A total of 70 young people graduated from Carinity Education schools during 2025, amassing 174 certificates and qualifications.
While we are happy to see the success of all our graduates, the stories of Kailey and Maddi highlight the transformation that occurs within our Carinity schools.
Kailey's artistic ambitions
When Kailey first enrolled at Carinity Education Southside, she wasn't sure of her future or where her strengths lay. But the support of her teachers and youth workers soon had her beginning to discover her talents and confidence.
"Before coming to this school, I struggled with knowing what path I wanted to take for my future. With the endless encouragement from Carinity, I am now confident I want to pursue my art," she said.
"With the help of Carinity, I have sold two pieces of my art. Since coming here, I have learnt the importance of education; I have studied harder than ever and my grades show it. I have matured as a person and learnt the importance of kindness and gratitude."
Kailey's youth workers, Mackenzie Dalgliesh and Steph Fuentes, say her dedication quickly became apparent once she realised the path she wanted to follow.
"What stands out most to me about Kailey's journey is watching her grow her emotional resilience.
Kailey has been through many hardships that could have easily dimmed her light. Instead, she turned pain into passion and a strong determination to achieve and do hard things," Mackenzie said.
Kailey values Southside's inclusive community and constant guidance.
"The thing I love most about this school is the constant encouragement from youth workers and teachers alike. I have never met such a kind and generous group of people, and I truly appreciate it.
"They have seen my good times and bad times and stuck by me. They are a big part of my personal growth," she said.
Carinity Education Southside has also helped her pursue her passion through real-world opportunities.
"I am most excited to pursue my art career and see where it leads me. Southside has offered me countless pathways to showcase my art and have supported me through it all," she said.
Maddi's journey to purpose
Maddi never imagined she'd be proudly graduating Year 12. Just a few years ago, school felt like a place she didn't belong.
"I hated school and my attendance was very poor. My grades were lower than they should have been, and I did not want to put in any extra effort. I was going to leave at the start of Year 10," Maddi said.
But everything changed when Maddi joined Carinity Education Gladstone, a place where she felt seen, accepted, and safe. Slowly, her outlook shifted.
"My attitude towards school and the efforts that I put in have changed. I have matured and have obtained part-time employment, and I put in extra effort to ensure my grades are good," she said.
The difference wasn't just in the classroom, it was in the culture. Maddi found a community that accepted her, encouraged her, and helped her believe in herself.
"Support is provided to us for all aspects of school, both in and out of class. There are a lot more opportunities for us and we feel included and feel like real people, not just a number," she said.
One teacher, in particular, made a lasting impact.
"My teacher, Karen Larose, provided me with support and guidance and pushed me to be successful in my studies. Without Karen and the school's help, I would not have achieved what I have today," Maddi said.
Now, Maddi is looking ahead with purpose and passion. She's preparing to study Youth Justice, driven by a desire to help others who've faced similar challenges.
"I am excited to be able to continue my studies next year with courses in Youth Justice work because I want to help those who are in situations like I was a few years ago," she said.
"The school has guided me to develop and plan my personal career path through fostering an environment that I was comfortable in."
Read the stories of fellow 2025 Carinity Education graduates, Tyla and Zahlia.
