There are moments in life that remind you about the gift education can be. Watching my daughter Talana graduate this week as a secondary school teacher from Australian Catholic University (ACU) was one of those moments.

As both a parent and someone who has spent more than three decades working in education, it is difficult to put into words just how proud I am of her.

Teaching is not an easy profession to step into. It requires patience, resilience, compassion, creativity, adaptability, and an enormous commitment to helping young people grow. In today’s rapidly changing world, especially in an era being reshaped by generative AI and constant technological change, education has never been more important, and neither have great teachers.

What makes this milestone even more special is that she has chosen this path because it genuinely reflects who she is. Teaching is not simply a job to her. It is a passion. It is about relationships, encouragement, curiosity, and making a difference in the lives of others. Watching her develop that passion over the years and now seeing her officially begin her career at Overnewton College as a Mathematics teacher has been incredibly rewarding.

As a parent, there is something deeply moving about seeing your child find meaningful work that aligns with both their strengths and their values. I know the journey ahead will bring challenges, long days, moments of doubt, and steep learning curves, every teacher experiences those. But I also know it will bring moments of joy, connection, laughter, and the privilege of helping young people discover who they are and what they are capable of becoming.

One of the beautiful things about teaching is that its impact often extends far beyond the classroom walls. Great teachers shape confidence. They inspire creativity. They help students feel seen, supported, and capable. Sometimes a single encouraging conversation or moment of belief from a teacher can stay with a student for life. Talana has already experienced the potential of this truth.

As someone who has spent much of my professional life advocating for creativity, curiosity, and meaningful learning, it fills me with enormous pride to see my daughter now joining this profession at such an important time in history. Schools need passionate educators who care deeply about students and who are willing to continue learning themselves as the world evolves around them.

This graduation is not just the completion of a degree. It is the beginning of a career built on service, empathy, and the desire to make a positive difference.

To my daughter Talana, congratulations! I could not be prouder of the person you have become or more excited to watch the educator you will continue to grow into.

The profession is lucky to have you.

Love you Prec!