Alesia Henderson has experienced both highs and lows in her personal journey from being a student at Carinity Education Glendyne to now working at the Hervey Bay school as a youth worker.
Alesia's early years were tough. She faced bullying at her original high school, which led to skipping school, suspension, and long absences.
"My mindset was not focused on schoolwork. Even though I was attending, I wasn't going to my classes," Alesia said.
"I was going downhill. I became rebellious, which affected my relationships with others."
Desperate for help, Alesia enrolled at Carinity Education Glendyne in Year 10. It was here that her life began to change. The staff and youth workers at Glendyne provided the support and encouragement she needed.
"They helped me regain my confidence and made me feel accepted. The hands-on learning approach and focus on real-life work skills reignited my passion for learning," Alesia said.
Glendyne Principal, Dale Hansen, recalls Alesia's arrival at the school and the start of her journey to overcome her challenges.
"Alesia was referred to Glendyne with a lot of reports about fighting and disengagement from learning," Dale said.
"She had her share of social barriers, as most of our students do. However, over the three years she was here, she showed continued improvement and graduated in Year 12."
Alesia made strong friendships and overcame her mental health challenges with the help of school youth workers who accompanied her to medical appointments. Her hard work paid off when she graduated in 2019, an achievement that once seemed out of reach.
After completing school, Alesia was inspired by the help she received and the positive changes in her life. Determined to make a difference herself, she decided to work in residential care to support local youth who were struggling.
A chance meeting with Dale Hansen at a local Woolworths proved to be a turning point in Alesia's life.
"When he learned I was interested in giving back to other youth who were struggling, he gave me some guidance on what qualifications I needed to become a youth worker at the school," Alesia said.
Inspired by Dale's words, Alesia enrolled in a Certificate IV in Youth Work and, when a part-time Youth Worker position became available at Glendyne in early-2025, Alesia applied.
With an impressive resume that included having already worked with young people, her TAFE studies, and her training in Therapeutic Crisis Intervention - the model used by Carinity
schools - Alesia had the most experience and qualifications of all those who applied for the role.
Alesia secured the position and has commenced as a youth worker supporting Year 12 students. She continues her studies while working at Glendyne. Known for her dedication and hard work, the school takes pride in the remarkable woman she has become.
"Alesia is well-liked by the team. She fits in well and is consistent in her approach to helping others and understanding the needs of students. She is becoming a great mentor," Dale said.
"I believe that Alesia will become a very integral part of the youth support team at Glendyne."
Alesia loves being back at the school and working with the students.
"I am enjoying getting to know the students and helping them feel comfortable with me. Making connections and helping them with their tasks is very rewarding," she said.
"I believe my personal experiences help me relate to the students and build rapport with them."
Alesia's journey has come full circle, and she now thinks about a future in teaching.
"The environment at Glendyne has inspired me so much. I want to continue helping the kids. That's what I love about working here."
