We’re thrilled to introduce our 2024 finalists and winners in the TAFE SA Honour Awards. In its fourth year, the TAFE SA Honour Awards program is a prestigious celebration of our outstanding alumni across career levels and industries.
From 228 nominations, 33 outstanding finalists were shortlisted across eight award categories. We had the privilege of honouring our finalists at a beautiful award ceremony hosted by the City of Adelaide in the historic Queen Adelaide Room at the Adelaide Town Hall.
It was a pleasure to welcome the Minister for Education, Training, and Skills, the Honourable Blair Boyer MP to the ceremony. Thank you for your inspiring words, Minister. The Right Honourable The Lord Mayor of Adelaide, Dr Jane Lomax-Smith AM, spoke about the vital support networks that make success possible. Thank you, Lord Mayor, for your warm hospitality and insightful words.
From the space sector to the arts, community advocacy to horticulture, carpentry to event management, our talented finalists and winners are making a significant difference to local, national, and international communities. Bravo!
Finalists working in and contributing to future-focused, emerging and growing industries, including but not limited to apprenticeships and trades, manufacturing, the space industry, digital infrastructure, renewable energy, VFX, VR, and AR, defence industry, agribusiness, high-tech, business services, health and medical industries, hospitality, wine, tourism and creative industries.
L-R: Delvin Weei Waai Khor, Rachel Owens, Alessandra Modra, Giselle Stutzer
Weei Waai Khor, or Delvin (he/him), is a software developer at Splose in Adelaide and a Bachelor of IT student at the University of South Australia. At Splose, he develops software for allied health, focusing on API integrations and performance, supporting more than 13,000 daily users. Previously at Interfy, he helped contractors manage finances by syncing data with Xero and MYOB, processing five billion transactions annually for 500 companies in Australia and New Zealand. Delvin is committed to advancing South Australia’s tech industry through digital transformation and mentorship, bolstering its reputation as a tech hub.
Rachel Owens (she/her) is passionate about the education and care of children's early years. This passion has led her to working with the Education Standards Board, who undertake and monitor services compliance with the national law and regulations for South Australian children. Rachel started her career later in life as an educator in the long day care industry during her Diploma studies at TAFE SA. Rachel became team leader where she could role model and mentor staff in quality practice. Recognised for her leadership skills, Rachel held the role of director at Nido Early School for 2 years. Rachel excelled in the role sharing knowledge with other service directors and leading a team of 25 educators. Rachel is driven to educate and share knowledge within the industry, reflected in her current position with the Education Standards Board.
Alessandra Modra (she/her), known as Ally, is a skilled cabinet maker in partnership with Daisy Smark at No.1 Lady Tradie, a business dedicated to helping women enter the trades. Passionate about her work, Ally also enjoys surfing and fitness, embracing an active lifestyle in her downtime. Her commitment to mentoring like-minded women in a traditionally male-dominated field highlights her dedication to fostering diversity and encouraging new talent in the trades.
Giselle Stutzer (she/her) is a TAFE SA graduate with an Associate Degree in Electronics Engineering (2016). She began her career at Fugro LADS, working in LiDAR technology. Since 2021, she has been an engineer at Neumann Space, where she played a key role in taking the Neumann Drive from prototype to a successful unit operating in space. Initially leading the software design and integration, she has since shifted her focus to electronics design, collaborating with a small team on the next iteration of the Neumann Drive. Now a senior engineer, Giselle continues to drive innovation in the Australian space industry.
Finalists working within arts and cultural industries, advancing cultural exchange, facilitating artistic dialogue, and contributing to a dynamic and robust creative sector.
L-R: Fiona Sherwin on behalf of OAKEY, Patrick Webb, Austin Breese, Katie Spain
Patrick Webb (he/him) is a passionate and collaborative game developer, and co-founder of Melonhead Games, which has successfully released their first independent console game Rooftop Renegade. Winning a spot in the PAX Indie Showcase, it was chosen as the People’s Choice Award, and was a Finalist for Excellence in Emerging Games at the Australian Game Developer Awards. Pat is enthusiastic about engaging with and supporting the game development industry and community. He is the founder and chair of South Australian Games Association (SAGA), created the first South Australian Game Exhibition (SAGE) within the South Australian Film Corporation, and represented South Australia at Gamescom Germany and PAX Australia.
