For Kayla Harrison, being a leader in her Community isn’t about titles – it’s about showing up, breaking cycles and making real change.

At just 22 years old, Kayla, a proud Yorta Yorta and Gurnai-Kurnai woman, is already making an impact as a Chronic Health Coordinator and Aboriginal Health Practitioner (AHP) at GEGAC Medical.

She’s part of a small but growing number of AHPs in Victoria, and she’s proving to young Mob that a meaningful career in healthcare is within reach.

‘I never thought I’d get to this point,’ she says. ‘I didn’t have it all planned out – things just kind of fell into place. But I kept pushing.’

Kayla’s story is one of determination, passion and staying true to her roots.

Coming full circle

Born and raised in Bairnsdale, Kayla has always felt a deep connection to her Community.

‘I get off a little scot-free,’ she jokes. ‘Everyone knows me! It makes the job feel natural, like I’m not even really working – just looking after my people the way I always have.’

Her career started with a two-month stint as a receptionist at VACCHO, where she quickly realised she wanted to work in an Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (ACCHO).

‘I knew straight away that I wanted to stay in Community,’ she says. ‘Then, when I got to GEGAC, I heard about the traineeships – a mix of working with Mob and learning at the same time. I thought, “That sounds perfect.” And from there, the ball just kept rolling.’

Now, she’s on the frontlines of chronic health, helping Elders navigate the healthcare system, making sure they feel comfortable, and breaking down medical jargon into understandable language.

‘My client base is mostly Elders,’ she explains. ‘They took care of me when I was little, and now I get to take care of them. It’s a full-circle moment.’

That full-circle moment isn’t lost on those who’ve watched her grow.

‘I’ve known Kayla since she was 15 – and she always invests in everyone around her,’ says Yagilaith Djerring Executive Manager Jad David de Busch. ‘She’s the type of person who always makes time, who cares deeply about people. She backs herself and her Community. She knows you have to get the education, go back, and do the work for your people.’

Finding strength in study

The road to becoming an Aboriginal Health Practitioner wasn’t without hurdles. In 2024, just 70 people in Victoria completed the Certificate IV in Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Primary Health Care Practice – many at Yagilaith Djerring – and Kayla is one of them.

‘There were moments when I wanted to quit,’ she admits. ‘Halfway through, I was ready to pull the pin – it was getting too hard. But I had the right support at Yagilaith Djerring, and they pushed me to finish.’

The moment she graduated was surreal. ‘I remember thinking, “I actually did it.” After all the hard work, sweat and tears – I did it.’

Kayla’s trainer, Donna Kutey, felt just as proud.

‘Being away from family and Community is tough for anyone, but for a young person, it’s even more challenging,’ she says. ‘Kayla showed outstanding resilience, strength, and courage throughout her studies. She put in so much effort, and it was incredible to watch her confidence grow.’

Even getting to the graduation ceremony at Albert Park was an achievement. ‘During my course, the travel was the hardest part,’ Kayla laughs. ‘So just getting my licence and driving myself to graduation felt like an accomplishment in itself.’

Her journey proves that while study can be tough, the rewards are worth it. ‘It’s a two-year course, which sounds long, but it flew by.’

Being a role model for young Mob

As a young leader in health, Kayla knows she’s paving the way for others.

‘I want to be that advocate for the young ones coming through. I’ve really pushed myself, and I hope I inspire my younger siblings.’

She makes sure to remind them – and anyone else watching – that it’s possible.

‘They ask me how I did it,’ she says. ‘And I tell them, “It’s not that hard. You do some training, get some work experience – and you can get here too.” Don’t be afraid to take that step.

‘For me, I always knew I wanted something better for myself. Even in primary school, I never missed a day. Then I went to boarding school – far from home – but I kept going. I didn’t know exactly where I was heading, but I knew I had to keep moving forward.’

Kayla’s biggest goals? Giving back to Community and showing others that they can make a difference, too. ‘Some kids think it’s impossible, but I want to show them there’s more out there. You can still be young, have fun, and work in something meaningful.’

Trainer Donna has no doubt Kayla will continue to lead the way.

‘She’s an inspiration,’ Donna says. ‘I’m so proud of her, and I know she’ll take on even more meaningful roles in her Community in the future.’

Jad agrees. ‘She inspires everyone around her to reach for more. More for yourself and more for others.’

Balancing hard work with self-care

It’s no secret that working in Aboriginal health as a Community member can be heavy. Kayla has learned the importance of looking after herself, too.

‘Mindfulness is a big one for me,’ she says. ‘Sometimes I just step outside for a minute and take a break.’

Every Wednesday, she joins GEGAC’s yarning circle: a space to connect, laugh and reset.

‘We sit there, enjoy the fire, have a laugh. It brings you back to ground level,’ she says. ‘We all have struggles, but we’re still here, still laughing.’

She’s also learned when to step back. ‘If I feel overwhelmed, I take a mental health day,’ she says. ‘And I always come back refreshed.’

What’s next?

People tell Kayla she’ll be a CEO one day. She doesn’t doubt it could happen, but right now, her focus is on the work in front of her.

‘A lot of Elders are on my program, and I also get referrals for more complex cases. I can help them manage their health and lifestyle. It’s special work, but it feels natural.’

‘I just know this program benefits Elders so much,’ she says. ‘I couldn’t imagine leaving this to someone I wasn’t sure could take good care of them.’

She’s not in a rush to climb the ladder – she’s exactly where she’s meant to be.

About GEGAC

Established in 1972, Gippsland and East Gippsland Aboriginal Cooperative (GEGAC) is a Community-controlled not-for-profit organisation – and longstanding VACCHO Member.

GEGAC offers a full range of holistic services for Aboriginal people – including medical, housing, Community wellbeing, family support, education, employment and, most importantly, a place of cultural connection for all Aboriginal people.

As an organisation, GEGAC is committed to fighting for equality, recognition and respect to improve the quality of life for all Aboriginal people.