Victorian School-based Apprentice of the Year
Melinda Stephens
Mansfield student Melinda Stephens won the 2008 Victorian School-based Apprentice of the Year. Melinda pursued her passion for fashion by undertaking an Australian School-based Apprenticeship with Mansfield designer Jenni Duncombe.In addition to this hands-on exposure to the clothing production industry, Melinda also completed a Certificate III in Clothing Production through RMIT University (TAFE Division) while studying at Mansfield Secondary College.
Melinda was a highly motivated and enthusiastic role model, mentoring younger students as a peer leader at her school. She has also been responsible for all aspects of a successful fashion show fundraiser, with other school and community organisations seeking her support for other fundraising events.
The experience of the Victorian Training Awards was a positive one for Melinda and she recommends School-based Apprentices to apply.
“The whole experience has been wonderful and it has opened a lot of doors for me. The highlights were in meeting great people who have amazing stories, the chance to tell people about my passion for my industry and to have the opportunity to promote and create more awareness about School-based Apprenticeships,” said Melinda.
“My advice to anyone applying is simply be confident and make sure that your passion shines through. You need to be passionate about the training system, your industry and understand the importance of skills training in Australia.”
Melinda went on to win at the national Australian Training Awards, becoming the 2008 Stella-Axarlis Australian School-based Apprentice of the Year.