Explore the extraordinary journeys of our graduates. From diverse backgrounds and unique challenges, they have harnessed their education to create significant impacts in their fields and communities.
As an international student, Jebet moved to Australia in 2017 from Kenya, enriching her perspective and enabling her to bring diverse insights to Velie Healthcare Services which Jebet is headed as CEO.  She became an Australian citizen on May 22, 2024, in Camden municipality, Greater Western Sydney.
As the CEO of Velie Healthcare Services, a registered NDIS provider, Jebet leads a team dedicated to supporting individuals with disabilities and mental health needs. Her family’s values of compassion, empathy, and resilience, rooted in her cultural background, inspire her work and the inclusive, respectful principles of the organization.
Two significant achievements Jebet made after completing Bachelor of Community Services are:
- Establishing Velie Healthcare Services as a trusted provider, which has been fulfilling due to the positive impact on clients.
- Fostering a supportive, professional team environment, particularly for students from Acknowledge Education, providing growth opportunities.
Advice for aspiring students includes following your passion, gaining practical experience, continuous learning, building a strong network, and being resilient.
Living and studying in Australia offers numerous benefits such as high-quality education, cultural diversity, a high standard of living, work opportunities, natural beauty, research opportunities, and comprehensive student support services. Acknowledge Education helped me settle in through orientation programs, robust student support, cultural integration, language support, practical assistance, and community-building initiatives.
Looking ahead, Jebet aims to expand its services, enhance training and development, increase community outreach, and integrate new technologies to improve service delivery and operational efficiency for Velie Heatlhcare Services.
At 16, Shici moved from China to Australia to pursue her high school education. For five years, she lived with an Australian family, immersing herself in a new culture. This experience allowed her to embrace her true self, feeling understood and accepted like never before.
In Australia, Shici found the freedom to define herself beyond traditional frameworks, while still valuing her family’s unwavering support. Her Buddhist faith’s emphasis on inclusiveness and empathy inspired her to pursue a Bachelor of Community Services.
After completing her degree, Shici became a Child Protection Case Practice Support Worker with the Victorian State Government. Her role involves assisting children and families during visits and identifying potential risks to protect children. She finds immense fulfillment in making a meaningful impact on vulnerable children and families.
Shici aims to advance in her field, aspiring to become a Child Protection Practitioner, then an Advanced Practitioner, and eventually a Senior Practitioner.
Reflecting on her time at Acknowledge Education, Shici fondly remembers the unwavering support from her lecturers. Their patience and guidance were instrumental in her success, providing a strong foundation for her current role.
For aspiring students, Shici advises: Be enthusiastic and sincere about your profession and chosen career. It is incredibly rewarding to use your knowledge and skills to support society and families in need.
Varun grew up in a family that instilled in him the values of resilience and adaptability, essential for success in life. His upbringing also emphasized cultural pride and identity, fostering a strong, close-knit bond with his family.
When Varun began his Bachelor of Community Services, he knew his passion lay in Family Services. Today, he is a dedicated Family Services Case Manager at the Victorian Aboriginal Child Care Agency (VACCA) in Wangaratta, regional Victoria. In this role, Varun works within an integrated family services team to support Aboriginal individuals and families referred to the program. He collaborates closely with clients, key partners, and stakeholders to provide comprehensive support to Aboriginal children and families, addressing their specific needs.
Varun offers two key pieces of advice to aspiring students: build a professional network through LinkedIn, and prioritize self-care. “Helping those in need can be draining and impactful; you must take care of yourself to effectively care for others,” he says.
Varun never forgets the supportive student services at Acknowledge Education that helped him during his studies. The institution assisted him in finding suitable and meaningful placements, which led to the job he loves today. Beyond his educational achievements, Varun serves as a youth representative for the Victorian Multicultural Commission and recently joined the board of a local youth organization, NESAY, aiming to improve the lives of youth in the area.
Varun’s future is bright in a region known for its beautiful natural surroundings, multicultural environment, and abundant work opportunities. His journey is a testament to the power of resilience, community, and dedication.
As a migrant from a culturally and linguistically diverse (CaLD) background, Priyashani understands the profound challenges that youth from migrant and refugee backgrounds face when settling in Australia. Her personal experiences as a person of color have been instrumental in building rapport and fostering deep connections with these youth and their families. This bond allows her to genuinely appreciate their cultural customs, traditions, and nuances. Her background equips her with the empathy and cultural sensitivity necessary to support and advocate for these young individuals effectively.
