On 16 and 17 July 2026, the Educational Pathways Program (EPP) held a two-day professional development event that brought together new Ambassadors to strengthen their skills through interactive workshops on career literacy, life skills, and resource development. As Educational Pathways VET Ambassadors gain confidence and expertise, they become essential role models, providing informal mentorship and supporting students to overcome barriers such as geographic location and limited resources.

Strengthening understanding and professional growth

Most new ambassadors completed the event with enthusiasm, deepening their understanding of EPP initiatives and professional conduct expectations. Alongside EPP Leader Shannon Mudiman, panel discussions helped students explore the program’s progress, discover pathways to promote equity in vocational education, and understand how ambassadors represent EPP professionally. Their feedback guides our future promotion of other initiatives such as Get Back in the Game.

Exploring perspectives and meaningful connections

For the first time, 5 students from current EPP schools Melville High School, Oxley High School, Uralla Central School and Northmead Creative and Performing Arts High School, joined the event, offering new insights and enhancing student engagement. Guest speakers Kirryn Zerna, Beth O’Connor and workshop leaders Vanessa Gonzalez led hands-on activities that developed collaboration, personal branding, and confidence in navigating career pathways.

Immediate impact and future planning

VET ambassadors implemented student-centred activities that increased participation and encouraged open conversations about career pathways. These activities marked a significant impact at the recent Far West event. Positive student feedback highlights growing clarity and enthusiasm for future employment pathways, particularly in regional areas.

Our new VET ambassadors continue to drive innovation and inform future program planning that supports student success and community growth.

Warm welcome to our newest VET Ambassadors:

• Esteban Cervera, alumni from Brisbane Water Secondary College (Woy Woy Campus)
• Georgia Sams, alumni from Kurri Kurri High School
• Harrison Rosta, alumni from Kanahooka High School
• Ivee Allan, from Hunter region
• Imogen Young-Maloney, from Riverina region
• Lane Williams, alumni from Ulladulla High School
• Rebecca Nissenbaum, from North Sydney region
• Thea Sheridan, from New England region
• Nicole Koprivec, from North Sydney region

Stay tuned for more updates from future engagement:

• Lane Williams and Thea Sheridan delivering a Tamworth and Armidale roadshow in Term 2.
• Esteban Cervera delivering a whole range of engagements with hospitality students in the Lake Macquarie region as they competed for title of Lake Macquarie MasterChef.
• Georgia Sams teaming up with existing VET ambassadors Kelly O’Gorman and Molly Smith to form a dream team trio of former Health Services SBATs from the Hunter New England Local Health District.