We’re delighted to introduce the finalists for the 2022 TAFE SA Honour Awards.
Across 10 award categories, our highly accomplished finalists are pursuing excellence in their chosen career paths, contributing creatively and innovatively to their industries, and making a lasting impact on their communities.
From health care to IT, hospitality to creative industries, community service to trades, our finalists are utilising their skills, talent, and knowledge to create positive change in metropolitan, regional, and remote locations.
This year, we received an outstanding 374 nominations, and we were inspired by the determination, generosity, hard work, and passion of our graduates. It was a complex selection process, with many excellent and worthy nominees. 33 finalists were selected who met and exceeded our selection criteria.
We thank everybody for the time, effort, and care that went into submitting a nomination. We are thrilled to announce the finalists for 2022.
Winners will be announced at the TAFE SA Honour Awards event at Adelaide Town Hall on Thursday 1 December 2022.
Finalists working in and contributing to future-focused, emerging and new industries, including but not limited to the space industry, digital infrastructure, renewable energy, VFX, VR, and AR, defence industry, agribusiness, high-tech, business services, health and medical industries, and creative industries.
Hilary Schubert-Jones (they/them) is a future talent pipeline acquisition specialist, with a deep passion for Diversity and Inclusion. They are committed to increasing opportunities for all underrepresented groups with a focus on gender, neurodiversity and First Nations Peoples’ prospects and removing barriers for individuals reaching their full potential.
Scott Faulder (he/him) is Head of Product Development for R.M.Williams’ apparel and footwear ranges, and a board member for the South Australian Fashion Industries Association. During his time at R.M Williams, Scott has designed, developed and managed key projects including ceremonial uniforms for Team Australia in multiple Paralympic and Commonwealth Games. He is currently leading new projects in onshoring production from overseas manufacturers and executing a new plan to increase Australian Made.
Dale Goldfinch (he/him) works in the extremely fast moving and emerging area of additive manufacturing. He regularly participates in national working groups, contributes to research papers, and has been pivotal in providing training to Australia’s Special Forces soldiers on the exploitation of additive manufacturing. Recently, he held an instrumental role in developing novel heat shielding structures for complex hypersonic flight vehicles. In the past, Dale has been a finalist in the SA Training Awards – Apprentice of the Year, the winner of the SA/WA Apprentice of the Year for the Group Training Awards, and has been the recipient of many commendations and internal awards whilst working for the Defence Science and Technology Group.
Finalists who are within the first 10 years of their careers and are recognised by their peers, employers, and other stakeholders as excelling in their industry.
Jasmin Haas (she/her) is excelling in her career in the Robotic Process Automation (RPA) space and is helping to progress the capability of process automation at SA Power Networks. Despite not having a technology background, she has quickly learnt multiple languages and has become the resident RPA expert in her team. She has volunteered her time at TAFE SA events, and with the organisation, HerTechPath, assisting with school workshops that broadcast the amazing opportunities women can have in male-dominated fields.
James Beaumont (he/him) is a 20 year old TAFE SA Cyber-Security graduate who has excelled in volunteer roles with youth, disability, and mental health advocacy, as well as finding great success in his career with a full-time role at Chamonix IT Consulting. Despite challenges with mental health and struggling in senior years of high school, he used his lived experience to not only overcome many challenges, but to give back to the community by helping those who are going through similar circumstances. James is the current 2022 Young Citizen of the Year for the City of Marion.
Saverio Vasapollo (he/him) is a Technician at the Adelaide branch of Robert Bird Group, a global consulting engineering firm. He is currently working on the design of Tarrkarri – Centre for First Nations Cultures at Lot 14 on North Terrace. Saverio held a volunteer position as the president of a Linux User Group in Milan, offering free technical support and training to the community. Due to his coding skills, Saverio is currently working with TAFE SA to introduce students to Visual Computational Design in Revit.
Alexander Dunn (he/him) started his apprenticeship when he was 29, and after a year and a half, he transitioned into the aged care sector where he gained his qualification. In 2021, he was selected as one of 32 culinary apprentices nationally to take part of the “Proud To Be A Chef” program. He has become passionate about removing the stigma that surrounds cooking in aged and health care industries.
Finalists who are making a positive contribution within regional South Australia. Finalists must demonstrate a strong work ethic and creative, innovative thinking.
