Collective advocacy has been a cornerstone of Calum Neish’s life at university and is something that the recipient of the 2023 APA Board of Directors Student Prize vows to continue with as he prepares to embark as a graduate physiotherapist.

‘Diversity is a very important factor in thriving communities and it is essential that we listen to the voices around us,’ Calum says.

‘Through my experiences at university, I have seen the important role that advocacy can play in creating positive change for equitable health outcomes across communities.’

He credits the experiences gained through receiving the prestigious national prize with helping to solidify career goals in areas that interest him.

‘I’m understanding how physiotherapy can help amplify voices, how we can support community through bringing people together and the importance of leadership to help make that happen in an equitable way.’

The prize recognises an APA student member who has demonstrated leadership capacity through their contribution to the profession and the community.

Winning the prize meant that the fourth-year University of Queensland (UQ) student took on the role of student representative on the APA’s National Advisory Council, a position that helps to steer policy and promotes student voices. 

The experience has also given Calum a deeper understanding of his chosen profession.

‘What an opportunity it is. I always thought it was something that I would love to do. 

Final-year student Calum Neish.

'Reading about previous student representatives in the same position that I’m in now was inspiring.

‘The encouragement from the APA, particularly the committee, has been incredible. 

'Even though I have a lot to learn—and I am learning a lot from these experienced people—I feel empowered to participate in conversations and know that my voice is welcome and valued.’

His student voice was called on in May when the APA discovered that physiotherapy students would be excluded from receiving a federal government care degree payment while undertaking mandatory placements.

‘I was interviewed by a national media outlet. 

'It was an incredible opportunity for gaining experience in speaking with the media, trying to help people understand what students take on when studying for health degrees,’ says Calum.

Calum supports his studies with tutoring and part-time weekend work as an allied health assistant at Queensland Children’s Hospital and at the Surgical, Treatment and Rehabilitation Service, a subacute public hospital in Brisbane.

Calum hopes that his ongoing work and advocacy will make a positive impact for under-represented and marginalised people.

‘Advocacy is incredibly important and, for physiotherapists, advocating for patients is part of our role. I also believe strongly in advocating for other things, such as LGBTQIA+ health. I’m happy to speak up and say things that might be on other people’s minds.’

Calum is exploring the intersection between physiotherapy and LGBTQIA+ identity for his honours research, an area of interest sparked when he participated in UQ’s Global Change Youth Research Program in 2022.

He attributes his career choice to an amalgam of curiosity and a natural affinity for wanting to help people through listening to their stories, choosing to lean into the profession after quitting law studies.

‘While physiotherapy was my second preference for university applications, there were things that all came together while
I initially studied law,’ he says.

‘I like the science. Learning about the human body has always fascinated me. 

'Then, knowing that I would have the opportunity to spend time getting to know people and to understand them drew me towards the profession. 

'I realised that physio would enable me to have more of a direct impact on the people around me—to be a positive support and a conduit to help them make change in their lives. 

'Through each conversation I have, I am also developing and growing as a person and as a future leader. It’s all multifaceted.’

Since enrolling in physiotherapy, Calum has been a UQ student representative within his cohort. 

More recently, as an executive team member of the Queensland Physiotherapy Student Association, he has become involved in course accreditation processes and in planning and running student open days and other annual events.

Talking with prospective students about the tertiary studies process is something the student ambassador enjoys. 

‘You get to share your experience of enrolling and starting in physiotherapy. 

'I’ve done quite a bit of research assistant work as well, within the university, and it is good to be able to discuss those experiences and highlight what is possible.’

In recognition of leadership, academic accomplishments and involvement in community programs, UQ awarded Calum a scholarship under the Liveris Academy Merit Scholarship Scheme in 2023. 

He has also been a co-author on two peer-reviewed articles and he says more are on the way.

Nominations for the 2024 APA Board of Directors Student Prize are now open and the incumbent is eager for fellow students to discuss potential nomination with leaders at their physiotherapy schools.

‘I also encourage heads of schools to consider the students they are guiding and supporting at university. 

'They could have the next recipient under their wing,’ says Calum, adding that nominations must be proposed by the head, the deputy or a senior lecturer at the student’s physiotherapy school.

As for his future after university, Calum is looking forward to securing a rotational graduate position in a public hospital.

‘There are so many areas of physiotherapy that a lot of people aren’t necessarily aware of before entering the degree. 

'Through my research work at university, I have been privileged to explore some of them and to be guided by leaders in their field.

‘I want to continue to build my skill set and develop my professional and personal identity.

'While I’m interested in research and hope to pursue it, I also want diverse experiences and the rotation position will support that.

‘I have felt so supported by the faculty at UQ and I remain extremely grateful for my nomination. 

'Receiving such an accolade offers up amazing learning opportunities through networking, public speaking and advocacy work.

'Being a member of the National Advisory Council has also enabled me to see how the APA team works to advance the physiotherapy profession and I enjoy being part of that.’

Nominations for the 2024 APA Board of Directors Student Prize close on 30 August. Click here or email karen.ide@australian.physio for more details.