Introduction

For many young people, the transition from school into full-time training is challenging enough. For Jamie Cekanauskas, that journey was compounded by a series of significant health challenges — including Celiac disease, gastritis, emergency surgery, a back injury and an ADHD diagnosis. Yet rather than derailing her ambitions, these challenges strengthened her resolve. With consistent support from Mas National (part of the IntoWork Group), Jamie has persevered through adversity and is now thriving in her Diploma of Early Childhood Education, with clear aspirations to become a Lead Educator.

The Challenge

Jamie’s passion for childcare began early. From the age of eight, she loved caring for her younger brother and later became the go-to babysitter at family events. This passion led her to complete a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education while still in high school.

In April 2024, Jamie commenced her first traineeship. While the transition into full-time work and training felt daunting, it was soon overshadowed by serious health setbacks. During her first year, Jamie was diagnosed with both Celiac disease and gastritis. Working in childcare environments meant frequent exposure to flour-based materials such as Play-Doh, which triggered severe physical reactions. Adjusting to lifelong dietary restrictions at just 18 years old was emotionally and physically taxing.

Despite undergoing surgery and managing ongoing illness, Jamie remained committed to her training. Near the end of her Certificate III, she then sustained a back injury, forcing her to reassess her working environment and employment circumstances.

The Solution

Throughout every stage of her journey, Mas National provided tailored and consistent support. Apprenticeship Consultant Kimberlee Hassan and Mentor Jade Foote worked closely with Jamie to ensure she felt supported, reassured and capable of continuing her training.

Mas National collaborated with Jamie’s Registered Training Organisation (RTO) to arrange assessment flexibility, extensions and training adjustments during periods of illness and recovery. Regular check-ins ensured Jamie never felt alone in navigating her challenges.

After completing her Certificate III, Jamie made the difficult but necessary decision to change employers and commence a Diploma of Early Childhood Education. Importantly, Mas National ensured continuity of support — with Kimberlee handling the new sign-up and Jade resuming mentoring support.

Following Jamie’s ADHD diagnosis, Mas National also identified her eligibility for Disability Australian Apprentice Wage Support (DAAWS). They guided her through the application process, coordinated with her RTO, and helped implement tailored study strategies and additional learning support.

This wraparound approach provided Jamie with reassurance, flexibility and the confidence to continue progressing despite ongoing health challenges.

The Results

Now four months into her Diploma and on track to complete it in February next year, Jamie is thriving. Through adversity, improved medical management, appropriate workplace adjustments, and structured mentoring and learning support, she has rediscovered confidence in both her studies and her future career.

Jamie is performing well in her training and feels supported to manage her health alongside her professional goals. She has clear aspirations to become a Lead Educator and is already considering long-term career pathways, including Centre Director or Early Childhood Teacher.

Reflecting on her journey, Jamie encourages others to persist: “Don’t overthink it, and if you’re passionate about it and you enjoy it, then it’s definitely worth the study and the training.”

Conclusion

Jamie’s story is a powerful example of resilience, determination and the impact of tailored support. Despite facing multiple health and personal challenges that could have derailed her career, Jamie stayed focused on her goals. With Mas National’s flexible, person-centred approach, she was able to adapt, persevere and succeed.

Today, Jamie is not only progressing through her Diploma but is also building a strong foundation for a long-term career in Early Childhood Education — proving that with the right support, passion and perseverance, barriers can become stepping stones rather than roadblocks.