In 2006 after starting year 12, Jason Gilbert (he/him) was given the opportunity to have an apprenticeship as a mechanic, which lead to a dual trade of light automotive and heavy diesel. He completed both within five years and now continues to upskill within his role while being identified as an outstanding employee. Through his employment, Jason is a mentor for apprentices, workshop foreman and senior technician, and assists the Adelaide Hills area through RAA Roadside Service.
Emma O’Loughlin (she/her) grew up in and lives on Nukunu Country in regional South Australia. She is a proud member of the LGBTIQA+ community who has lived experience of mental ill health, personality disorder, suicidality and physical disability. Emma utilises her lived experience as a training and group facilitator, in community engagement work and as a peer worker. Emma is Project Manager for Queer Minds Matter which is a unique and innovative mental health awareness program for LGBTIQA+ people.
Bridget Johns (she/her) is an Organisation Expert and founder of Be Simply Free, a professional organising and grant writing business. She brings her 16 years in Government project management and her love of organising together to support women to simplify their lives by creating systems in their lives to ease the “mental load” and reduce the physical and emotional clutter in their homes, calendars and minds.
As a grant writer, she uses her organisation skills to help businesses, councils and community groups organise their wish lists of dreams into fundable projects and has generated $4.5 million worth of grant funding in the last 18 months to turn these ideas into reality.
Finalists who are contributing to local, national, or international communities through the course of their employment or on a voluntary basis. Finalists must demonstrate a significant effort for the improvement of the greater community and commitment to positive change.
Eni Mosel (she/her) is a furniture business owner in Indonesia and also works as an interpreter for Bahasa Indonesia and Patient Assistant Officer under SA Health. She is the President and initiator of the grassroots-community organisation Indopeduli Adelaide Incorporated, with the mission of providing appropriate humanitarian assistance to Indonesian women and people in need, whether in Australia or Indonesia. She used her knowledge from her Certificate IV in Women’s Advocacy to extend her service. The organisation managed to self-fund more than $50,000 during the Adelaide lockdown to provide support to the community in Australia and Indonesia.
Stefan Dimasi (he/him) is passionate about creating appetizing dishes for vulnerable people in South Australia. He is the proud executive chef at Nonna's Cucina. Nonna’s Cucina is a not-for-profit community service, which provides over 1500 meals weekly to the aged, vulnerable and people with disabilities. Stefan specialises in creating texture modified and nutritionally balanced meals for our community to enjoy while also keeping traditional cultural recipes alive. Stefan enjoys the opportunity to give back to others and work with wonderful volunteers in the kitchen, including his very own Nonna Maria, who has handed down traditional family recipes. With over 20 years’ experience in highly acclaimed South Australian restaurants, Stefan passes on his expertise and knowledge by training and mentoring the next generation of chefs with his heart and soul.
Memoona Rafique Chaudry (she/her) holds overseas qualifications in Clinical Psychology and Project Management. After completing the Multicultural Women's Leadership course at TAFE SA, she began a role at Relationships Australia SA, where she works now in management. She is the Manager for PEACE Multicultural Services and MOSAIC Services, managing state-wide programs in blood borne viruses, gambling, mental health and family & domestic violence. Along with leadership, she is a clinical practitioner in Counselling.
Bianca Anderson (she/her) is a Therapeutic Support Worker at St Vincent De Paul Women’s Crisis Centre. Bianca has been working within the community service sector for the past year, and volunteering with the Women’s Information Service, where she was part of a team that opened the ‘Hub in Gawler,’ a safe space for women experiencing family and domestic violence. Bianca is the case manager for the new Open Door program, which supports people who are at risk of becoming homeless, at St Vincent De Paul.
Finalists who are pursuing their passion to make a lasting impact on the culture or economy of South Australia.
Mark Simmonds (he/him) is the Managing Director of Simmonds Heating & Cooling, and winner of ‘Contractor of the Year’ at the 2019 Climate Control News Awards. Mark grew his business from the ground up, from beginning as a sole trader to now having a team of over 35 people including tradesmen, apprentices, engineers and office staff. Mark prides himself on creating a culture that promotes consistency, growth, and teamwork whilst also maintaining a workplace that allows apprentices and staff to learn and develop their skills to excel in the HVAC industry.
Gregory (Greg) Cameron (he/him) is a passionate coach, and a founder of his own business ‘Speed Sport and Fitness’ since 2021. He attained his Certificate III in Fitness at age 65, was re-accredited as a Level 3 Coach by Athletics Australia, and is now growing his business with a vision to provide a service where multiple coaches can work together to provide high-level coaching and fitness activities for all abilities. Greg has entered into a contract with Athletics Australia for their School Sports program and was appointed as State Coach for the Special Olympics Athletics Team for the National Games in October 2022.
