This award recognises an outstanding student’s achievement in a course of study leading to a nationally vocational qualification.
Meet the finalists in the Vocational Student of the Year category for the 2026 South Australian Training Awards – what a committed group of individuals!
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After beginning her journey in a family gardening business, Emily Stone transformed her passion for plants into a career.
Gardening and a flair for design led Emily to study landscape design at TAFE SA. From there, helping clients reimagine their outdoor spaces was a natural progression.
A lecturer identified Emily’s potential as a teacher and she is now balancing her Diploma of Landscape Design with a Certificate IV in Training and Assessment, while working as an instructor at TAFE SA and in her family business.
By sharing her skills through teaching and mentoring others, Emily is bridging the gap between practical industry experience and education, while demonstrating her commitment to lifelong learning.
With a strong focus on empowering learners, Emily represents the impact of vocational education in supporting career transitions and creating new opportunities at any stage of life.
Animals and their care have been a driving force in Mia Brown’s life for as long as she can remember.
Having spent her childhood volunteering at nature centres and farms, she is now progressing closer to her lifelong goal of becoming a veterinarian while completing Year 12 at Urrbrae Agricultural High School and a Certificate III in Animal Care and Husbandry.
Through her studies, Mia has developed strong practical skills in animal care, medical procedures and husbandry, gaining confidence in both hands-on and clinical environments.
A highly engaged student, Mia has demonstrated leadership through school initiatives, community involvement and public engagement, supported by strong communication and teamwork skills.
Her training has strengthened her ability to care for animals with empathy and professionalism, while reinforcing her commitment to a future in the veterinary field.
With dedication, compassion and a drive to succeed, Mia represents the next generation of skilled professionals in animal care and agriculture.
From the moment she discovered the V8 Supercars Championship at 12 years of age, Rose Kemp has been driven by a clear ambition to build a career in motorsport.
Completing a Certificate II in Automotive Servicing Technology while in Year 12 at Immanuel College is a natural progression for Rose, who has taken a proactive approach to her own training – securing industry placements and building networks within the automotive sector.
Her hands-on learning has developed strong mechanical skills and confidence, enabling her to excel in practical environments and workplace settings.
Rose demonstrates a can-do attitude, a strong work ethic and an aptitude for technical aspects of her trade. These plus her respect for her trade, are firing the pursuit of her long-term dream of working as lead mechanic on an international motorsport team.
As an advocate for women in motorsport, she is committed to inspiring others to pursue careers in traditionally male-dominated industries.
Shylie Mason has a keen interest in understanding how early experiences shape children’s emotional wellbeing and how educators can best support children who may need additional guidance and care.
This passion underpins Shylie’s studies as a Year 12 student completing a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care. Through her training and placement in Mannum, she has developed strong communication, empathy and inclusive practice skills while building the foundations for a career dedicated to supporting children and families.
Shylie’s commitment to personal growth is reflected in her leadership, community involvement and volunteer work. She is recognised for her professionalism, initiative and ability to build positive relationships with children, families and educators.
Motivated by a desire to further her studies in mental health and social work, Shylie is passionate about creating positive change in young lives. Her journey demonstrates the power of vocational education to develop capable, compassionate and community-minded future professionals.
Since arriving in Australia as a migrant, Zabibu Jamali Irakoze has displayed resilience, by overcoming language and cultural barriers to complete a Certificate III in Individual Support, building a pathway into the aged care and healthcare sectors.
Zabibu was inspired by her desire to help others live with dignity and independence – and through her training with the Australian Nursing & Midwifery Federation (SA Branch), she has gained practical hands-on skills in supporting older people by providing safe, respectful and compassionate care.
She has achieved academic success through her Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing) and extensive work placements have helped her develop strong communication skills.
Recognised for her achievements and leadership, Zabibu actively promotes vocational pathways and inspires others from diverse backgrounds to pursue meaningful careers.
Her determination, empathy and commitment position her as a strong future leader in South Australia’s healthcare workforce.