Rose creates a confident career with TAFE Queensland

By choosing to complete a Certificate III in Business (BSB30120) through a traineeship with TAFE Queensland, Rose found confidence and a sense of purpose, all while gaining hands-on experience in a professional workplace.

“After school I still questioned myself on who I was and what I wanted to be,” Rose said.

“I knew starting a traineeship would give me an opportunity to get a ‘feel’ of certain roles and tasks in an office-based environment.”

Rose began her career with TAFE Queensland in 2023 as a trainee and later secured a role as an Administrative Officer within the Student Services team at the Kingaroy campus.

“For me it was not just about the certificate, but making myself proud,” she said.

“It was about pushing myself to be the first person in my family to get a secure job, graduate high school and complete further studies.”

Through her studies, Rose developed strong administrative, organisational and communication skills, but says the real impact came in the confidence she gained to speak up and lead.

“This traineeship saw me gain confidence in workplace communication and leadership,” she said.

“TAFE Queensland gave me a voice and feet to stand on, not just for myself, but for other Indigenous students.”

As a proud First Nations woman from the South Burnett, Rose says the inclusive culture at TAFE Queensland gave her the confidence to find her voice.

“I’ve been able to become a recognised voice for Indigenous students, using my experience to advocate for better student support systems,” she said.

Her contributions have included presenting feedback in a statewide webinar for educators, co-hosting cultural awareness and orientation sessions, and representing other trainees as the primary spokesperson for the First Nations Traineeship Program.

Rose says the quality of training and support she received through TAFE Queensland played a critical role in her success.

“High school felt rushed, but TAFE Queensland gave me the time and one-on-one support I needed to succeed,” she said.

Her determination paid off. Before completing her studies, Rose secured a higher acting role, followed by a full-time permanent position, and achieved a milestone many only dream of.

“I was able to obtain a full-time permanent position all before completing my studies,” she said.

“I even bought my first home at 18 years old.”

In 2026, her career continued to progress when she transitioned into an Administration Officer role with the Educational Planning team, reflecting her growing capability and ambition within the organisation.

“The skills I gained have helped shape me into my future dream job,” she said.

“By working hard and staying committed, I’ve been able to create clearer direction for my life.”

Now passionate about encouraging others to consider vocational education and a career with TAFE Queensland, Rose proudly shares her journey with young people and communities whenever she can.

“I confidently tell others how much I enjoyed working and studying,” she said.

For Rose, success is not just personal, it’s collective.

“When one of us succeeds, all of us succeed,” she said.

“If my journey can inspire others to believe in themselves and take that first step, then I know I’m on the right path.”