Hannah Felise-Clarke
AOD Clinician, Odyssey
Postgraduate Diploma in Health Science in Mental Health and Addictions student
Bachelor of Health Science
Watching her son struggle with mental health and addiction inspired her to better understand how to offer support, says Hannah Felise-Clarke who came to AUT as a mature student to move into a career in health.
“At first, I chose to study a nursing degree, however during my second semester at university, my son became unwell and struggled with mental health and addiction issues. I wanted to understand what he was going through and what I could do to help both of us through these challenges, so I completed a Bachelor of Health Science with a focus on mental health and addictions courses. I was determined to support other Pasifika tangata whaiora and whānau facing similar challenges.
“On my first day of orientation at AUT I was absolutely petrified and so scared that I’d be the oldest student in the room. I couldn’t shake the feeling what everyone else was far ahead of me. Doubts crept in; maybe it wasn’t a good idea. But then they held a session with a cohort of mature adult student advisors, and that changed everything. I listened in awe as successful mature graduates, some even older than me, shared their journeys. Looking around, I realised I wasn’t alone. From that orientation day I was surrounded by a community that genuinely cared. No matter how challenging the journey was, there was always someone to encourage and remind me that I belonged.”
Walking across the graduation stage to receive her parchment was the proudest moment in her life.
“At that moment I knew I had made it; going from someone who had never finished college to being the only person in my family to attend university and earn a degree. It was nothing short of extraordinary. In my last year of study, my husband, who also had a pre-existing heart condition, was diagnosed with Stage 3 cancer. At the same time my son was missing; homeless, battling treatment-resistant schizophrenia and addiction. By the grace of God, a year has passed, my husband is now cancer free, and my son is safe at home, happy, taking his prescribed medication and engaging in therapy. Through it all, AUT gave me a reason to keep going and pursue my dream of graduating while standing strong for my family.
“I’ll forever be grateful for the kindness, wisdom and constant support of AUT staff. As mature female Pasifika students, we’re often too shy, too ashamed to ask for help and try to do it on our own. But I learned from Tony Solomona, Lynda Guildford, Sara Lilo, Hendon Stephens, Natalie Rain, Michele Yeoman and my many lecturers. Their unwavering support, guidance, and belief in me gave me the strength I needed during the toughest moments. Not a day goes by where I don’t reflect on their impact. It gave me strength to make them all proud of me and made me push through.”
Empowering others
After graduating from AUT at the end of 2024, Hannah now works at Odyssey and loves being able to support other families who are experiencing addiction.
“My job involves engaging and connecting with really unwell tangata whaiora who are experiencing severe addiction challenges in the community. My role is to support both them and their whānau in navigating the complexities of recovery, whether through the abstinences or harm reduction strategies, to help them stay alive and continue their journey to wellbeing.”
She considers this her dream role.
“I find deep fulfilment in the values of manaakitanga, whanaungatanga and rangatiratanga with whaiora and their whānau. I love creating a space where they feel welcome, valued and supported. Building those connections, empowering them to take control of their own recovery, and walking alongside them as they achieve their goals is incredibly rewarding.”
Advice for other students
Hannah – a recipient of two scholarships from Le Va and a participant in the prestigious Le Va Le Tautua Pacific Emerging Leaders Programme – has some great advice for other students who are thinking about university study.
“AUT is more than just a university; it is a village, a community that embraces you with open arms. Here you don’t just study – you belong. The staff, your fellow students and the support services truly become your extended family. You’ll find a community that not only cares about your academic success but also your personal wellbeing. There will be challenges along the way, but remember that you're never alone. Be open, embrace the journey and remember, you're part of something bigger than just a student body – you're part of a family.”
Don't be afraid to ask for help when you need it, she adds.
“Whether it's academic advice, mental health support or even just a space to talk, there's always someone to guide you, lend an empathetic ear and help you stay on track. The connections you make at AUT will be lifelong and the support you receive will empower you to push through difficult times.”
