In 2023 Debbie Hester, a local woman from Kununurra and a single mother of two, embarked on a Traineeship in BSB40120 Certificate IV in Business through Kimberley Group Training. While completing her Traineeship through Main Roads, Debbie initially faced the challenge of covering the costs on her own. However, her journey took a positive turn when she was introduced to the Mary MacKillop Today First Nations Vocational Scholarship through the North Regional TAFE Aboriginal Training Services (ATS) Team in Kununurra.
Applying for the Scholarship was a straightforward process, and Rhaylene's (Aboriginal Education Support Officer) guidance made it even smoother. The financial support from the Scholarship alleviated Debbie's concerns about payment, allowing her to focus solely on her studies and work to accomplish her goal.
Rhaylene's consistent support was instrumental. She regularly checked in and providing a safety net for Debbie. Quick responses to emails and a genuine willingness to help showcased the ATS Team's commitment.
"The ATS Team offered me the emotional support I needed. When I started my Traineeship, I couldn't find the balance between study and work. The ATS Team offered me help and the space on campus to study.
In my course, I have learned topics such as time management, meeting deadlines, creating complex documents, work health and safety procedures, and customer service. These topics and my assignments all applied to my job at Main Roads.
The growth of TAFE has benefitted the community, giving everyone equal opportunity and more access to training services. TAFE has a way of connecting the younger ones who are in their last year of schooling and want to upskill before entering the workforce. Then there are those who are job seekers in their 30s and 40s looking for a change in their career. There are opportunities for everyone no matter what age or background."
The NR TAFE ATS Team are always available to support students and to connect with our local communities. If you would like to reach out to the ATS Team or find out how the Mary MacKillop Today First Nations Vocational Scholarship can help you, click the links below:
Note: Rhaylene has transitioned to a new role and is now the Aboriginal Youth Engagement Coordinator at our Kununurra Campus