Rhianyn Camilleri, Montmorency Secondary College
Rhianyn balanced her studies with substantial contributions to community leadership at school. This included significant roles in student council and school and community projects, in which she consistently demonstrated resilience and strong employability skills.
Rhianyn led the innovative ‘Warm Hearts for Mental Health’ coffee van project, which aimed to address mental health awareness. Her initiative transformed a simple idea into a lasting community asset and set a high standard for future student-led projects.
Rhianyn’s leadership extended throughout the school year as she effectively utilised her roles in the Student Representative Council to enhance school events and activities. Her participation as a leader on school leadership days and her mentorship of younger students highlighted her dedication to fostering a nurturing and inclusive school environment. Additionally, Rhianyn was an active participant in the Senior Girls Football team, showcasing her versatility and team spirit.
Rhianyn’s work in the community was equally impactful. Her involvement in the community coffee van project led to significant enhancements in local mental health resources, making a positive difference in the lives of many. Rhianyn’s ability to manage this project while maintaining her other studies and her roles in extracurricular activities exemplifies her exceptional organisational skills and her drive to make a meaningful impact.
Rhianyn’s dedication and achievements have set a high standard for her peers and left a legacy for future VCE Vocational Major students, embodying the spirit of leadership and community service.
Annameike Cozens, Emmanuel College Warrnambool
Annameike was an exemplary youth leader in the agricultural industry, coordinating immersive industry projects and impactful community initiatives, while completing her VCE Vocational Major studies.
Annameike's significant program achievements include orchestrating tours and industry days, notably with Monk and Sons, and organising a Women in Trades Conference, highlighting her commitment to empowering young females in the agricultural industry. Her commitment to leadership and community involvement also extended to organising blood donation drives.
Annameike was instrumental in setting up network opportunities that connect students with industry professionals, including a collaboration with the Women in Dairy Expo. Her efforts enriched the learning experience for all participants.
Annameike undertook Certificates II in Agricultural Studies and Animal Studies and secured a veterinary nursing position during her VCE studies; combining excellence in her studies, critical thinking and leadership skills to deliver initiatives that greatly enriched her school and local community.
Harry Graafsma, Marist-Sion College
Harry exemplified exceptional leadership and innovation throughout his VCE Vocational Major. His standout project, the Breakkie Bar, served as a practical application of his vocational studies and created a central hub for community interaction and student well-being on campus. His ability to conceptualise, plan, and execute this project, while securing unanimous peer support, highlights his adeptness at project management and collaborative leadership.
Beyond the confines of school projects, Harry actively pursued opportunities that aligned with his passion for aviation. He applied for internships with Qantas Airlines and expressed interest in the Royal Australian Air Force – endeavours that underscore his commitment to his career aspirations in aviation.
Additionally, Harry demonstrated entrepreneurial initiative by starting a small business in surveying, leveraging his knowledge of civil engineering and aviation. His successful acquisition of contracts with the Baw Baw and Latrobe Councils for road construction projects showcases his ability to translate theoretical knowledge into practical, impactful applications.
Harry’s involvement extended into community service, where he made significant contributions through various initiatives, further illustrating his leadership and dedication to making a difference in his community. His broad scope of activities and the depth of his engagements reflect a well-rounded individual who excels in his studies and thrives in leadership.
Jessica House, Mordialloc College
Jessica was an influential leader in her role as Curriculum Captain at Mordialloc College using the platform to champion the school’s VCE Vocational Major program.
Jessica significantly enhanced the program's visibility, spearheading the development of the VCE Vocational Major section in the Mordialloc school handbook. This essential resource outlines the VCE Vocational Major’s scope and benefits, helping to guide prospective students in their pathways decisions.
Jessica created a short informational video tailored to help students choose appropriate educational pathways. She redesigned posters and flyers, ensuring that the 2024 prospective student materials were informative and engaging. She played a pivotal role in organising the 2023 VCE Vocational Major stall at the school's presentation night, celebrating applied learning student achievements and showcasing the program's success.
Jessica actively engaged with Mordialloc College’s leadership to make sure VCE Vocational Major students were included in all school activities. Her initiatives bridged gaps between different student groups, fostering a more inclusive school environment. Through surveys and direct feedback, she was instrumental in shaping policies that enhance student life and learning conditions.
Jessica’s comprehensive approach to her role as Curriculum Captain elevated the profile of the VCE Vocational Major and highlighted her dedication to inclusion and student engagement.
Lauren Leung, Star of the Sea College
Lauren excelled in the VCE Vocational Major program. She undertook a Certificate III in Community Services and a Certificate III in Business and made an profound impact through her community involvement and leadership. Her ability to balance the demands of her studies with extensive community service is a testament to her dedication and organisational skills.
Lauren was an active member of the First Nations and Friends Club and regularly visited the Presentation Sisters and Vasey RSL Care as part of her Duke of Edinburgh program. These visits enhanced the lives of the elderly and residents significantly, bringing them joy and companionship. Her participation in these programs exemplifies her commitment to community service and her ability to make meaningful connections with diverse groups.
Lauren collaborated with the MacKillop School in Caulfield and St James Primary through her Personal Development Skills projects. These collaborations aimed to reach broader community segments, particularly focusing on educational and developmental activities for younger students. As a member of the Bayside Youth Ambassador Club, Lauren represented her peers at various community functions, advocating for youth interests and contributing to discussions that shaped community policies and programs.
Lauren's commitment to serving those in need is also evident in her volunteer work with organisations like the Little Mission and Sacred Heart Mission in St. Kilda, where she helped provide meals and support to individuals experiencing homelessness and hardship. This direct service provided essential resources to those in need and fostered a spirit of empathy and unity within her community.
Lauren's extensive involvement in community service, coupled with her advocacy for diversity and inclusion, highlight her as a true community leader. Her actions have significantly enriched her school community, promoting inclusivity and support among her peers, and extending her outreach to those in need.
Penhale Nelu, Manor Lakes P-12 College
Penhale leveraged his strengths and interests to forge a promising career in the Automotive industry and become a respected youth leader in the local Pacific Islander community.
As the student leader of the Manor Lakes College Events Management Team, Penhale led several student-run businesses. He led the team to successfully obtain a Department of Families, Fairness and Housing grant to run the Manor Lakes College Youth Fest. The event gave senior school students the opportunity to learn about youth services through activities run by local community organisations including Beyond Blue, Blackdog Institute, The Wyndham Youth Resource Centre and Yellow Ladybugs. Penhale also proposed, planned and ran the inaugural Manor Lakes College Winter Sleepout to raise awareness of youth homelessness.
As a member of his school’s Pacific Islander student community, Penhale demonstrated strong leadership qualities. He represented his culture by participating in Harmony Day celebrations, performing traditional songs and dance. Penhale also mentored younger Pacific Islander students, sharing his knowledge of language and traditional dance, song and dress, while encouraging them to take pride in their cultural heritage.
Through his VCE Vocational Major, Penhale found a passion for the automotive industry. He completed a Certificate II in Automotive Vocational Preparation and undertook a structured workplace learning placement at Cummins Australia – a leading manufacturer of diesel, electric, hybrid and natural gas engines. Penhale impressed his employers at Cummins and is now completing a Diesel Automotive apprenticeship with the company.
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