Vocational student of the year finalists
Thuy Dao
Certificate III in EAL (Access)
Thuy’s learning journey is about building confidence and finding her voice. She studied the Certificate III in EAL (Access) at Chisholm, while concurrently studying Early Childhood Education.
She contributes to her community by volunteering in childcare, where she discovered a passion for supporting children with additional needs.
Her teacher reflects, “Thuy’s journey shows how education can truly change a life.”
Often arriving early to class, Thuy would speak with her teacher to improve her English. She helped elderly students with technology; her calm, supportive manner made her peers feel capable and proud of their work.
“My proudest achievement is how far I have come in my learning and personal growth,” Thuy says. “I no longer feel afraid to speak English and participate in discussions.”
Kaylar Evans
Certificate IV in Alcohol and Other Drugs
Kaylar wants to help others. As a single mother of three, she also hopes to show her children that no matter your circumstances, you can achieve great things.
Drawing on her lived experience, Kaylar completed the Certificate IV in Alcohol and Other Drugs at Chisholm.
In class, Kaylar was collaborative and insightful, helping peers understand complex concepts. She transformed her experiences into motivation for positive change.
“I met fantastic educators and classmates. The whole experience was beautiful,” she says.
Kaylar contributes to her community through culturally safe, non-judgemental support. She volunteers as a Narcotics Anonymous Australia facilitator, creating safe spaces for recovery.
She wants to further her studies and work in the justice system, supporting recovery and positive change.
Cena Farahmand
Certificate IV in Mental Health
Driven by the need for mental health awareness in his community, Cena completed the Certificate IV in Mental Health. He is recognised by his teachers for his remarkable ability to uplift peers and his exemplary academic achievements.
Cena credits his studies with providing the tools to handle conflict calmly, significantly improving his self-awareness, confidence and emotional intelligence.
Beyond the classroom, Cena is a volunteer committee member for the Afghan Australian Development Organisation, ensuring programs are ethical and impactful. By facilitating community storytelling, Cena is already making an impact.
Looking ahead, he plans to pursue a Bachelor of Psychology and set up an organisation specialising in mental health support for CALD and Afghan populations.
Virginia Hunt
Certificate IV in School Based Education Support
Seeking a fresh start after the pandemic, Virginia transitioned from a 30-year career in higher education to study the Certificate IV in School Based Education Support. As a mature-aged student, she modelled to her daughter that learning is for life.
Virginia became a mentor for new student cohorts, offering guidance on placements and sharing her experiences. She enjoyed connecting with likeminded people and joined a thriving network after her course completion.
Her community contributions include volunteering at a local primary school, where Virginia played a significant role in developing the school’s Reconciliation Action Plan.
Having regained her professional confidence, Virginia is now studying a Certificate IV in Training and Assessment, aiming to inspire the next generation as an Early Childhood Education TAFE teacher.
Antonio Lopez
Certificate III in Barbering
Once feeling lost while working early factory shifts, Antonio’s life changed when he began cutting friends’ hair during the pandemic. He pursued a Certificate III in Barbering – a move he says changed his life.
Beyond mastering tools and time management, Antonio’s unwavering focus led him to win first place at the Vocational Barber Battle, where he met his current employer.
Antonio has since brought his skills to prestigious stages, including Formula 1 and the Boxing Day Test. He gives back by mentoring younger team members, sharing the professional standards he’s mastered in class.
Driven by a growth mindset and self-belief, Antonio looks toward the future with a clear goal – to open his own business and teach the next generation of barbers.
Tyler Ryan
Diploma of Nursing
Tyler’s path to healthcare was redefined after a concussion in Year 12 led to struggles with exams and tests. Swapping his physiotherapy dreams for the Diploma of Nursing, Tyler enjoyed the hands-on environment where he truly found peace.
His teachers praise his commitment, noting he even maintained his studies while recovering from an ankle injury.
Beyond his technical growth, nursing has pulled Tyler out of his shell. It has allowed him to build rapport with patients through professional empathy.
His dedication extends to his community. He is a trainer for a local football club and provides care for his family.
"Nursing gives me joy," Tyler shares, as he works toward becoming a Registered Nurse and exploring a career in paramedicine.
Jeremy Schepemaker
Certificate IV in Alcohol and Other Drugs
Jeremy’s journey studying the Certificate IV in Alcohol and Other Drugs has been one of profound personal and professional growth. Once feeling out of his depth in the sector, Jeremy now feels work-ready and confident to give anything a try.
He credits his time at Chisholm with increasing his capabilities. He now feels he can always be curious and ask questions.
Jeremy’s teacher praised his final observation task, which was performed to a high standard rarely seen, and highlighted his advanced technical skills. He was a stabilising, unifying influence in class, appreciated by his peers.
A mentor and advocate, Jeremy aims to work in the public sector (funding and grants) to make support services more accessible for everyone.