Amber Hae Hae awarded the 2025 Pam O’Gorman Bursary
Better Hearing Australia (Brisbane) is proud to announce Amber Hae Hae as the recipient of the 2025 Pam O’Gorman Bursary.
A Master of Audiology Studies student at the University of Queensland, Amber brings to her studies a rare combination of lived experience, resilience, and an unwavering passion to improve the lives of people with hearing loss.
A Lived Experience of Hearing Loss
Diagnosed with progressive hearing loss at the age of four, Amber received her first cochlear implant at ten. It transformed her ability to communicate—but not the many barriers she continued to face throughout her education.
From missed classroom moments to the emotional toll of feeling misunderstood, Amber’s early experiences laid the foundation for a future shaped by empathy, deep listening, and a desire to make a difference.
“I know firsthand how life-changing it can be to feel heard, supported, and equipped with the tools to communicate,” Amber shares. “Audiology is more than a career path to me—it’s personal.”
“The journey hasn’t been easy. I’ve faced barriers that most students never have to consider.”
Facing Barriers—and Breaking Through
Throughout high school and undergraduate study, Amber often had to forgo extracurricular opportunities to access academic support. Later, at university, stigma around accessibility made advocating for her needs even more challenging.
“The journey hasn’t been easy. I’ve faced barriers that most students never have to consider from accessing lectures, participating in group discussions, managing fatigue from constantly listening and processing, and navigating a learning environment that isn’t always inclusive,” Amber stated.
But rather than deterring her, these experiences deepened her resolve to become the kind of professional she once needed.
Now living on the Gold Coast and commuting to Brisbane for her master’s degree, Amber juggles work, study, Auslan interpreters, and the management of assistive listening technologies—all while navigating the fatigue that comes with constant communication barriers.
Recently, she began the process of seeking a second cochlear implant following a further decline in hearing, adding yet another layer to an already demanding year.
Turning Challenge into Purpose
Despite the daily challenges, Amber remains focused on her goal: to support others with hearing loss through compassionate, informed audiological care.
She credits her determination and adaptability to the strength she has drawn from her community, and to her belief that lived experience is a powerful tool in helping others.
The Impact of the Bursary
The Pam O’Gorman Bursary will provide critical support in Amber’s final year, easing the financial strain of block placements, assistive technologies, and essential study materials. With additional resources like transcription software, group microphones, and better access to clinical practice tools, Amber will be able to fully participate in both academic and extracurricular life—including UQ’s Book Club, where she’s an active member.
“This bursary affirms that people like me belong in this field,” Amber says. “Our experiences are not just valid, but valuable.”
A Future Built on Understanding
Amber’s story is a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when perseverance meets purpose.
“Amber exemplifies the spirit of the Pam O’Gorman Bursary—resilient, compassionate, and driven by lived experience. Her commitment to making audiology more inclusive and accessible aligns strongly with Better Hearing Australia’s mission, ” Tony Whelan, Business Manager, Better Hearing Australia (Brisbane), said.
BHA is honoured to support her on her path and look forward to the many ways she will shape the future of hearing care in Australia.
The Pam O’Gorman Bursary
The Pam O’Gorman Bursary, awarded annually by Better Hearing Australia Brisbane, provides a $2,000 grant to support Queensland tertiary students with hearing loss. The bursary was established in honour of Pam O’Gorman, a dedicated educator and advocate, who transformed her own experience of hearing loss into a legacy of support.
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