualified to work in elite sport without a bachelor’s degree, I proudly walked into my mock interview ready to tell her I already did,” she said.

Over the following eight months, Kiara balanced a variety of responsibilities while proving she was ready for more.

“I wasn’t sure if a full-time role would come, but I worked hard to show I was ready for it,” she said.

That hard work paid off in December 2025 when she was offered a full-time role as the Student Coordinator with the Gold Coast SUNS.

“For me, that was proof that if I set a goal, backed myself, and put in the work, things could fall into place,” continued Kiara.

Reflecting on the past three seasons, she said the experience has transformed her both personally and professionally.

“I’ve come out of my shell, built confidence in myself and what I’m capable of, and said yes to opportunities I would have shied away from before.”

One standout achievement has been helping grow the GCCSB social media presence and contributing to the program's continued success.

“It reminded me that you don’t have to know everything to do a good job. You just need to be willing to ask questions and learn,” she explained.

Working in the fast-paced sporting environment has also taught her valuable lessons in adaptability and resilience.

“On game days, nothing ever really goes exactly to plan, so learning to adapt quickly has become second nature.”

Kiara credited the SUNS team, GCCSB students, and her mentor, Kylie Drum, for her instrumental support in their success.

“Kylie’s support, encouragement, and belief in me are something I’ll forever be grateful for,” she said.

Now, with a thriving career already underway, she’s excited for what comes next.

“I’m really proud of how far I’ve come and excited to see what the future brings,” concluded Kiara.