Jahnesta finds what she’s looking for with CQU’s Indigenous Primary Health Care course

CQUniversity’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Primary Health Care course was not only what Jahnesta Noter was looking for to upskill, but also a positive and unexpected hands-on experience that helped secure her a role with NSW Health.

Jahnesta, who is a descendant from the Bundjalung Nation, more specifically the Minjungbal people, has encouraged other First Nations peoples to pursue what they’re looking for in their career or education aspirations.

“I have always had a passion for the health and wellbeing of all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. I was lucky enough to gain employment with an Aboriginal Medical Service (AMS) as an administration support officer,” she said.

“Throughout my time in this role, I wanted to expand my knowledge and skillset and have that clinical and cultural connection with mob from the area.”

It was during her time with AMS that Jahnesta saw a position advertised for a Trainee Aboriginal Health Worker and ultimately secured the traineeship.

“As part of successfully obtaining the traineeship, I was required to undertake a Certificate IV in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Primary Health Care study with CQU,” she said.

“The Certificate IV in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Primary Health Care what I was looking for, although not what I expected.

“The ‘hands on’ practical blocks I got to attend were furthermore eye opening, and solidified for me that, at that point in time, it was what I needed to advance my knowledge and experience to get me where I am today.

“It took me a while to get my head around the ‘working and studying full-time mindset’, but with the uplifting support from my teacher Recheal Daley, I was able to strive through the training and study, and successfully gain my certificate. I would like to really thank Recheal for everything she did and how understanding she was throughout my time studying with CQU.”

Jahnesta said she is now working for NSW Health as an Aboriginal Mental Health Clinician – while studying full-time.

“The training I received from CQU has helped me majorly with my new role as I am currently studying a “Bachelor Degree of Health Science” and working fulltime, and thankfully I have the previous experience to do so,” she said.

She encouraged anyone interested in Indigenous Health to consider CQU’s Certificate IV in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Primary Health Care course.

“I would highly recommend it; we are always learning (sometimes unintentionally) and it’s a bonus when our knowledge and experiences can help motivate our people to do and be better,” she said.

“The opportunities are endless and lead to amazing career pathways. Knowledge is power.”