For Heidi Knowles, education isn’t just about gaining skills – it’s about proving what’s possible.

A proud Yorta Yorta woman, a mother of six, and the primary caregiver for her granddaughter, Heidi juggles life with grit, humour and determination.

‘I’m honest, I’m hard-working and I don’t stop,’ she says with a laugh.

Her journey from addiction and loss to leadership and success is a testament to her strength – and her belief that it’s never too late to turn things around.

From rock bottom to rebuilding

In 2013, Heidi hit her lowest point. She was working, had a car, and was planning to buy her first home, but behind the scenes, life was crumbling.

A toxic relationship and her eldest son’s incarceration left her vulnerable, and a single moment of curiosity set her on a dangerous path.

However, it was the loss of her children that became a turning point. ‘That broke me,’ she says. ‘But it also woke me up. I knew I had to rebuild for them.’

Learning, leading and laugh

Rebuilding wasn’t easy, but Heidi embraced the challenge with her trademark determination. In 2018, she enrolled in a Certificate IV in Community Services at the Academy of Sport, Health and Education (ASHE) – a decision that reconnected her with her Culture and sparked a passion for education.

‘Every step forward has been about learning and growing,’ she says. ‘I’ve gone from student to teacher to Manager of Operations and Student Success at ASHE – all while raising my family and caring for my granddaughter.’

Heidi credits her success to her ability to stay grounded and keep her sense of humour. ‘Honestly, I don’t get much time to look after myself,’ she jokes. ‘But watching Home and Away is my me-time. My kids know not to disturb me when it’s on!’

Her commitment to her community shines through in everything she does. ‘I go out and talk to Mob about what’s needed,’ she explains. ‘Where are the jobs? What’s missing? It’s about building opportunities for our people.’

A safe space to thrive

Heidi’s connection to VACCHO’s Yagilaith Djerring has been pivotal in her journey. A recent graduate of the Diploma of Leadership and Management (BSB50420), she’s gained the confidence to excel while staying connected to her roots.

‘Studying with Yagilaith Djerring has been one of the best experiences of my life,’ she says. ‘Peter, my trainer, was incredible. He never made us feel small. If we didn’t understand something, he’d explain it in our lingo, making it feel like he was one of us.’

And Peter feels just as positive. ‘During the course, Heidi’s contributions were outstanding. Her workplace anecdotes and lived experiences related so well to our discussion topics – and informed and energised her fellow students,’ he says.

‘Her clarity on what’s important when demonstrating effective leadership was nothing short of inspirational.’

Heidi adds that studying on Country at Rumbalara Aboriginal Co-operative in Shepparton was just as important. ‘Being home on Country gave me strength. It’s grounding – it reminds you of where you come from and why you’re doing what you’re doing.’

Leading by example

For Heidi, leadership isn’t about titles – it’s about creating opportunities and inspiring others to believe in themselves.

‘I’ve been the first in my family to do a lot of things,’ she says. ‘That comes with responsibility, but it also shows others what’s possible. If I can do it, so can they.’

Her lived experience, including overcoming addiction, gives her a unique ability to connect with others.

‘There’s no better person to help than someone who’s been there,’ she explains. ‘When I was struggling, I couldn’t take advice from someone who’d just read it in a book. I needed someone who understood – and now I can be that person for others.’

And for anyone considering study, Heidi’s advice is simple: ‘Don’t be afraid to believe in yourself. If you want it, go for it – and don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.’

She also emphasises the importance of connecting with Community. ‘Talk to people, find out what’s needed, and start from there,’ she says. ‘Education isn’t just about getting a piece of paper – it’s about opening doors for yourself and others.’

Always moving forward

Heidi’s journey is far from over. She’s currently completing a Diploma in Alcohol and Other Drugs/Mental Health at ASHE and considering even more study in the future.

‘Everything I do now is for my babies, my granddaughter, and my Community,’ she says. ‘I grab every opportunity with both hands because I want to show others that it’s possible to come back from anything.’

Her philosophy is simple but powerful: ‘There’s no such thing as ‘can’t.’ If I can do it, you can do it.’