First Nations students use scholarships to gain new skills for their future careers

Rhiannon Clarke Published September 8, 2023 at 2.00pm (AWST)

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Recipients Micheal Lacey and Karmila Saunders (Image: supplied by Tafe Queensland)

TAFE Queensland, the state's largest training provider, will grant around 100 potentially life-changing scholarships to successful students.

Applications for the Scholarships Program will close on Friday 29 September. Each recipient will be awarded $5,000 to study any Certificate III through to an Advanced Diploma or Bachelor Degree from over 60 campuses locations across Queensland or online.

Yiman woman Karmila Saunders said the scholarship has been instrumental in helping her to grow her skills to make a difference in the lives of troubled youths.

"The more I can learn, the more I can help my mob and the kids," she said

"...I was worried because I hadn't studied for such a long time and I learn by having conversations and putting pen to paper, not following a link on the computer.

"And just when I was about to start, my dad passed away. I flew into a bit of a panic because I needed to be at TAFE but I received so much support and calls checking on me from time to time to see how I was going. The support I received was incredible."

"I achieved something. I wasn't a nobody, a nothing." said Ms Saunders

Wakka Wakka man Mick Lacey is thankful his TAFE Queensland Scholarship has enabled him to learn the skills to be able to play a pivotal role in improving the health of his mob.

"Honestly, TAFE Queensland has been fantastic. The teachers are so supportive and really want to see you succeed. And everything is so flexible - they understand work commitments," he said.

"I've loved it and whenever I am talking to people as part of my job I am asking them if they are at school and encourage them to think about TAFE, especially healthcare because there are lots of jobs and it's so rewarding."

"I am so grateful that I was able to access the scholarship..." said Mr Lacey

TAFE Queensland Chief Executive Officer John Tucker said scholarships help cover the costs of course fees, text books and living expenses.

"We know the power vocational education and training has to change people's lives and we want to help people fulfil their career potential regardless of their circumstances," Mr Tucker said.

"First launched in 2015, the TAFE Queensland Scholarship Program has awarded over $2.6million in scholarships; helping more than 550 Queenslanders pursue their career goals.

"There are three types of scholarships available, one being Access and Equity scholarships which are designed to help students who are battling social or financial Hardship.

"Merit scholarships aimed at supporting people who have demonstrated strong levels of achievement to advance their careers, and Emerging Athlete (Merit) scholarships."

To be eligible, applicants must be an Australian citizen or permanent resident and must commence study in Semester 1, 2024 or be an existing TAFE Queensland first year apprentice at the time of submitting the application.

"Scholarships can be life-changing for students, and TAFE Queensland is incredibly grateful for the support of organisations who generously donate each year to the TAFE Queensland Foundation which funds our scholarships program," Mr Tucker said.

"We are helping 100 students to change their lives and achieve their career aspirations."

With an average of 600 applications received each year, Mr Tucker said he encourages anyone looking to start their career or make a career change to apply now.

"Whether you're leaving school, considering a career change or looking to upskill, all Queenslanders are urged to apply."

To apply visit https://tafeqld.edu.au/scholarships