Driven by a deep sense of purpose, Priyashani chose to work in the Community Services sector. She is currently employed at the Migrant Information Centre (Eastern Melbourne), where her responsibilities include:
- Providing one-on-one support through case management and counseling for disengaged or at-risk youth from migrant and refugee backgrounds.
- Developing and facilitating psychoeducational group programs for youth.
- Developing and delivering cultural competency training in schools and for service providers.
- Conducting risk assessments for young people facing complex challenges such as family violence, abuse, and mental health issues.
- Offering secondary consultations to schools and external service providers on issues faced by CaLD youth.
Priyashani’s unwavering dedication to supporting marginalized communities and her determination to make a meaningful impact on their lives highlight the transformative power of community services. Confident in her choice to change careers, she looks forward to growing professionally and continuing to make a difference.
If you are committed to supporting marginalized communities and aspire to make a meaningful impact, studying community services will unlock numerous career opportunities for you.
Kapil’s success in the hospitality industry is deeply rooted in his upbringing. His culture taught him, “Treat every guest who comes into your house with respect and care to the best of your ability.” This philosophy has been the cornerstone of his professional journey.
Currently, Kapil works as a Restaurant Manager at one of the leading food chains, Hungry Jacks, in Western Australia. His roles and responsibilities include:
- Creating a guest-obsessed culture
- Leading a high-performing team
- Building the brand through effective business planning
- Managing the business to ensure restaurant profitability
Though satisfied with his current role, Kapil lives by the mottos “Focus on your goal” and “Keep moving forward.” His ambition is to open his own franchise of the company he works for, transitioning from an employee to an entrepreneur within the next few years.
Kapil acknowledges that obstacles may arise along the way, but he remains steadfast in his determination. Reflecting on his education, he praises Acknowledge Education for having the best lecturers. Their real-life-based teachings have equipped him with the skills to tackle challenges effectively.
Kapil’s journey highlights the impact of cultural values, dedication, and continuous learning. His story encourages others to pursue their goals with unwavering focus and resilience, demonstrating that with the right mindset and education, success is within reach.
Danuka’s journey began on the outskirts of Colombo, Sri Lanka, in a family deeply rooted in healthcare. With a physiotherapist father and a cardiographer mother, hospitals were a familiar backdrop. Initially, he chose a different path in Business and Finance. After moving to Australia post-school, he worked in retail sales but soon realized his heart wasn’t in it.
The onset of COVID-19 was a turning point. Witnessing the urgent need for healthcare professionals, Danuka made a bold decision to enroll in a Diploma of Nursing. The coursework was challenging, but stepping onto a ward for the first time, he knew he had found his calling. In Australia, he gained access to cutting-edge knowledge and technology, instrumental in his training.
Despite the difficulties of studying during Melbourne’s lockdowns, Danuka appreciated the online support he received. He emphasizes the importance of hands-on experience, advising aspiring nurses to be proactive during placements. “Show your worth, listen, and learn,” he urges.
Now an Enrolled Nurse at Orbost Regional Health, 375 kilometers east of Melbourne, Danuka is recognized as a valuable asset. “Caring for people makes you feel very happy. They are so thankful,” he shares. “In a small community, you get to know the patients and staff, which is wonderful.”
Excited for his next challenge, Danuka is set to begin his Bachelor of Nursing this July, aiming to become a Registered Nurse. Having gained Permanent Residency through a skilled migration program, he plans to stay in Australia indefinitely, committed to advancing his skills and continuing his impactful work.
Danuka’s story is a testament to following one’s passion, adapting to new challenges, and the profound fulfillment that comes from caring for others.
Kirandeep’s time at Acknowledge Education has equipped her with essential skills, including critical thinking, research, and cultural awareness. This foundation has significantly boosted her employability and fostered resilience and independence, crucial for adapting to life in Australia. Career services sharpened her resume and job search skills, while language classes enhanced her communication. Cultural exchange programs and international support provided valuable cross-cultural skills and guidance for living overseas, laying a solid foundation for personal growth and academic success.
Now working as an Endorsed Enrolled Nurse at Sacred Heart Community in Melbourne, Kirandeep administers medications, monitors health, provides wound care, and conducts health assessments.
Raised with values of integrity, hard work, and compassion, Kirandeep’s cultural traditions instilled a strong sense of identity and community. Celebrating festivals and maintaining close-knit relationships taught her respect and resilience, shaping her character.
Kirandeep is proud of achieving job satisfaction and career growth through a well-earned promotion. She also cherishes her role in strengthening family bonds and supporting loved ones, thanks to a supportive husband.
