Higher education student of the year Finalists
Rose Deng
Bachelor of Community Mental Health, Alcohol and Other Drugs
Rose turned her struggles with mental health and substance abuse into something positive. She started studying for a Bachelor of Community Mental Health, Alcohol and Other Drugs.
Rose wanted to learn more so she could teach her South Sudanese community about these topics. She is looking to break down the stigma around mental health and drug and alcohol abuse in her community.
Her teachers were impressed by how Rose balanced schoolwork, community service and personal challenges. She is always ready to guide her peers, join in meaningful talks and encourage those in need.
Rose’s leadership in class and efforts in youth and mental health advocacy have helped those around her.
Journalists and community leaders have also seen Rose’s contributions: she has featured in two newspaper articles emphasising the importance of mental health awareness in the South Sudanese community.
Umanda Fernando
Bachelor of Community Mental Health, Alcohol and Other Drugs
Umanda studied a Bachelor of Community Mental Health, Alcohol and Other Drugs to begin a career in counselling. She has gained skills and confidence, and is ready to move into her dream job.
During her studies, Umanda secured two highly competitive placements: one with La Trobe Community Health Services and another with the Department of Families, Fairness and Housing.
Umanda enjoyed the small class groups at Chisholm because students have easier access to their teachers. She said this course has helped her grow and boosted her passion for her future career.
Annie Holborow
Graduate Certificate in Family Violence (Prevention and Practice)
Annie wants to help children and young people by creating a service for those facing family violence. That's why she completed a Graduate Certificate in Family Violence (Prevention and Practice).
She is a member of the Victim Survivors’ Advisory Council (VSAC) and chair of the Children and Young People’s VSAC focus group. Annie has shared her insights on children and young people's experiences with family violence.
Annie's long-term goal is to establish an organisation for children and young people experiencing family violence. This shows her commitment to creating lasting change in the community.
Madison Killeen
Graduate Certificate in Family Violence (Prevention and Practice)
Madison wants to make a difference in her career after finishing a Graduate Certificate in Family Violence (Prevention and Practice). She is now continuing her studies with a Master's in Social Work
Studying has given Madison the confidence to refer to her experience in a professional setting.
Her primary work is in family law, where she addresses family violence. She works with victim-survivors and perpetrators, to make sure legal protections and support systems are accessible.
Madison wants to ensure those impacted by family violence receive the support and protection they need.
Erin Platt
Graduate Certificate in Family Violence (Working with Men)
Erin completed the Graduate Certificate in Family Violence (Working with Men), enabling her to continue her work in the family violence prevention sector.
Supporting students from all backgrounds, including those with sensory challenges, Nelly offers a diverse and inclusive learning space.
Since completing the course, Erin has worked one-to-one with men in the sector, including fathers who choose to use violence. She provides risk assessments of participants. She trains staff to work with men and presents at The Orange Door.
Erin has also presented on male perpetrated violence at the 2024 Anglicare Australia National Conference in Newcastle.
Shivam Yadav
Bachelor of Community Mental Health, Alcohol and Other Drugs
During his Bachelor of Community Mental Health, Alcohol and Other Drugs studies, Shivam developed his skills to become an excellent community services worker.
Shivam was focused, receptive to feedback on assessments and friendly to instructors and fellow students. He excelled in the course, achieving well-earned distinctions.
His teacher believes Shivam is ready to work with complex clients in a people-centered, evidence-based manner.