My name is Jaharn, and I’m a proud Ngunnawal and Yuin man with strong family connections to Yass and the Hollywood Mission, as well as Jervis Bay and the Wreck Bay Mission.

Back in Year 10 I didn’t have much of a sense of who I was or what pathways I wanted to pursue in my Senior schooling. I knew I wanted to help Mob and had an interest in health, but I couldn’t see a clear pathway forward. At the same time, I was dealing with personal issues and struggling with my mental health.

Everything began to shift when I received an email from my school’s careers officer about IAHA Group Training and what they offered for school-based traineeships.  At first, I wasn’t sure if it was for me but I decided to step out of my comfort zone and attend an information session. After attending the information session it gave me direction, a sense of community, and belonging—something I hadn’t felt before.

Since then, my journey in my Senior schooling through the IAHA National Academy Program (ACT Program) completing my school-based traineeship has been life-changing.

In 2024, I completed my Certificate III in Allied Health Assistance through a collaboration with IAHA Group Training, Canberra Institute of Technology and Indigenous Allied Health Australia. I became the first in my family to complete Year 12 and complete a qualification. That moment was more than just a personal achievement; it showed my younger siblings and cousins that it’s possible.

After Year 12 I successfully completed a Certificate III in Community Services and now enrolled in a Certificate IV in Alcohol and Other Drugs and Community Services. Every achievement has helped me grow in my skills, confidence and understanding of what I want for my future. Since being introduced to the networks and IAHA family I’ve grown more than I ever thought possible, not just academically, but in how I see and value myself.

When I first joined the IAHA Academy Program I didn’t know how I was going to manage juggling Year 11 and 12 as well as VET however with the continued support from Academy staff they helped me manage my time better. I developed healthy habits in my time management learned aware of the Deadly support around me. The IAHA National Academy staff always made sure I wasn’t alone, and they understood the challenges young people faced and provided the trainees the tools and encouragement we needed. Having people who believed in me made all the difference.

I currently work as a trainee in Indigenous Allied Health membership team. I am incredibly thankful to IAHA for this opportunity in working alongside inspiring people like Rachel and Dylan. The IAHA staff has helped me build professional skills in communication, teamwork, and leadership. Working for a National Indigenous health organisation has greatly deepened my understanding of how IAHA supports mob across the country.

A highlight so far in 2025 is joining the IAHA High School to Deadly Careers program (IAHA HS2DC) with the IAHA membership team. The IAHA HS2DC trip in North-West NSW gave me an opportunity in visiting remote schools and connecting with young mob out there is something I’ll never forget. The IAHA HS2DC program reminded me that community is at the heart of everything I do.

Along the way, I’ve been honoured to receive recognition for my efforts. In 2024, I was awarded the Per Ardua Ad Astra Award, which means “through struggle to the stars.” It recognises students who’ve shown resilience, determination, and commitment in the face of challenges.

I am recipient of the 2025 ACT Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student of the Year by Skills Canberra. This award is a reflection in how far I can continue in pursuing a great career working in community and health. I am truly grateful for all the support and people who believed in me.