Wiradjuri woman is TAFE’s student of 2017

Candace completed the Diploma of Aboriginal Practice for Professional and Community Practice and was kept on her toes by her four children and two foster children.

Mrs Cord and her husband welcomed their newborn during the course and one of their foster children was also a newborn.

A spokesperson for Young TAFE said Candace was an inspiration to staff and fellow students alike.

“Candace was a leader in her class group. She led the submission of assessments, in academic standard, in participation and support for other students,” the spokesperson said. 

“She worked with local Aboriginal Community applying learning to practice to find solutions to the issues of maintaining the culture and breaking down barriers.

“Candace was always a willing participant in any activity and she was happy to share her knowledge and experience with the class.”

Mrs Cord said Aboriginal culture is all about taking care of one another and the land.

“I think a disconnection with culture is a real problem experienced by many Aboriginal people today, and I would like to see more opportunities to engage in cultural activities and practices, to build on these connections,” she said.

“I have a personal desire to learn as much about my culture as possible; it is what spurred me into doing the Diploma.

Mrs Cord said her family encouraged her studies every step of the way.

“As a parent and carer, finding the time to study was difficult, but I found that breaking my workload down into smaller- more easily achievable goals, worked best for me,” she said.

“I have an incredibly supportive family who helped me with the kids and wonderful teachers who dedicated their time and kept me focused.

“I think determination was definitely a contributing factor which got me through my study; I would describe myself as a determined person.

“I'd like to personally thank my teachers Kym Steele, Letetia Harris and Aunty Gail Clark, who motivated and inspired me throughout my study. Aunty Gail continues to guide me through her knowledge and has been a wonderful mentor in both life and study. Many people dedicated their time toward my community research which I am very thankful for, and I feel incredibly lucky to  have such strong family support. I hope in the future I am able to provide other diploma students with similar support and commitment which I have been provided with during my own learning.”