#59 Tara Holst: 3 Secrets of Running Student Accommodation | Mental Health & Gen Z

National AI & Cybersecurity Leadership Summit 2025 https://lnkd.in/g7eg9bjE Tap the Link. If you like what Dev is wearing, book an appointment with yourself. https://lnkd.in/gAY743-C Disclaimer The content presented in this Podcast may contain discussions of sensitive topics, including but not limited to drug and alcohol abuse, mental health challenges, domestic violence, trauma, and other distressing experiences. These stories are shared with permission and aim to promote understanding, awareness, and respectful conversation. Viewer and listener discretion is advised. This content is not intended to glorify or promote harmful behaviour. It reflects personal lived experiences and does not necessarily represent the views of the host, platform, or any affiliated organisations. If you or someone you know is affected by any of the issues discussed, support is available. In Australia, you can contact: Lifeline – 13 11 14 Beyond Blue – 1300 22 4636 1800RESPECT (Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence) – 1800 737 732 Please take care while engaging with this content. -------------------------- Join us for a fascinating conversation with Tara, a seasoned professional who transitioned from a teaching background to running a large student accommodation service. In this episode, Tara shares her personal journey and offers an insightful look into the challenging yet rewarding world of supporting Gen Z students. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: -From Classroom to Complex: Tara reveals how her teaching degree unexpectedly equipped her with the essential skills for managing hundreds of residents. -Mental Health is a Must: We discuss why mental health support is crucial for today's students and how accommodation services are trained to observe, connect, and guide tenants facing homesickness, academic stress, or personal struggles. Tara highlights the importance of having the right support systems in place. -First-Year Struggles: Learn about the common challenges new international students face, from English as a Second Language confidence to navigating public transport and simply learning how to do their laundry! -The Gen Z Experience: Discover the types of engaging events Tara’s team runs—from deep-sea fishing and farm visits to entrepreneur sessions and life skills workshops—all designed to help students explore Australian culture and build a strong community. -Self-Care in a Demanding Role: Tara opens up about her personal experience with burnout and how she now prioritises self-care and ensures her team does the same when constantly supporting others. The power of a simple "connection" is everything.