GOLD Coast local Tim Eckersley has been given an opportunity to change his life.

As one of five indigenous scholarship winners from the Gold Coast Institute of TAFE, the mature-age student is about to embark on a new journey, rediscovering his true ability when he returns to the classroom.

Mr Eckersley said his life had been a rollercoaster ride, dropping out of school in year eight, battling drug addictions and spending time in and out of prison.

“I know I would not be the person I am today if I hadn’t experienced difficult times, but I also know that I can use my rocky journey to my advantage and give back to the community,” he said.

“I am honoured to receive a scholarship at Gold Coast Institute of TAFE.”

Mr Eckersley said he hoped to complete a Diploma of Community Services.

“I will then be on my way to reaching my dream of mentoring young children who are experiencing similar difficulties that I had in the past,” he said.

Acting chief executive officer Aaron Devine said the scholarship program had been very successful and was devised after consultation with the Institute’s Indigenous Advisory Board.

“Offering scholarships to outstanding individuals in the indigenous community is our way of overcoming barriers such as cost, and to reward those who show great potential,” Mr Devine said.