Student Spotlight: Taylah Richardson

Wednesday, 9 September 2026

Studying at TAFE could be born from many reasons. Whether it's for your personal gain or career progression, there's space for you to be empowered here. Take it from one of our lovely students, Taylah Richardson, who decided to study Leadership & Management as she wanted to have a better understanding of how to lead and support a team while learning how to stay sharp under pressure. Check out our Q&A session with her below.

1. What motivated you to enrol in the Leadership and Management course?

Undertaking this course was more for personal development. I had to because I was taking more responsibility at work, like having to lead the team. I wanted to not only have more understanding on how to lead and support the team but also how I can manage my own stressors.

 

2. What does good leadership look like for you?

Good leadership to me is someone who supports the team, provides constant feedback and takes accountability. A good leader is someone who listens and takes action on feedback they receive.

 

3. Which part of the course has had the biggest impact on you? 

Seeing how supportive everyone was, not only in class but even with the people I work with. I want to mention my boss who was always willing to lend me a hand if I had assessments I needed help with or questions I needed answered.

 

4. What skill/s have you learned in class that you didn't expect you would adapt when you started?

I learned how to teach and connect with someone, whether they be a visual learner or someone who needs written instructions. This has helped me adapt in the way I train new staff and have a good understanding of how they work so I can help them be successful.

 

5. How has your confidence as a leader evolved over time?

Throughout the year, I felt both my personal and workplace confidence grow. I learned what my own boundaries are and how to support my team better. Not only was I able to manage my stress during busy periods better but I also saw that my colleagues were noticing a positive change in the way I carry myself and duties as well.

 

6. What has been the most challenging part of the course and how did you overcome it?

There were parts in class that we had to roleplay scenarios, thinking on the spot and figuring out solutions to resolve the situation. However, my classmates and teachers were always there to support and help navigate me through the overthinking process. 

 

7. How has studying the course supported your career goals?

I have been in the hospitality sector since I was 16, almost 14 years now and I never thought I had what it took to become a manager. Six months into the course I was offered a position at work as Team Lead as we had some managers moving and going on leave. During my studies, I was understanding more about how this course really helped my confidence in the workplace, how other staff saw this and how capable I was to be able to step up and take this leap. 

---

About Taylah

She's been working in hospitality for 14 years now. She decided to study a Leadership & Management course to develop her skills as she continues to grow and improve within the field she has chosen. In her downtime, she enjoys going to concerts, traveling, and watching TV shows like 9-1-1 and Grey's Anatomy.