Austin Breese (they/them) is a 25-year-old graduate from the Advanced Diploma in Screen and Media. After concluding their studies, Austin began a role for Salisbury council in the community learning and development team. Using their expertise, Austin has been able to cultivate a wide array of valuable learning opportunities while creating strong relationships within the community of Salisbury. Austin seeks to continue bringing creative technologies and media to the community while creating new self-sustaining clubs that will continue in Salisbury for years to come.
Katie Spain (she/her) is an award-winning journalist, author, MC and celebrant. She tells stories with heart and to earn a crust, is the national drinks writer for the Sydney Morning Herald and The Age, feature writer for Broadsheet, Australia’s Wine Business Magazine (WBM), state editor for Gourmet Traveller, and Australian correspondent for award-winning Swedish wine magazine Livets Goda. Katie also writes books (most recently about South Australia’s wine regions, distilleries and food producers). You may also hear her on ABC radio, chatting about food and wine destinations, growers and makers. She lives on a farm, wears colour (always), glitter (nearly always) and if she’s not behind her keyboard she can usually be found scouring the country for stories in a tiny vintage caravan called Charlie.
OAKEY (she/her) is a multidisciplinary artist living and working on Kaurna land. Her practice encompasses sculpture, site-specific installations, performance, video, and sound. Drawing from her immersive experiences in varied natural settings, OAKEY has developed a profound fascination with the interconnectedness of our world and the magic and wonder within it. Currently on a residency in Mongolia, she is deepening this understanding by staying with nomadic herders and learning about their ancient culture. She graduated with first-class honours in a Bachelor of Creative Arts in 2019, and has since received numerous awards and residencies. Most recently, her sculpture PORTAL won The Advertiser Contemporary Art Award at the SALA Festival Awards. Alongside her artistic practice, OAKEY is lead installer at Adelaide Contemporary Experimental (ACE) and also teaches children's workshops through Carclew.
Finalists who are living or working within regional South Australia and making a positive impact on their local community. Finalists must demonstrate a strong work ethic, drive, and creative thinking.
L-R: Kate Growden, Vanessa Leigh, Kismet Redjepi, Lauren Oxlade
Kate Growden (she/her) has shown outstanding dedication and adaptability in the tourism, hospitality, and events management industry. With a Certificate III in Event Management, she earned a Destination Australia Scholarship to pursue her bachelor's degree at TAFE SA. Kate has significantly impacted her local community by volunteering at regional events, advocating for fellow domestic, international and older learning students, and representing TAFE SA at major conferences as a student voice representative. Believing that she needs to give back to the regional clubs and communities that gave her so much previously, she balances study, part-time work, and raising a young child, demonstrating resilience and passion.
Kismet Redjepi (she/her) is a highly motivated salon owner. She is a hairdresser, beauty therapist, massage therapist, and nail technician. Kismet’s journey at TAFE SA started in 1987 completing pre vocational training in hair and beauty in Whyalla. Kismet spent the next few years completing all her certificates whilst operating her own salon in Port Augusta. Fast forward 36 years and she is still going strong owning and operating her salon. Over these years, she has employed many apprentices and guided them through TAFE SA. She is very passionate about training her apprentices and other staff. Kismet often contributes to her local community by offering hair and beauty services to cancer patients and long term unemployed. Kismet is driven by the motto: “never stop learning.”
Lauren Oxlade (she/her) is CEO of Regional Development Australia Limestone Coast, bringing more than 25 years of experience in state and local government. At work, Lauren is passionate about helping people, business and industry to grow, while at home her focus is on raising her 14 year old daughter. She is committed to lifelong learning and giving back to the community that she grew up in.
Vanessa Leigh (she/her) has lived in regional South Australia for most of her life. She is a committed lifelong learner, starting her education journey online with TAFE SA in 2012 while working fulltime in her family business and raising her two children. Returning to her family farm in the Adelaide Hills in 2016, Vanessa now works in regional economic development. She is passionate about creating solutions for regional communities and believes equitable access to education as well as collaboration and advocacy is key to overcoming challenges. Vanessa is currently studying a Masters of Business and says it’s unlikely to be her last.
Finalists who demonstrate enterprising vision, innovative flair, or a determination to succeed against the odds.
L-R: Alistair Rex, Armani Phillips, Zoë Freda Kopp, Phuong Diem Nguyen
Alistair Rex (he/him) faced profound challenges after a traumatic event in 2017, which left him grappling with mental health issues. In 2020, he began his recovery journey through education and volunteering, starting as a checkout operator at Foodbank. He completed his Certificate III in Community Services and followed it with a Certificate IV in Youth Work, leading to his first paid employment in over five years. By 2022, Alistair pursued a Diploma in Community Services and joined the Red Cross Police Call Outs Team, advocating for at-risk youth. Now 51, he has started university, studying Criminal Justice with aspirations to pursue Law in 2025.
