Jamie eager to enhance Indigenous education as a CQU trainee

16 April 2024
Image of a young Indigenous woman smiling at the camera with a waterfall backdrop
CQU trainee Jamie Ingram

By Greg Chapman

Jamie Ingram is fully embracing the opportunity to help enhance Indigenous education and representation as a business administration trainee with CQUniversity’s Indigenous Student Engagement team.

Jamie is one of seven trainees to join CQU this year, and she is already relishing the pathways that have opened for her. 

She is also a proud Kamilaroi woman, who carries her ancestry throughout her daily life.

“My Kamilaroi ancestry is not just a part of my history, it's a vibrant thread in the tapestry of my identity, colouring my perspective and grounding me in values passed down through generations. It's a heritage I carry with pride, a living legacy I am determined to honour in both word and deed,” Jamie said.

Jamie said being accepted into the traineeship was an “incredible moment.”

“It truly felt like a dream come true. The sense of joy and accomplishment I felt was indescribable; it was as if all my hard work and determination had paid off in the best possible way,” she said.

“My motivation for applying for this traineeship stems from my alignment with CQU’s values, particularly its commitment to inclusivity and support for the Indigenous community. I am eager to contribute my skills and passion to furthering the University’s mission and making a difference in the lives of Indigenous students and their communities.

“As an Indigenous person, I deeply resonate with these values and seeing CQU as an institution that not only talks the talk but walks the walk when it comes to supporting Indigenous students and communities.

“I see this traineeship as an opportunity not only to further my education and skills in business administration but also to contribute to the advancement of Indigenous education and representation within the University and beyond.

“I am passionate about making a positive impact in my community, and I believe that by participating in this traineeship, I can play a meaningful role in fostering greater access to education and opportunities for Indigenous students. I am excited about the prospect of being part of a team that is dedicated to creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for all students, regardless of their background.”


An image of six young women in a group, CQU's new trainees for 2024
Six of the newly appointed trainees at CQU (L-R) Lizzie Newby, Reannan Campbell, Jamie Ingram, Joelie Cutler, Georgia Burgess and Jakkiah Colthup

Jamie added that her goal in the traineeship was to continue growing personally and professionally within CQU.

“Looking ahead, I envision further developing my skills and knowledge, possibly exploring additional educational opportunities, and actively contributing to CQUniversity's commitment to inclusivity, diversity and community engagement. Ultimately, I aim to play a significant role in the continued success and progress of CQUniversity,” she said.

All participants commenced their 12-month traineeship in March and will be supported by CQU and the Busy at Work program to complete their Certificate III in Business Administration.