Alicia Wade

My career has been shaped by a passion for education, wellbeing and helping people feel valued, connected and supported.

Before studying at CQUniversity, I had built a career in early childhood education, coaching and mentoring, while also exploring how gratitude and human connection could support people through everyday challenges. As a single mother balancing work, family and personal growth, I wanted to deepen my understanding of wellbeing and connect my practical experiences with research.

CQUniversity’s Master of Applied Positive Psychology offered that opportunity. I was particularly interested in understanding how people develop a sense of meaning, belonging and connection, and how these principles could be applied in education and community settings.

One of the most meaningful parts of my studies was researching women's experiences of community walking groups that incorporated gratitude reflection. Exploring themes of belonging and connection helped bring together my academic learning and community work, strengthening my understanding of how people experience wellbeing through shared everyday activities.

Today, I work as an Early Childhood Education Professional Consultant, mentoring teachers and supporting education teams to strengthen their practice, relationships and learning environments. My role involves working alongside educators through observation, reflective conversations and practical guidance to support curriculum planning, professional development and positive learning experiences for children.

Alongside this work, I am the founder of The Gratitude Method™, where I develop books, journals, workshops and programmes that translate gratitude and positive psychology into practical tools for everyday life. My CQUniversity studies have strengthened my ability to evaluate wellbeing research, develop evidence-informed resources and approach my work with greater confidence and purpose.

Two experiences I am particularly proud of are speaking at TEDx Youth Maryborough in 2025, where I shared my message that gratitude is more than simply saying thank you, and founding Women's Walk & Talk Hervey Bay.

Creating opportunities for women to connect through walking, conversation and mutual encouragement has been deeply rewarding. I continue to support the group as a founder and mentor, bringing together my interests in community connection, gratitude and wellbeing.

Outside of my professional work, I enjoy writing, walking, hiking and bringing people together. At the heart of everything I do is a desire to make a difference in children's lives by supporting the educators, families and communities around them.

My CQUniversity journey has reinforced the importance of connecting research with real-world experiences and continues to influence how I approach education, mentoring and community wellbeing.