All eyes will be on Shanghai this week as two talented young South Australians represent the nation at the world’s biggest skills competition.
Third-year apprentice painter and decorator Jemma Glatz and TAFE SA graphic design graduate Emilie Flavel will compete at WorldSkills Shanghai 2026, as part of the Australian ‘Skillaroos’ team.
Jemma and Emilie underwent a two-year selection process to become Skillaroos, impressing at regional competitions in 2024 and the national event in Brisbane last year.
Participating in WorldSkills has been a highlight of Jemma’s training: “It’s helped my skills so I can produce better finishes, and I’m more confident in the work I produce.”
“It would be amazing to win, but I don’t mind where I place in the competition. I just want to produce a good finish that reflects the amount of time I’ve spent training and proves if you put in the hard work, it pays off", Jemma said.
Jemma and Emilie will be part of the 37-strong Skillaroos team which will compete across 33 skills, demonstrating technical and vocational excellence, while supported by up to 100 supporters cheering on the green and gold.
Three South Australian experts will travel with the Skillaroos squad – TAFE SA lecturers Steven Baliga, who mentors Jemma, and Ryan Grieger, along with PEER trainer and assessor Paul Gadaleta.
South Australian Minister for Education, Training and Skills Hon Lucy Hood MP and Commissioner Cameron Baker, Chair of the South Australian Skills Commission, will support the Jemma and Emilie among other Skillaroos, engage with WorldSkills delegates and attend the WorldSkills Expo and WorldSkills Conference while in Shanghai.
“WorldSkills Shanghai 2026 is the culmination of a two-year journey for Jemma Glatz and Emilie Flavel, who have already worked incredibly hard and excelled in their chosen skills at a national level,” Commissioner Baker said.
“The South Australian Skills Commission is proud to have supported the competitors and the growth of WorldSkills participation in South Australia ahead of Adelaide hosting the WorldSkills National Championships in June 2027.
“WorldSkills competitions elevate the standing of vocational education and training and provide competitors with the chance to work alongside their peers on the world stage.”
WorldSkills Shanghai 2026 runs from 22 to 27 September bringing together 1,400 young skilled competitors from more than 70 countries and regions.
More about South Australia’s Skillaroo members is available here.
Read the full announcement
Posted 18/09/2026