Armani Phillips (she/her) is a 21 year old hairdresser with a passion for helping others feel confident through her work. Despite facing learning difficulties, she never gave up on her dream of becoming qualified. Throughout her TAFE SA journey, Armani had to overcome many obstacles, including multiple extensions and extra support to help her complete her studies. Her determination, patience, and resilience have been key to her success. Armani’s journey shows that no matter how tough things get, with the right support, and a strong spirit, anything is possible. She’s proud of what she’s achieved and excited to mentor others to succeed in their dream.
Phuong Diem Nguyen's (she/her) journey from Can Tho, Vietnam, to becoming a chef in Australia is a testament to her resilience and determination. Despite the tragic loss of her husband, she remained steadfast in her commitment to provide for her son and build a new life. Her ability to adapt to a new culture, language, and professional environment exemplifies the strength and courage that many immigrants display when faced with life's challenges. Phuong's story is not just about personal triumph; it's a reflection of the universal human spirit to overcome adversity and pursue one's dreams, no matter the obstacles. Her success as a chef is a delicious outcome of her hard work and passion, serving as an inspiration to others who may find themselves on a similar path.
Zoë Freda Kopp (she/her) is a proud Arrernte and Anangu (Yankunytjatjara/Pitjantjatjara) woman and professional makeup artist based in Adelaide, Kaurna Yerta. After completing her Diploma of Screen and Media (Specialist Makeup) in 2022 with TAFE SA, she has proceeded to work with notable organizations, including YIRRAMBOI Festival, Melbourne Fashion Week, SBS, NITV, and the 2024 Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair's Country to Couture. Zoë is also part of Carclew's newly founded Emerging First Nations Creatives Program, which empowers First Nations creatives to excel in their chosen industry. With a strong connection to her culture and a passion for educating and uplifting other emerging makeup artists, Zoë is eager to continue to expand her career in the creative industry whilst regularly working among communities to inspire other youth to hopefully begin their own small businesses.
Finalists who are contributing to local, national, or international communities through the course of their employment or on a voluntary basis. Finalists must demonstrate substantial commitment to creating positive change.
L-R: Desmond Mbangani, Danielle Ashford, Pauline Kareah Bill, Larissa Roberts, Sofina Le
Desmond Mbangani (he/him) migrated with his family to South Australia in 2017 from Botswana, where he managed a successful workplace training and management consulting business. He recently completed his Master of Social Work after finishing a Diploma of Community Service at TAFE SA. The Community Service course ignited a new drive and motivation for him to connect with the greater Adelaide community through volunteering and engaging with vulnerable children and families. It equipped him with practical skills for his roles within the Department for Child Protection and the Department of Correctional Services (DCS). Currently, he works in DCS Community Corrections and is part of a working group developing the first DCS African Services Strategy Action Plan, aimed at reducing reoffending in South Australia's African communities and enhancing cultural awareness and practices in line with the South Australian Multicultural Charter.
Danielle Ashford (she/her) is a proud Kaurna woman and a single mother of two, one with developmental delays after viral meningitis. After losing a child, father, and mother in six years, she became passionate about health. While pursuing her Diploma of Nursing full-time, she also completed a Diploma of Leadership and Management. Balancing her studies and parenting, Danielle worked nearly full-time as a coordinator for a population health promotion team in the First Nations community and completed a six-month enrolled nursing cadetship in the hospital. Danielle will never seek recognition but is definitely worthy.
Pauline Kareah Bill (she/her), born on July 27, 1984, in Simbu Province, Papua New Guinea, is working as a case manager with an aged care provider in Adelaide South Australia. Pauline grew up in the highlands of beautiful Papua New Guinea where she developed deep love of community services and started her career as a community nurse. Upon arriving in South Australia, she pursued her studies again with TAFE SA and graduated in 2024. Pauline’s dedication to serving people as a care giver in the community in her country has had a lasting impact on many lives she touched and served. Today, her vision is to inspire new generations to serve others with love.
Larissa Roberts’ (she/her) journey began as a volunteer at Lifeline, transitioning to private practice working with complex traumas. Hearing people’s stories inspired her to become a VET-sector trainer, write three Diplomas of Community Services and train trainers across Australia.
