Blake Debrincat began an enrolled nurse course 15 years ago when he was a teenager, but had to drop out and found work as a cook in restaurants.
He has now commenced his dream career, working at an aged care community in Boonah, after completing a fee-free certificate course run by Carinity.
Graduates who recently completed studies for a Certificate III in Individual Support, held at Carinity Illoura in Beaudesert and Carinity Fassifern Community Centre in Boonah, now work in the fields of aged care and disability support.
The nationally recognised course, funded by the Queensland Government through its Skilling Queenslanders for Work initiative, enabled Sarah-Jane McCartney to secure employment as a disability support worker.
"My mum has a disability and she ended up getting support workers last year. Not having any work, a lot of her carers suggested I become a support worker," Sarah-Jane said.
"It's not something I hadn't really thought about doing before … but this is one of the best jobs I've ever had.
"The mixture and the diversity of the job is really cool, the people are very inspiring. It's a very passionate job with a lot of dedication and hard work required for this particular field. It's a privilege."
Having "always had a passion for helping people", Georgia Scott enrolled in the "amazing" course at the most opportune time.
"I was going through some financial hardship so when I saw the course was free, I thought it was the perfect opportunity," she said.
"I realised this would be my chance to help older people a bit more and give them the love and support that they need."
The 21-year-old now works in a Boonah aged care home.
"I love it. You couldn't ask for a better job. There are a lot of challenges but there is never a dull shift. It's the most blessed role you could ever have," Georgia said.
The 19-week part-time course, delivered by registered training organisation Horizion2, is designed for adults such as recent school leavers and mature-age students.
Carinity Illoura Learning Centre Coordinator, Ruth Bishop, said the course included vocational placement and practical work experience for students, who are aged between 21 and 59 years.
"They have done an exceptional job, and I am proud of what they have accomplished and how far they have come," Ruth said.
"I have no doubt that they will be an asset to the disability and aged care industry, where they will have the opportunity to show their passion, commonsense and can-do attitudes."
Carinity Youth & Families Program Coordinator, Diana Clift, said the graduates showed an "unwavering commitment to helping others live their best lives".
She added the graduates were in a position "to create positive, lasting change" in the community, by "lifting others up and providing dignity and care to those who need it most".
"This qualification is not just a testament to their skills and knowledge, but to their commitment to making a real difference in the lives of others," Diana said.
"Their role as an individual support worker is one of profound importance, and the lessons they learned here will carry with them throughout their careers."
