Jacquelyn scoops Aboriginal Student of the Year award

Kununurra mental health worker Jacquelyn McCoy has been named Aboriginal Student of the Year at the Central Regional TAFE Awards, after completing her Diploma of Counselling – part of a professional development opportunity offered by WA Country Health Service through TAFE.

The partnership offers Aboriginal staff at WA Country Health Service the opportunity to complete a Certificate IV in Mental Health or Diploma of Counselling while continuing to work.

Jacquelyn said she was incredibly grateful for the opportunity.

“Being a young mother, I didn’t complete high school; I worked to provide for my family,” she said.

“I was shocked and honoured to be nominated for Aboriginal Student of the Year, and to go on to win the award – it didn’t seem real.”

Jacquelyn joined WA Country Health Service in 2022 as a Clerical Officer with the Kimberley Mental Health and Drug Service at Halls Creek.

She then took on a part-time role as an Aboriginal Mental Health Worker, completing her Certificate IV in 2023 with support from the WACHS Aboriginal Entry Level Employment Program.

In 2024, Jacquelyn enrolled in the Diploma of Counselling which she completed in April this year.

She now works with the Kimberley Community Alcohol and Drug Service (KCADS) as the East Kimberley Prevention Services Officer.

Executive Director Kimberley Lisa Smith said Jacquelyn’s award win is well-deserved recognition for the support she’s provided to country communities.

“We’re proud to support students like Jacquelyn who are committed to improving the health and wellbeing of the communities they live and work in.

“Her award win is a direct reflection of her efforts both at TAFE and her learning and development on-the-ground in our Kimberley services,” she added.

Ms Smith said it is important to support professional development for staff and to strengthen our workforce.

“By offering alternative pathways and giving students the opportunity to learn while they work, we’re able to support them to get a foot in the door and achieve their career goals.

“It’s also another important step we’re taking in growing our own workforce.”

Jacquelyn is now enjoying a well-earned break from schooling but hopes to study mental health and psychology at university in the future.