“I always loved children and helping people, so I became a registered nurse,” Tash said. ““After graduating with a Bachelor of Nursing and completing a post graduate certificate in paediatrics and specialising in emergency medicine, I worked at a large children’s hospital for five years. But last year, when COVID-19 hit, several things happened that made me question my career.”

“After growing up with bad skin and trying different medicines, I finally went to a naturopath who changed my diet and helped me heal my skin. At the same time, I started to understand more about the toxins in everyday products, and at work, I felt unsettled. We were treating children with cancer and chronic diseases with chemotherapy and antibiotics, but not giving them or their parents advice about looking after their overall health. Then, when my aunt was diagnosed with breast cancer, I saw how herbs complemented her treatment.”

Realising that she wanted to empower people to take control of their health, Tash quit her job, moved to the Gold Coast, and enrolled in naturopathy at Endeavour.

“It was a big decision,” Tash said. “But I don’t regret it. I’m enjoying what I do, and I have complete faith that I’m on the right path. I would encourage anyone stuck or fearful of making a change to go with their values.”

Tash is studying naturopathy full-time and received some recognition of prior learning from her nursing degree. “If I hadn’t done science before, I think biology would be hard. But there’s so much help available at Endeavour, and it’s easy to connect with your lecturers when you have a question.”

Alongside her studies, Tash has launched a small business, Adorn Aromatherapy Jewellery. She was handcrafting jewellery when she fell in love with essential oils and aromatherapy.

“Someone gave me a stainless-steel necklace that diffused essential oils. I loved the concept, but it was a chunky piece. So, I decided to design a line of refined, contemporary pieces that incorporate oils to relieve stress and anxiety. Now, I’m selling my jewellery online, at the markets, and in local shops. The business is a good balance to my studies.”

Tash dreams one day of running her own naturopathy business, working with children and their families, and offering a service that includes personalised programs and home visits. Her Dad has already proudly started calling her “Dr Tash.”