Tatenda (Tate) Hopkinson
Somers,VIC
Summary
Former marketing and commerce professional turned dedicated mental health practitioner, with a background that bridges business and wellbeing. With a background in marketing, property management, and retail consultancy and after spending seven years as a full-time mum, I transitioned into the mental health space, driven by a strong commitment to individual and community wellbeing. Currently working as a school counsellor, I bring a distinctive combination of interpersonal insight, strategic thinking, and trauma-informed practice. My experience spans counselling, youth development, community health, and holistic wellness, including clinical Pilates and rehabilitative support. While primarily focused on mental health, I remain actively involved in our family businesses in wine bars, property development, and fitness—combining entrepreneurial skills with a passion for optimal, all-round wellbeing and lifestyle.
Overview
16
16
years of professional experience
Work History
School Counsellor (Wellbeing)
Western Port Secondary College
02.2023 - Current
- Provide individual counselling and case support for students’ emotional, academic, and social concerns
- Advocate for vulnerable students, coordinating with external agencies for support
- Design and implement evidence-based mental health and wellbeing initiatives
- Collaborate with DHHS, Headspace, psychologists, and other external professionals
- Monitor student attendance, engagement, and develop intervention plans
Reformer Pilates Instructor
Balnarring Gym & Private
04.2018 - Current
- Deliver tailored private and group Pilates classes with a focus on rehabilitation and wellness
- Integrate clinical approaches for injury recovery and biopsychosocial health
- Promote myofascial release, nutrition, and reflective self-care practices
Wellbeing Placement (Elevate Program)
Western Port Secondary College
10.2022 - 12.2022
- Supported re-engagement of disengaged students into mainstream education
- Conducted assessments, observed counselling sessions, and facilitated wellbeing initiatives
- Collaborated with Headspace, Shed 11, and families to support student development
Marketing & Events Committee Member
Balnarring Picnic Racing Club
09.2018 - 04.2022
- Organised major events, including Fashion on the Field and sponsor activations
- Developed marketing content and engaged with local sponsors and media outlets
Empower Core Team Member
Empower Australia
07.2018 - 12.2021
- Coordinated foodbank operations serving 300+ families weekly
- Managed inventory, forecasted needs, and oversaw logistics
- Led volunteer, mentorship and fundraising campaigns with local charities
Commercial Property Manager and Retail Consultancy
Matthew Iles Pty Ltd
03.2014 - 12.2015
- Managed leasing, contracts, and marketing for commercial properties
- Delivered client service and facilitated high-value transactions across Melbourne
- Negotiated leases for leading brands in shopping malls, including Aesop, T2, Koko Black, Kookai, Aquila, Boost Juice, and Nando’s
Assistant Residential Property Manager
Matthew Iles Pty Ltd
04.2009 - 03.2014
- Supported property inspections, administration, and leasing
Assistant Consultant (Marketing)
Circ Consulting
10.2009 - 03.2011
- Conducted brand strategy research for FMCG clients, including Fonterra, Mars Pet Foods, Lite n’ Easy, and Hereford Beef
- Designed presentations, mood boards, and workshop materials for clients, including Betfair and Crown Casino.
Marketing Assistant (Intern)
Apsley and Company
06.2009 - 01.2010
- Assisted in campaign planning, PR, and event coordination
- Executed visual merchandising for David Jones and Myer.
Marketing Support (Intern)
Monash University Marketing Dept.
07.2009 - 11.2009
- Produced strategic reports and alumni engagement communications
- Supported event planning and database management
Education
Narrative Therapy -
The Dulwich Centre
08.2025
Graduate Diploma of Psychology - Psychology
Swinburne University
07-2025
Diploma of Mental Health -
Stirling Institute
01.2023
Diploma & Certificate IV in Clinical Pilates -
Breathe Education
01.2016
Bachelor of Commerce - Marketing & Management
Deakin University
01.2009
Skills
- School counselling and student wellbeing
- Trauma-informed practice
- Mental health advocacy and case management
- Youth engagement
- Community engagement
- Stakeholder collaboration
- Event planning and coordination
- Marketing strategy
- Pilates instruction and rehabilitation
References
Available upon request.
Volunteer Experience
- Meals on Wheels, 01/2024 - Present
- Isaiah Children’s Home, Zimbabwe, 01/2023 - Present
- One World Voices, Frankston Choir, 01/2022 - Present
- Planetshakers Food Bank (Including COVID-19 Support), 01/2016 - 12/2022
Languages
English
Native/ Bilingual
Shona
Native/ Bilingual
Spanish
Limited
Timeline
School Counsellor (Wellbeing)
Western Port Secondary College
02.2023 - Current
Wellbeing Placement (Elevate Program)
Western Port Secondary College
10.2022 - 12.2022
Marketing & Events Committee Member
Balnarring Picnic Racing Club
09.2018 - 04.2022
Empower Core Team Member
Empower Australia
07.2018 - 12.2021
Reformer Pilates Instructor
Balnarring Gym & Private
04.2018 - Current
Commercial Property Manager and Retail Consultancy
Matthew Iles Pty Ltd
03.2014 - 12.2015
Assistant Consultant (Marketing)
Circ Consulting
10.2009 - 03.2011
Marketing Support (Intern)
Monash University Marketing Dept.
07.2009 - 11.2009
Marketing Assistant (Intern)
Apsley and Company
06.2009 - 01.2010
Assistant Residential Property Manager
Matthew Iles Pty Ltd
04.2009 - 03.2014
Narrative Therapy -
The Dulwich Centre
Graduate Diploma of Psychology - Psychology
Swinburne University
Diploma of Mental Health -
Stirling Institute
Diploma & Certificate IV in Clinical Pilates -
Breathe Education
Bachelor of Commerce - Marketing & Management
Deakin University
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