Stella Braund (she/her) is an advocate for people living with mental ill-health and disabilities on a state and national level. She provides advice regarding Mental Health policy, planning and safety to the Office of the Chief Psychiatrist and holds positions on an array of committees and boards for SA Health. Stella is committed to working with disadvantaged and vulnerable communities and is dedicated to building a state-wide approach to support people living with mental ill health and disabilities, to access appropriate services and opportunities to live fulfilling lives.
Malcolm Berce (he/him) completed Permaculture Design in Costa Rica, and came home to Adelaide to complete the Diploma of Horticulture and a Diploma of Landscape Design at TAFE SA. In 2020, he founded Desert Flower Landscaping which now employs six construction workers and one in-house designer. Malcolm is on the board of the Master Landscapers South Australia Association, and is passionate about sustainability and ethical landscaping choices.
Finalists who are supporting students, industry peers, and other community members through creating employment pathways, mentoring, sharing, leading, or inspiring.
Grzegorz (Greg) Buski (he/him) is a community focused Dental Technician who provides prosthesis of a complex nature and works with Specialist Clinicians of the highest calibre. He mentors and guides placement Dental Technology and Bachelor of Dental Science students, providing students with practical training to improve patient health and wellbeing. Grzegorz is a member of the TAFE SA Dental Technology Course Advisory Group, where he provides valuable insight into the new and emerging technologies being used in government dental laboratories and current employment trends for new graduates in the public sector.
Kristy-Lee Freeman (she/her) is an allied health assistant working as a multi-disciplinarian across various Northern Adelaide Local Health Network (NALHN) SA Health sites in intermediate care services, children & families department and occupational therapy department. Kristy-Lee is deeply invested in cultural safety and inclusivity for First Nations People and culturally and linguistically diverse communities.
Wendy Lewis Baida (she/her) works in the home care sector as a Quality and Compliance Coordinator for My Care Solution as well as a Master Trainer in Mental Health First Aid for Mental Health Partners. Her work includes educating to reduce the stigma around mental health in Australia and supporting older Australians to get the best quality care in their homes. Wendy has had a diverse education and working life experience, having worked as an Executive Chef for Qantas, Chief Food Services Manager for SA Health, Registered Nurse and her own business supporting other organisations.
Finalists who are recognised by their employers and peers as showing outstanding work ethic, diligence, and drive, and making a positive impact on their place of employment.
Aimee Pope (she/her) is the head baker at The Red Mill Bakehouse in Hectorville. Throughout her studies and apprenticeship, Aimee was awarded for her skills and knowledge (Best School Based Apprentice, Excellence in Baking Apprentice Baker of the Year, Runner Up in Excellence in Baking National Awards), and has been recognised by her educators as an exceptionally committed and enthusiastic apprentice. She visits schools to promote the baking industry, provides demonstrations and mentors others via the Excellence in Baking program, and has moved from school-based apprentice to head baker in only four years.
Sakina Qambari (she/her) is a year 11 student attending Renmark High School. She was winner of the SA Training Awards for the ‘Certificate III Hospitality School Based Trainee of the Year,’ and Runner Up in the Rotary Awards in the category ‘Certificate III Hospitality School Based Trainee of the Year.’ Sakina has been recognised by her educators as an extraordinary staff member, and a passionate, diligent, and determined young woman who works hard to achieve her goals. Sakina migrated to Australia at the age of five. She undertook a traineeship at the Renmark Club and completed her Certificate III in Hospitality through TAFE SA.
Angie D’Amato (she/her) is a Community Centre Support Officer with the City of West Torrens, and continues to work in a freelance capacity to support events across South Australia. Prior to this role, Angie was a recognised and committed events manager for diverse functions, from fashion parades to live music shows. During her time with the Local Government Association of SA, Angie coordinated conferences for all 68 SA local government councils, delivered effective coordination and support during the COVID-19 pandemic, and connected with the local community through the council’s community centres.
James William Mangnoson (he/him) is a Program Manager for Mission Australia, managing three teams and working with a number of schools to provide the Flexible Learning Options (FLO) program. Over the past six years, James has built his career at Mission Australia, beginning as a case worker, a team leader, and now a program manager. He is passionate about supporting youth who are at a disadvantage or require mental health support through his own lived experience.
