“I began studying law because I was interested in people, community, and justice.”

After completing Law, Arts, and her Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice, Skills & Ethics at Griffith, Maddie Francis built a career in Native Title and Cultural Heritage law, advising Aboriginal community-controlled health organisations. But when her son Ashton was born ten weeks early, everything changed.

That experience led Maddie to found NICU Cheer, a nationwide volunteer movement supporting families with babies in Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs). What began as a small Christmas gift idea has grown into an award-winning initiative with:

- 750+ volunteers across Australia
- Thousands of families supported through care packages, online support, and awareness campaigns
- Snuggle Hearts, a scent-bonding tool helping parents and babies stay connected during separation
- Partnerships with organisations like Penguin Random House, Pinchapoo, and Proud Poppy Clothing

https://ow.ly/NNLg50Wbc2F

Maddie also contributes to national medical guidelines, sits on hospital working groups, lectures in Neonatal Care at La Trobe University, and works full-time at the Olga Tennison Autism Research Centre, the same place her son received early support.

“These roles weren’t part of my formal training, but they were made possible by my postgraduate studies at Griffith.”

Maddie’s story is a powerful reminder of how professional skills can lead to deeply personal impact. And at the heart of it all?

“My family is my proudest achievement and biggest supporters in all I do. I’m thankful to Griffith for equipping me with the skills to confidently lead and succeed in two dream roles simultaneously.”

Griffith University

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