To aspiring nursing students, Kirandeep advises prioritizing passion, dedication, strong communication, and empathy. Self-care, staying updated on medical advancements, and gaining practical experience are crucial.
She aims to pursue advanced certifications, diverse clinical experiences, and leadership roles. Continuous education, professional networking, community health initiatives, and advocacy are her priorities. Ultimately, she aspires to mentor future nurses and influence healthcare policies, becoming a registered nurse.
Australia’s excellent healthcare system, high living standards, and diverse society make it an ideal place for Kirandeep and her family’s future. She is preparing for permanent residency or citizenship, aiming for a fulfilling life in Australia.
Celso’s educational journey has been remarkable since his arrival in 2017, beginning with an English course. Determined to advance his career in Project Engineering, which he started in his home country, he enrolled in the Advanced Diploma of Civil Construction Design at Acknowledge Education.
Choosing his study destination was driven by the need for a safe environment and better living conditions for his young children. Celso believes that the quality of education in Australia is unparalleled, not only for him but also for his children. He chose Sydney, Australia, for this reason.
To secure better opportunities, Celso moved with his family to Queensland, where he now works as a Piping Designer for a mining company. In this role, he is responsible for designing and drafting piping systems and equipment layouts. His guiding motto for success is: “Never give up,” a lesson deeply ingrained from his upbringing.
Celso advises aspiring students to study hard and dive deeper into topics that spark their interest. “It’s easy to just attend class and leave, but the more you study, the more you learn,” he emphasizes.
Despite the length of his educational journey, Celso remains committed to furthering his education. His next goal is to complete a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering.
Celso’s story is a testament to perseverance, the pursuit of excellence, and the transformative power of education.
Ingrid feels she made the perfect choice by selecting Perth as her study destination among her campus options at Acknowledge Education. She fell in love with Perth’s beauty, safety, and vibrant atmosphere. She decided to complete her academic journey with an Advanced Diploma of Civil Construction Design to gain an international perspective on the industry and valuable knowledge of Australian codes and practices.
With a Civil Engineer mother and an Architect father, Ingrid always aspired to a career blending both fields. Drafting became her dynamic bridge between them. After her studies, Ingrid secured a position as a Civil Engineering Draftsperson at GRAF Australia, a plastic manufacturing company in Henderson, WA. GRAF Australia innovates in sustainable water solutions, capturing, treating, and repurposing water.
Ingrid’s role includes:
- Securing product approvals with relevant authorities.
- Advising customers and distributors on installation, maintenance, and various technical information.
- Assisting hydraulic consultants and plumbers.
- Preparing civil engineering designs and schematic drawings.
- Using software tools and expert judgment to ensure compliance with standards and regulations.
- Addressing feedback, writing clarifications, and performing project sizing calculations.
She is proud to have achieved her academic goals and to be contributing to a more sustainable environment through her work. Ingrid advises aspiring students to maximize learning opportunities and invest in personal development. She finds that Australia offers a great work-life balance and aims to connect more with the community in the city she loves.
Ingrid’s journey exemplifies the power of pursuing one’s passion, thriving in new surroundings, and finding balance and satisfaction in both career and personal life.
After completing the course at Acknowledge Education in 2023, Urszula has been working as a Trainee Civil Draftsperson at McDowall Affleck, an Engineering Company, in Midland, WA. Her role involves drawing, planning, and organizing residential and commercial projects, creating detailed engineering plans, explaining and adjusting drawings, and ensuring compliance with Australian standards. Additionally, she conducts site visits, test construction materials, and analyze technical aspects of designs.
Urszula’s family has been instrumental in shaping her values, instilling in her the importance of hard work, perseverance, and integrity. They emphasized education and the belief that dedication leads to success. Her extensive travels before settling in Australia taught her adaptability and resilience.
Two achievements Urszula is proud of include: transforming my life to pursue a new career I had long been interested in and securing a job in this new field while still completing my course, despite having no prior experience.
To aspiring students, she wants to advise maintaining a positive and curious attitude. This mindset makes challenges less daunting and helps overcome obstacles, facilitating continuous development and success in their chosen fields.
Living and studying in Australia has provided numerous benefits, including personal growth, professional development, and a high standard of living. The supportive environment allowed her to start afresh at 37 without facing penalties. Australia’s multicultural society also offers opportunities to interact with diverse backgrounds, fostering cultural understanding and global perspectives.
Urszula aims to transition into a role as a Trainee Civil Designer within a year, with the long-term goal of becoming a Civil Designer.