Finalists who studied at TAFE SA on an international student visa and are now making an outstanding impact in their chosen careers and industries.
Chia-Hao Lee (he/him) arrived in Australia from Taiwan, where he was working as an accountant. In his mid-30s, he took a risk to pursue his dreams and completed a Certificate in Commercial Cookery through TAFE SA. He is now a Cookery Trainer and Chef, with experience working as a chef in prestigious South Australian restaurants, including the Restaurant Botanic, Aurora, and Press Food and Wine. He has worked at national events such as Tasting Australia, and cooked alongside SA icon Maggie Beer, as well as well-known chefs Darren Robertson and Emma McCaskill.
Ankit Sondhi (he/him) is a proactive, energetic and enthusiastic Senior Portfolio Program Engineer for the Department of Infrastructure and Transport. Ankit has project managed various multi-million-dollar capital road infrastructure projects across South Australia, including complex, ambitious road upgrades to support the opening of new state schools. Ankit is an avid supporter of multiculturalism, and provides guidance, support and mentoring to TAFE SA international students to ensure they feel welcome and included in the community.
Marcelyne Patsanza (she/her) works for the Royal Flying Doctor Service as a Dental Hygienist providing treatment in rural and remote South Australia and Aboriginal Communities in the Northern Territory. She has served as the National Editor for the Dental Hygienists Association of Australia and is currently on the South Australian Committee. Marcelyne is completing a Bachelor in Psychology as she wishes to use her career to help patients with dental anxiety and phobias. She is also setting up a fully funded annual tuition award in schools in her home country in Africa, to inspire and provide opportunities for students.
Finalists who are significantly enhancing the culture, economy, and community spirit of the City of Adelaide.
Bhu Chung (he/him) is the Head Trainer and Assessor at the Adelaide Institute of Hospitality, offering hands-on learning and career pathways within South Australia’s hospitality industry. At the age of 14, he left his country of birth, Tibet, to join the Dalai Lama in exile in India and then went on to complete a Bachelor Degree in Political Science at Delhi University. He changed careers after arriving in Australia, and is now sharing his passion for food with his students and helping to teach the next generation. In 2019, he attended full-time study in one of the Michelin star schools in France as part of his professional development, and in 2022, Bhu was awarded VET Teacher/Trainer of Year at the South Australian Training Awards. He is currently a finalist in the VET Teacher/Trainer of Year category at the Australian Training Awards.
Kidaan Zelleke (she/her) graduated from the Adelaide College of the Arts in 2018. She has performed, directed, and produced in local independent theatre including Good Theatre Company's acclaimed 'Hamlet in the Other Room', as part of the RUMPUS 2021 season. Kidaan has most recently made her main stage debut with State Theatre Company of South Australia's Antigone. She is a member of RUMPUS theatre, where she sits on the Governance and Membership Committee, and has worked with ActNow Theatre, a South Australian theatre company that tailors socially conscious performance projects.
Nominees who have demonstrated a high level of tenacity and determination in overcoming adverse circumstances.
Tayla Carll (she/her), 20, is a career-driven and high-achieving young woman in the trade sector. She completed her engineering fabrication apprenticeship and is furthering her study with a Diploma of Technical Engineering at TAFE SA. She has specialised in the metals and engineering field, and her enthusiastic attitude and determination have contributed to her recently starting as a National Estimator at Stratco.
Shannon Nattrass (she/her) is currently employed with two jobs in the community services sector, working at Tanunda Lutheran Nursing Home and caring for a person living with disability. She loves her work and is passionate about helping others. Prior to studying at TAFE SA, Shannon struggled with confidence, and is grateful for the opportunities she’s had since to achieve her goals. Shannon has been recognised by her peers as being a proactive, caring, and kind-hearted community services worker.
Rebecca Merry (she/her) has proudly overcome incredible adversities to secure a role within Relationships Australia South Australia, where she helps to support and guide families with child protection concerns. Rebecca has been an integral member of a team establishing and implementing a new program that addresses child safety concerns to ensure children live and grow in a safe and nurturing environment and to prevent children being removed from their families. After having her own children removed, then returned to her care due to sheer resilience and strength, Rebecca carries a lifetime of lived experience within the child protection system. Most importantly, Rebecca is passionate about not being defined by her lived experience but developing her own professional identity that acknowledges her skills, abilities, and strengths.
Freecall 1800 882 661