Sunshine Coast locals acknowledged for their efforts

TAFE Queensland beauty teacher Narelle Crick and Diploma of Screen and Media (CUA51015) graduate Mikayo Mundy represented the region at the Queensland Training Awards on Friday 8 October 2021, after taking out the top gongs in their respective categories at the North Coast regional final in July.

Narelle and Mikayo beat all other nominees from Bundaberg to Strathpine to secure places in the state final of the awards – an incredible achievement in itself that recognises their commitment to training and the skills they have developed.

North Coast VET Trainer of the Year Narelle Crick said she was overjoyed to hear she’d won the regional final, with the passionate educator excited just to be nominated.

“There are so many amazing teachers delivering training in this region, so I feel so honoured to receive this award,” Narelle said.

Narelle started out as a student at Mooloolaba campus herself, with the already qualified hairdresser and salon owner initially undertaking a Certificate III in Beauty Services (SHB30115) and Diploma of Beauty Therapy (SHB50115) to expand her business. However, her career path changed when her trainer encouraged her to expand on her already evident mentoring skills to become a trainer as well.

A natural educator, Narelle has now spent 13 years skilling the next generation of beauty therapists as a teacher in the VET sector, with the last five years spent at TAFE Queensland’s Mooloolaba campus working alongside the very teacher that supported her through her own learning journey. Now her contribution to vocational education and training in Queensland is being recognised in the state final for the awards – but for Narelle, her role supporting others in kick starting their careers is better than any accolade.

“I love working with students and seeing them achieve their goals. For me, that’s the greatest reward possible – watching them go on to have successful careers and knowing that I’ve helped them accomplish that,” Narelle said.

North Coast Vocational Student of the Year Mikayo Mundy has also had his dedication to achieving his dream recognised. The professional wakeboarder completed a Diploma of Screen and Media (CUA51015) at TAFE Queensland’s Nambour campus in 2020, and is currently on track to complete a Bachelor of Film and Screen Media at just 18 years of age, giving him a head start on his film career.

“The diploma has opened up a lot of other opportunities for me. It’s changed my thoughts about filmmaking, and my videos have really improved from spending that extra time to work all that out,” Mikayo said.

TAFE Queensland General Manager (East Coast region) Ana Rodger said she was proud of Narelle and Mikayo's achievements.

“There is nothing more rewarding than seeing our students and teachers excel in doing what they love most,” Ms Rodger said.

“TAFE Queensland is committed to providing its students with the knowledge and practical skills they need to succeed, so when Narelle and Mikayo were selected from such an inspiring group of their peers and acknowledged on this scale for their passion, dedication, calibre, we felt their win as if it was our own.

“TAFE Queensland congratulates Narelle and Mikayo on their regional wins, and on their nominations as finalists at the Queensland Training Awards.”