When I first applied for a scholarship at Larita Academy, I was motivated by a simple goal. I wanted to take every chance I could to learn from people with real industry experience. I also wanted to meet other young people who shared my drive.

I walked into the Academy slightly out of my comfort zone, but I quickly realised that being surrounded by people from different backgrounds was one of the best parts. I learned that your background does not decide your future.

"Adverse backgrounds and personal histories don’t mean you can’t succeed, they just mean you will have to work harder."

The most valuable part of Larita Academy was the people. The conversations, the honesty, the willingness to ask difficult questions, and the encouragement to think differently all changed me. Larita taught me that success is personal. "Larita Academy taught me that success is personal and mine is valid." That realisation has stayed with me.

One moment that stands out for me was after a session with David Stevenson, CEO of the NBL. I asked him what to do if you are given an opportunity that feels unfamiliar or if you don’t feel ready. What I took away was that you should still take the opportunity. You are not expected to do everything alone. Support is normal. And sometimes the things that feel slightly uncomfortable are exactly the things that help you grow.

Since graduating, I’ve noticed how much Larita has shaped my everyday life. Networking and small talk in professional or semi-professional settings used to make me nervous. Now, I use those skills with ease. I joined the Traralgon Rotary Satellite Group and helped run a fundraiser for Days For Girls in Papua New Guinea. I’m halfway through my Certificate IV in Community Services. I’ve learned to speak confidently with people who have decades of experience, and I no longer feel like I don’t belong in those spaces.

"Larita gave me more than skills. It gave me confidence in who I am becoming."

I now see my career as a journey, something that will grow and shift as I do. I’ve learned that I thrive when there is structure and clear expectations. I’ve also learned that success can look different from where you started. And that’s something to embrace, not fear.

If you are thinking about applying to Larita Academy, my advice is: go for it. If you don’t have corporate role models in your daily life but want to learn from people who take your goals seriously, this program is a rare opportunity.

This was the first program I have ever been part of that spoke seriously about building a career in a way that felt real and achievable. At Larita Academy, young people’s drive for success is taken seriously, and we are given the tools to take hold of our futures.

My journey is just beginning, but thanks to Larita, I know I am on the right path.

Note: Harlequin is now a member of Larita Academy’s Alumni Advisory Group, continuing to shape the future of the program alongside other graduates.