First published 13 May 2024
Giving back to the community and helping others have long been key values for Christopher Thom (“CJ”) – and he is thriving in a career that allows him to do just that.
But if not for the Learning Potential Fund, that opportunity may have never arrived.
After previously assisting vulnerable people through the likes of Wellways/Carer Gateway support and Dignified Movement in-home care, CJ is passionate about his latest community health role as Finance and Business Executive Officer at Queensland Council for LGBTI Health, providing access to gender-affirming care.
He says he would not be where he is without himself having had access to support and services – and his desire to give back extends to leaving a gift to QUT in his Will, to help ensure the next generation has similar opportunity.
“QUT shaped who I am today. I knew I wanted a role with a community focus, to make a difference. The LPF was the difference between being here in my current role, helping others - or not.”
Growing up in Bundaberg, the floods of January 2013 affected CJ’s family dramatically.
“My parents ran a small business which was forced to close … and even when they were able to re-open, it was no longer sustainable due to the substantial loss of trade,” he recalls.
“They were left in an extended period of unemployment, which in turn led to a tough living situation; we had six adults in a three-bedroom home (including CJ’s sister’s partner and niece).”
With his family struggling to make ends meet, CJ worked long hours to help out, as did his siblings (he is one of four). Working 30 hours a week while at high school did not leave much room for study but he dug deep, “working my butt off” to get an OP6.
Sinking feeling: university felt a hopeless dream
An offer to attend university was quickly followed by a “sinking feeling” as CJ realised he had no idea how he could make it work.
“Accessing higher education seemed unattainable. It felt impossible and hopeless.
“I was the first to reach this level (of study) – my family didn’t understand initially what was required, so there was a bit of panic around higher education.”
His career path and options turned dramatically after being offered a Learning Potential Fund scholarship in 2015.
“Suddenly, I had the realisation that it (university study) was viable … it could work. It was a hand up, not a hand-out.”
The money (from an LPF scholarship) helps get you through the door, the sense of community is what keeps you.”
At QUT, CJ completed a Bachelor of Business (Finance) and Bachelor of Behavioural Science (Psychology) but it was far more than just an academic education.
“QUT was a nurturing environment where I could thrive personally and professionally,” he says.
“There was a sense of community and support from peers and faculty members. The money (from an LPF scholarship) helps get you through the door, the sense of community is what keeps you.”
CJ pays special credit to Ray Weekes (QUT Adjunct Professor, Business/Law and chair, The CEO Institute), who “took me under his wing” – particularly through a speaking opportunity to a room full of CEOs as a “timid 18-year-old”, which in turn led to his first professional role as a project officer with CSIRO.
As for his inspiration to leave a bequest – and for others also wanting to “try to leave the world a better place” – CJ wants to ensure future generations of students have access to similar opportunities.
“Through supporting the LPF in a bequest, I hope to empower future students to overcome obstacles and achieve their full potential.
“Giving back to the university that played such a crucial role in my journey is deeply meaningful; and leaving a legacy gift to support education is one of the most impactful ways to make a lasting difference.
“Generosity can transform lives - just as it did for me.”
- The LPF provides critical finances to students whose education aspirations hang in the balance. Since 1998, donors have provided more than 38,000 scholarships to talented students who have been accepted to study at QUT but struggle to pay for necessities such as rent, bills and textbooks.
Join the likes of CJ and create a life-changing legacy by including a gift in your Will. To find out more, contact Heath Mackay, Development Manager (Gifts in Wills) on 07 3138 7525 or heath.mackay@qut.edu.au
