Kowanyama man Liamon Mudd is on track to become a key healthcare figure for his community by pursuing tertiary education with the support of the LEE Ming Tee Cape York Leaders scholarship.

Now in his first year of a Bachelor of Nursing at Deakin University, he completed high school at Peace Lutheran College in Cairns.

Mr Mudd aims to graduate by late 2026 and become a paediatric health nurse, providing essential services for future generations.

Recently, he received a scholarship for his tertiary education.

Encouraged to apply, Mr Mudd later discovered a relative of his was the first-ever recipient of a CYLP scholarship.

The scholarship alleviates the financial burden of university study and provides strong support and guidance from CYLP's Student Support Officers.

Mr Mudd said he chose nursing because he always had a passion for it and wants to be a "voice" for his community.

"I've always had a passion for health and because I had that nature of caring for people and a bubbly personality I chose nursing," he said.

"I want to give back to my community and my people and make a positive impact in healthcare – provide a health service for our mob.

"Having our mob on the ground to provide that culturally safe healthcare service means families can live a healthier, happier lifestyle."

Mr Mudd expressed his satisfaction with CYLP's support network, which will aid him in his studies and his goal to become a Cape York leader in Kowanyama.

"A good leader is someone present, listens and offers support to those around them," he said.

Mr Mudd credited his aunty Tania Major, the first recipient of a tertiary scholarship from Cape York Institute, as a major influence in starting his tertiary education.

This scholarship, funded personally by Cape York Partnership founder Noel Pearson, helped establish the program before CYLP was formed.

"She gave me the guidance and the push I needed to start my journey," Mr Mudd said.

As the first recipient of a scholarship from a program that was just beginning, Ms Major embraced the opportunity.

It allowed her to travel and experience new places.

Her pioneering journey became a model for others, demonstrating the impact of education on their futures and their community.

Meanwhile, Mr Mudd is working full-time at Mookai Rosie Family Health Centre in Cairns while pursuing his studies.