Finn’s passion for film comes into focus with TAFE Queensland

Inspired at 12 years old by the film Donnie Darko, they knew then that filmmaking was her calling.

Eight years later, that passion has grown into a promising career, thanks largely to TAFE Queensland's digital screen and media courses.

Finn's journey began with the TAFE at School program, where she completed a Certificate III in Screen and Media (CUA31020) in grade nine.

This experience was a turning point, igniting her belief that she could genuinely do something remarkable. “I finally felt like I could do something,” Finn recalled.

This spark led them to drop out of high school at 15 years old to pursue a Diploma of Screen and Media. However, the pandemic and other challenges disrupted her studies, which saw her withdraw from the course, yet her passion for film remained strong.

After a few years of exploring different paths, Finn made the courageous decision to re-enrol in the diploma with TAFE Queensland.

Despite fears of failing, Finn was determined to finish what she had started, enrolling in the Diploma of Screen and Media (Directing) (CUA51020). With the incredible support of TAFE Queensland’s educators and faculty, she completed their diploma and thrived.

“I was blessed to have an amazing group of people all around me— friends, family, teachers and fellow classmates - it was a gift to be in a class full of such great peers,” she said.

The connections she made and the collaborative projects she worked on with her classmates are memories she will cherish for years.

Finn's time at TAFE Queensland was filled with hands-on learning, creative exploration, and unforgettable experiences.

From working on group projects to creating her own short film, which was screened in a cinema, every step of the journey reaffirmed Finn’s belief that film is what she was born to do.

“Nothing makes me feel the way film does,” Finn shares, and it’s clear that the industry-standard facilities and equipment at TAFE Queensland’s Mt Gravatt campus provided the perfect learning environment for her to nurture her innate passion.

Finn's educational journey was also supported by Fee-Free TAFE funding, which is part of the Queensland Government's Good People. Good Jobs: Queensland Workforce Strategy 2022–2032.

This initiative aims to connect, educate, and attract talent to meet the state’s workforce needs and drive economic growth.

With around 37,000 Fee-Free TAFE and vocational education and training places available in 2024, the program allows Queenslanders to gain essential skills for current and future job markets at little or no cost.

Reflecting on her journey, Finn expresses immense gratitude for the patience and understanding shown by their TAFE Queensland teachers.

“My teachers are my mentors, but also like friends to me - I look up to them so much,” she said.

The mentorship and support she received played a pivotal role in helping her gain the skills and confidence needed to pursue a fulfilling career in film.

Finn also acknowledges the unwavering support from their mum, who encouraged her every step of the way.

As someone who identifies as non-binary, a lesbian, and lives with mental disabilities, Finn takes great pride in her achievements and feels empowered by how far she’s come and what she’s achieved.

Finn's story is a powerful reminder that anyone can overcome obstacles to achieve their dreams with determination, the right support, and a nurturing learning environment like TAFE Queensland.

Her journey is just beginning, and with the skills, knowledge, and passion she’s honed through TAFE Queensland, she’s excited to continue building a career in film.

Finn’s success is a personal victory and a celebration of inclusivity and the diverse talents that TAFE Queensland nurtures.

Her story is an inspiration to anyone who has ever doubted their abilities, proving that with the right support, you can turn your passion into a rewarding career.