Single mum Jodie nurses healthcare ambition

Study  Careers 

Choosing to study on the Gold Coast was an easy decision for mature aged student and single mum Jodie Gregg. It’s the stepping-stone she needed to fulfil her dream of becoming a nurse.

Jodie, who was recently awarded the TAFE Queensland Gold Coast Indigenous Scholarship for 2018, credits her determination to her grandmother.

“My family is very proud of what I have achieved through my studies. When I told my Nanna that I wanted to become a nurse, she cried,” says Jodie.

“She gave great advice and encouraged me to keep fighting for my goals.

“In return, I have inspired my youngest daughter to complete her schooling and she now plans to attend University to become a doctor.”

While Jodie is originally from Darwin, her family are Kalkadoon people from Mount Isa. She always dreamt of using her knowledge and studies to help women connect, and to educate the community on health issues.

Currently enrolled in a Diploma of Nursing EN at TAFE Queensland Gold Coast, Jodie is one of just 175 mature aged students studying at the institute.

Jodie spent years working at Kalwun Health as a Patient Care Coordinator — assisting patients with chronic diseases by providing education, liaising with general practitioners and allied health workers, seeking funding and organising transport. She then decided to enhance her qualifications by enrolling online in a Certificate II in Primary Health at Booroongen Djugen College.

After finishing the Certificate, she went on to complete the Certificate IV and Diploma in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Primary Health.

“My goal is to provide the best care in my community and continue my studies to become an Enrolled Nurse,” says Jodie.

“As a single mum, the scholarship has helped ease the financial commitment, setting me on a path to achieve my aspirations.

“It’s all about working hard, keeping focused and sharing your knowledge and experiences with others.”