Connecting the reference pin to the cathode of the TL431 and adding a shunt resistor will make the simplest voltage reference.
But if you want more current you can add a single NPN transistor and now you will have what is basically a 2.5V voltage regulator.
I think the pass transistor is a good idea, but I would be a bit worried about oscillation. I have added some additional parts to help prevent that but my values are "guesstimates". You may need to experiment on the bench. I do not completely trust simulation to guarantee stability. Different versions of the TL431 are different! Please see my schematic image.
For Q1; 2N3904 is OK for lower current up to 50-100 mA. 2N4401 works well if the current is higher. There is a lot of overlap between these two transistor types.
R1=1K is good for 8V-12V input; you may need to lower it for lower V_INPUT.
R2, R3, and C1 are feedback loop compensation.
R4 and C2 are some output bypass. The TI TL431 datasheet describes using resistance in series with output capacitors to insure stability. Adding Q1 makes instability more likely so my warning of possible instability ought not be ignored.
R5 is a minimum load. If your actual load current can ever get down below 1-2 mA you may need this. R5 = 1K may be better but that will burn more power.
