By Laura Michell
A Mernda student who was unable to work for six weeks following a car accident has been named as the Kangan Institute’s apprentice of the year.
Christine Dauod received the award at the TAFE’s annual Industry Excellence Awards late last month.
The hairdressing apprentice was one of 56 students recognised for their dedication to their studies.
Greenvale’s Mehmet Topalhasan was also recognised at the awards, being named Automotive Apprentice of the Year and picking up the Lionel Gell School of Instruction Award in Automotive.
Doreen’s Nathan Bowden, and Jasenka Kalenik and Ashlee Marston, both from Lalor, also picked up gold medallions in automotive, health and community and Indigenous education respectively.
Ms Dauod said her car accident helped fuel her passion for hairdressing.
“Having this time off really made me think about how much I loved being at work,” she said.
“And with the support of my educators, I was able to get back on my feet really fast and get back to work.”
Ms Dauod, who works at Joey Scandizzo Salon, said her TAFE journey began due to a love for creative, hands-on learning.
“I’m fortunate enough to be given many opportunities where I work, whether it be competitions such as [Hair and Beauty Industry Association] photo shoots, and events such as the Brownlow or working at the Melbourne Cup.”
The Kangan Institute Apprentice of the Year award is not the first time Ms Dauod has been recognised for her studies and work, having won the HBIA Apprentice of the Year award earlier this year.
