Scholarship inspires Mia to support Indigenous youth

As a proud Kamilaroi and Wiradjuri woman studying a Certificate IV in Youth Work (CHC40421), Mia hopes to create safe and supportive spaces where young people feel heard, valued, and empowered to succeed.

“I decided to study youth work because I’d like a career making a difference in young people’s lives, especially Indigenous youth,” said Mia.

“I didn’t receive much help going through the school system when I needed it, especially culturally appropriate help, so I want to be someone young people can relate to and feel comfortable talking to.”

Her passion for supporting the community was strengthened through cultural connections and leadership opportunities during her studies, including taking part in Youth Week celebrations at TAFE Queensland’s South Bank campus.

The event brought together students, staff, and community members to celebrate culture, identity, and connection, with respected Elder Janine Jenkins-Munro and her dance group performing and sharing stories throughout the day.

“It was fantastic to see her get the whole room up to learn a cultural dance,” Mia said.

“I was lucky enough to join in on the day of dancing and celebrating my culture. I was painted in ochre (soil or charcoal), and I was gifted my own traditional kangaroo and emu feather skirt, a possum skin, and a dilly bag. It was such an honour.”

Receiving a TAFE Queensland Scholarship has also played a significant role in helping Mia pursue her goals and focus on her studies.

“Receiving the scholarship was an incredibly rewarding and emotional moment. I felt grateful, proud, and genuinely encouraged.”

“It felt like recognition of my hard work and potential, and it reassured me that I was moving in the right direction with my studies and career goals.”

Since launching in 2015, the TAFE Queensland Scholarship Program has awarded more than $3.4 million to help Queenslanders pursue their career goals through education and training.

The scholarships assist with study-related expenses, including course fees, travel, childcare, uniforms, tools, and learning materials, helping make study more accessible for students across the state.

Mia received an Access and Equity Scholarship, sponsored by Fujitsu, which supports students facing barriers to education and training, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, in achieving their study and career goals.

She said the scholarship eased financial pressure and gave her greater confidence to pursue opportunities she may not have considered before.

“It has encouraged me to step outside my comfort zone, aim higher professionally, and believe that I’m capable of achieving long-term success,” she said.

“Knowing that others have invested in my education has inspired me to work even harder and make the most of every opportunity.”

Throughout her studies, Mia has developed practical skills in communication, leadership, teamwork, advocacy, and culturally informed support practices.

“One of the biggest things I’ve gained through the course is a better understanding of how to support and communicate with young people in a safe, respectful way,” she said.

“I’m especially excited about learning how to better support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth through culturally informed practices and advocacy.”

She also praised the support she has received from her Community Services teachers throughout the course.

“I couldn’t ask for a better teacher than Bronwyn Cervantes - she’s such a good mentor," she said.

After completing her qualification, Mia hopes to continue supporting young people while further developing her skills through ongoing study.

“My goal is to create safe and supportive spaces where youth feel understood, encouraged, and empowered to achieve their goals,” she said.

“The scholarship opportunity means a lot to me because it’s helping me build a future where I can give back to my community and make a positive impact in young people’s lives.”

For anyone considering studying youth work or applying for a scholarship, she has one simple message.

“Go for it. Opportunities like TAFE Queensland Scholarships can truly change your life and open doors you may never have imagined possible.”

“Even if you doubt yourself at times, staying committed and believing in your goals can lead to amazing opportunities and personal growth,” concluded Mia.