Second time’s a charm for Abbey

The Victorian 7NEWS Young Achievers Awards acknowledge and celebrate the positive achievements and success of young people up to the age of 29 across Victoria.

Abbey is vying for the Kangan Institute Inspiration TAFE Student Award, which celebrates TAFE students who have triumphed over adversity to excel in their chosen field.

The Free Press spoke to a 17-year-old Abbey about her nomination; today, she’s not just one year older, she’s also one year wiser.

Since completing Year 12 before the rest of her cohort in March 2024, Abbey threw herself further into her community services studies.

She's earned Certificates II and III, and now works as a support worker while pursuing her diploma in Community Services.

Abbey's personal journey through mental health challenges as a young person inspired her to become a support worker, helping others navigate similar experiences.

But, she said her mum, who works in community services already, inspired her to pursue the career and is a champion for keeping her going.

Abbey is looking forward to completing her diploma so she can climb the community services ladder and have a shot of living independent.

The Lancaster local was nominated by her TAFE trainer Jody-Anne Tadic, who also nominated her last year.

In her nomination form, Ms Tadic championed for Abbey’s dedication to strive for excellence in her studies, using her passion for community service to project her further.

“Abbey's ability to balance academic excellence, professional adaptability, and personal growth makes her an inspirational figure to her peers and educators alike,” Ms Tadic wrote in Abbey’s nomination application.

On behalf of the Free Press, congratulations, Abbey.