Larissa was a crisis response and duty worker at Yarrow Place Rape and Sexual Assault Service for over a decade; created the ‘Sharing our Knowledge Mental Health and Domestic Violence Cross Sector Collaboration Program’ for South Australian services and was the Keep in Touch Coordinator at OARS reducing recidivism. Now she is a member of both a committee advising the Australian Digital Health Agency and of the Australian Multicultural Health Collaborative working on federal government health projects to ensure equality, inclusion, health and wellbeing for everyone in the community. As a volunteer manager at Spirit of Woman, she aims to fulfill the vision of its founder, Helen Oxenham, OAM.
Sofina Le (she/her) is an avid volunteer in community, youth and aged care spaces. She has driven initiatives to engage and support young people and the broader community across the various industries she volunteers in. This has been bolstered by her lived experience as a young person and desire to connect with others to help enrich the community and encourage connection and inclusion. She is a passionate youth and mental health advocate through her work as a Well-being, Health & Youth Commissioner, and as an accredited mental health first aider focusing on improving accessibility to health care services and destigmatising mental health.
Finalists who have demonstrated exceptional leadership and made a significant impact in promoting and preserving cultural diversity, celebrating diverse cultural traditions, fostering intercultural understanding, and enhancing inclusivity.
L-R: Devna Dalal, Ewaz Sharifi (Torani), Jessica Karpany, Shamina Stanikzai
Devna Dalal (they/them) is a committed and ferociously supportive person who has made their mark on the community services sector. In their role as a therapeutic youth worker at Junction, they harnessed their intersectional identities - Indian, queer, non-binary, and neurodivergent - to support their similarly diverse young people. Their cultural leadership not only enabled the young people to advocate for their own gender diversity to be acknowledged, but campaigned for inclusion within their team and management. Devna is the epitome of diversity and gives their all to inclusivity for those who are especially vulnerable within our system.
Ewaz Sharifi (Torani) (he/him) is an active member of the society and organiser of numerous social projects and cultural events in the Adelaide communities. Ewaz has studied Certificate IV at Legal Service at TAFE SA (2022) and foundation courses for the degree of Law at University of South Australia (2024). Beside the study, he has 8 years of experience in painting services and operating his own business. Currently Ewaz is a member of United for Human Rights from the Hazara community in Adelaide. He belongs to the Hazara ethnicity of Afghanistan which was massacred and faced persecution and genocide in the last two centuries in Afghanistan. Ewaz is the founder of Omagh E Naw Cultural Association and an active partner for many social associations back in Pakistan. Ewaz was also a successful teacher for refugees in Pakistan and has just begun his Bachelor of Laws at University of South Australia.
Shamina Stanikzai (she/her) has been living in Adelaide, South Australia, with her family for over five years. She is currently studying Sociology at the University of Adelaide and works as a bi-cultural facilitator with STTARS, where she supports cultural transition. Shamina also teaches Pashto at an Afghan community school and serves as a Pashto language curriculum specialist for Education for Afghanistan. Originally from Kabul, Afghanistan, she migrated to Australia in 2019 as a refugee. In 2020, she began learning English at TAFE SA, starting with Certificate I and gradually progressing to Certificate III. Shamina is passionate about promoting education and cultural understanding.
Jess Karpany (she/her) is a proud Narungga and Ngarrindjeri woman who has worked in Aboriginal Education within the Department for Education over the past 11 years. Jess has showed passion and dedication through representation of Aboriginal cultural perspectives and has challenged educators thinking to promote better outcomes for Aboriginal learners, their families and the wider community. Jess has always committed herself to her family values and community obligations and will connect with her cultural roots for support and growth. Jess has extended her skills and knowledge through participating in courses through internal and external avenues to support deeper levels of thinking and understanding. Her skills and qualifications include completing most recently a Certificate IV in Community Development in 2023 through TAFE SA at Regency campus.
Finalists who demonstrate excellence in skill, dedication, and professionalism in their chosen fields. This award recognises finalists who deliver results and inspire others around them.
L-R: Mitchell Taylor, Dr. Norman Baker on behalf of Alierah Foley, Jon Mckeigue on behalf of Trent Baker, Megan Bowditch, Nicolle Hahn
Mitchell Taylor (he/him) is a dedicated builder with five years of experience in residential construction. He has excellent craftsmanship and attention to detail, and successfully completed numerous home projects. Mitchell is passionate about creating quality spaces and emphasises sustainable building practices. His collaborative approach helps build strong relationships with clients and colleagues. Outside of work, he enjoys quality time with friends and family. With a reputation for reliability and a commitment to excellence, Mitchell continues to make a positive impact in the building industry.
