Ruby’s Story

Meet Ruby, a remarkable journalism student, volunteer, and advocate with solid ambitions for the future. Their journey is an inspiring one, demonstrating the ways education and advocacy can help break down barriers and allow care experienced people to dream big. 

Educational Pathway 

Ruby’s tertiary education journey began with VCAL at GOTAFE. After achieving this, they decided to enrol in a Certificate IV in Professional Writing and Editing at Federation University. With the turbulence of life, Ruby soon realised this course was not the right fit for them and was unable to complete the certificate. Despite this setback, Ruby continued to be driven by an insatiable thirst for knowledge and, when life allowed, they pursued a Diploma of Communications at Deakin University, which they graduated from in early 2023. They are currently studying a Bachelor of Communications, majoring in journalism, and finding this incredibly fulfilling.  

Overcoming Barriers

Ruby’s years throughout primary and high school were marked by disruption and constant movement. They attended numerous schools throughout this period, including a year of homeschooling in grade nine. Year ten brought with it some disheartening encounters with teaching staff who questioned Ruby’s abilities and undermined their hard work. Thus, Ruby’s education journey was often fuelled by the expectations of others - some expecting a great deal from them and others anticipating Ruby’s failure. Despite this, they persevered and turned these competing expectations into determination to build a brighter future. 

Support and Inspiration

Over these last few years, Ruby has forged strong friendships and has found a sense of community and belonging in Melbourne. Ruby reflects on how their formative years have become a powerful driver for their future: “I’m doing it for the young person who grew up not knowing where they were or who they wanted to be.” 

Though Ruby sometimes struggled to believe in themself, they were able to find inspiration in the wonderful people who encouraged them to keep going. Over time, this inspiration evolved into something deeper - a strong ambition to make a positive difference for themselves, and other out-of-home-care young people. Ruby has worked tirelessly to make an impact through their education, volunteer work, and advocacy.

The Road Ahead

Ruby’s often tumultuous journey has led them to a profound commitment to empowering other care experienced young people. They now share this incredible inspiration with their younger siblings who are also growing up in care. Ruby hopes that their journey has shown their siblings that the potential to achieve is limitless. 

Looking forward, Ruby sees a future teeming with possibility. Their studies have fed their passion for storytelling and advocacy, and they hope to continue using their platform to amplify the voices of other care experienced people and help them recognise their own boundless potential.