TAFE NSW Ryde student, Elizabeth Mead has been recognised for her academic achievements and positive work ethic at the TAFE NSW Excellence Awards in Ryde yesterday.

Ms Mead, who completed a Diploma of Event Management at TAFE NSW Ryde in 2018, was announced as the winner of the prestigious International Student of the Year award at a gala awards ceremony at TAFE NSW Ryde.

TAFE NSW Regional General Manager, Alison Wood, commended the winners for the commitment and dedication they have shown to their studies.

“These awards recognise our most passionate, industrious and skillful students, and demonstrate the commitment of TAFE NSW to train the workforce leaders of the future when, where and how it suits them,” Ms Wood said.

“We are confident that the exciting learning opportunities we created for these winners helped them to develop the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in their career.

“TAFE NSW is proud to equip our students with practical skills and work experience so they’re ready to hit the ground running in their chosen field.

“It’s incredibly rewarding for TAFE NSW teachers to watch students like Elizabeth grow in the knowledge that the skills and talents they learn with us have the potential to transform their lives,” Ms Wood concluded.

Elizabeth, originally from the United Kingdom chose to study at TAFE NSW because of the practical hands on experience she would receive.

“I knew that if I wanted to be successful in this industry, I had to study somewhere that offered practical workplace experience, and not just learn about the theory side of things in the classroom. I’ve wanted to work in events for the last four years, as this is something that I am passionate about. I enjoy working with others and delegating tasks in order to achieve a common goal to bring people closer together.

“Thanks to TAFE NSW, I’ve been fortunate enough to work at a number of events attended by more than 10,000 people. These include The Sydney International Boat Show, Intel Extreme Masters, PAX Melbourne (eSports tournaments) and the Melbourne Esports Open. Being able to work at large scale and prestigious event in Convention Centers and Stadiums around Australia has truly been an incredible experience,” Ms Mead said.

According to her teacher, Peter Seabrook, Elizabeth’s contribution to classes have been exceptional and her enthusiasm to participate and volunteer in paid activities has added to her professional portfolio.

“Elizabeth is a true role model for all students who have a dream to succeed. Elizabeth has shown initiative in her studies helping to put class materials into context. Moving to a foreign country is a huge change and presents some challenges, which Elizabeth has tackled with flying colours. Elizabeth has attended over 25 events this year and spent almost one third of the year at events or doing event related activities. This is a testament to how committed she is to this industry,” Mr Seabrook concluded.  

Media contact: Laura Kelly, Media and Communications Business Partner, laura.kelly40@tafensw.edu.au, mobile: 0411 777 676