Alierah Foley (she/her) is a highly respected veterinary nurse, bringing resilience, compassion, and exceptional skill to her role. Alierah began her career by volunteering at an animal shelter, where her compassion and talent shone. Hired as a kennel hand, her capabilities were quickly recognised, and she was encouraged to pursue a traineeship in Veterinary Nursing. Despite facing life challenges, Alierah completed her Certificate IV while raising two young children. Now taking on the responsibilities of a senior nurse and mentor, she has been praised by her employer as a “shining example” of a young person who has achieved excellence in her place of employment. Alierah was nominated by her employer who wrote, “I cannot speak highly enough of Alierah representing veterinary nurses as compassionate, caring, and highly skilled professionals.”
Trent Baker (he/him) is a seasoned pâtissier and earned his Certificate IV in Patisserie from TAFE SA 11 years ago. During his studies, he was chosen to travel to Réunion Island, collaborating with local cooking schools and government on culinary education initiatives. His career has taken him across Adelaide's patisseries, chocolate shops, large-scale catering events, and artisan sourdough and pastry production. Trent is also a lifelong learner, continually researching and experimenting with global bread and pastry techniques. Beyond the kitchen, he actively volunteers with the Murray Bridge Players and Singers Inc., contributing to onstage, backstage, and directing, nurturing community engagement through theatre.
Finalists who are making a significant impact on the City of Adelaide through cultural, economic, or community contributions.
L-R: Rebecca Stevens, Joshua Smart, Matthew Lui Piantadosi
Josh Smart (he/him) is the managing director of Smart Event Management, a business specialising in event technology, live production, and audio visual. With over 16 years of experience, he has significantly contributed to Adelaide’s business services sector by integrating innovative solutions such as live streaming, real-time captioning, and on-demand registration into events. Josh holds a Diploma of Live Production and Technical Services and a Certificate IV in Training and Assessment from TAFE SA, and has since gone on to study business at the University of South Australia. In addition to his professional achievements, he is a dedicated volunteer and board director with 16 years of service.
Matthew Lui Piantadosi (he/him) is a qualified human resources practitioner and men's health advocate, with a Bachelor Degree in Business (HR Management). Currently working for the University of Adelaide as a senior HR advisor, Matthew is also completing his postgraduate in Psychology. Matthew is a prominent figure within the community as a result of his contribution towards men’s mental health awareness and suicide prevention. As a MOvember ambassador for the last 14 years, Matthew has actively raised money and contributed towards mental health research, developments, programs and initiatives to combat and remove the stigma in mental health, driving a change in the community to support the one million Aussie men living with anxiety and depression.
Rebecca Stevens (she/her) is an agricultural entomologist passionate about developing innovative, resilient, and sustainable future food systems. Since graduating from TAFE SA in 2019 she has completed a Bachelor of Agricultural Science and Honours Degree at the University of Adelaide. Rebecca graduated with an impeccable academic record, First Class Honours, and an impressive list of awards and scholarships, including the prestigious University Medal. Throughout her studies she has developed multiple research partnerships with prominent horticultural industries and is now undertaking a PhD in collaboration with the South Australian apple industry. Rebecca also co-ordinates several volunteer organisations, provides community workshops that promote sustainable urban landscapes, and mentors undergraduate students at the University of Adelaide.
Alierah Foley is a highly respected veterinary nurse at Para Hills Veterinary Clinic. She was nominated by her employer as a “shining example” of a young person overcoming the odds and achieving excellence in her vocation. Despite extremely tough personal challenges, Alierah triumphed against adversity to complete her Certificate IV qualification. She is now taking on the responsibilities of a senior nurse and mentor. In her nomination, it was evident that Alierah is indispensable to the Para Hills Veterinary Clinic due to her skills and high-quality service, her ability to connect with people from all walks of life, and her willingness to always go above and beyond. She has been described as a “true inspiration to all students.” In her nomination, her employer wrote: “I cannot speak highly enough of Alierah representing veterinary nurses as compassionate, caring, and highly skilled professionals.”
This year, we were thrilled to present the Joanne Denley Award to celebrate the transformational power of vocational education and training. The Joanne Denley Award is named in honour of former TAFE SA Board Chair, Ms Joanne Denley, in recognition of her extraordinary 12 years of service to our organisation.
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