A TAFE Queensland scholarship recipient with a passion for conservation has been recognised for her dedication to her studies and to her chosen industry.
Alexandra Hayes-Hatten claimed the Vocational Student of the Year award at the Queensland Training Awards North Coast regional final.
The 24-year-old started vocational education and training in 2022, undertaking a Certificate I in Conservation and Ecosystem Management, with her now employer ECOllaboration, a local organisation that provides professional support in ecological and environmental services, environmental education, stakeholder liaison and community development.
“I was working in pest management but I’ve always loved native Australian flowers and wanted to break into conservation,” she said.
“So when I saw the ECOllaboration’s Facebook ad for the program, I applied and got the position.
“I had an amazing supervisor who was deeply passionate about conservation, and she inspired me to follow a similar path. And now I’m supervising the same program I started in: it’s a real full-circle moment.”
She enrolled in Diploma of Conservation and Ecosystem Management and balanced her studies with work as a full-time bush regenerator at ECOllaboration.
“I really enjoyed being around like-minded people that wanted to pursue local conservation and learn about flora and fauna, as well as the industry connections we were able to make during the course,” she said.
“It really helped me develop the skills I needed to be able to do what I’d doing now.”
During her studies she was successful in applying for a scholarship, receiving $5000 to put towards her education.
“I was so happy when they told me I was a recipient: it really reinforced everything I’ve done and gave me that validation that I am deserving of recognition for my hard work,” she said.
She then decided to submit a nomination for Vocational Student of the Year.
It was a decision that paid off, with the regional winner progressing to the state final in September.
“I’m dyslexic, so this proves that you can overcome barriers that you think may hold you back,” she said.
“I want to be a role model and leader for others who may be feeling lost, and show them what they can do if they set their mind to it.
“I love what I do. Having an on-ground impact and restoring the environment is so empowering.
“To clear weeds that are one day choking a tree, then come back in the years after to see birds living in it, it’s really fulfilling.”
TAFE Queensland scholarships are open for applications until September 30.
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