Nadine Bowen
After four decades working in the disability services sector, Nadine brought her expertise to the classroom, teaching the Certificate IV in Disability Support. Her journey from industry manager to a dedicated teacher showcases her passion for mentorship.
Nadine believes students thrive when they feel safe and free from judgment. She encourages them to contribute and aims to build a supportive classroom collaboratively with them. This includes incorporating music into her classroom to ensure a relaxed, high-engagement atmosphere.
Nadine recognises the needs of diverse learners, recently providing bespoke support to two deaf students in her class. Nadine went above and beyond to secure placements for these deaf students, advocating for their learning journey and for stronger industry acceptance of diversity.
Nadine regularly volunteers to help others and conduct placement visits. She stepped into an Education Manager role during a critical period, wearing two hats: as leader and teacher. She also led the Disability Support Industry Advisory Group, strengthening the connection between education and industry. Nadine’s leadership fosters a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement.
In the future, Nadine aims to influence course design to attract enrolments and further her mentoring skills.
“It’s about being able to positively impact people with disabilities and encourage my students to do the same,” she says.
Outside the workplace, Nadine’s commitment continues through her volunteer work with disability programs.
Nadine is Chisholm’s 2026 Educator of the Year.