GOTAFE graduate and Ukrainian refugee nominated for award
After recently graduating from GOTAFE, Maryna Sliusar - a courageous Ukrainian refugee - has earned a nomination for the Vocational Student of the Year award at the Victorian Training Awards.
Maryna arrived in Australia in May 2022 with her young son, fleeing the devastation of the war in Ukraine.
Arriving in Australia with little grasp of the English language and few resources, she enrolled in English courses at GOTAFE in Shepparton, quickly progressing from Certificate I to Certificate III.
“I’ve become more capable, independent, and connected to my community,” she said.
Now Maryna is working at SPC in Shepparton and pursuing further studies in workplace health and safety at Swinburne University, with a clear goal: to re-establish her career and contribute to safer workplaces across Australia.
The Victorian Training Awards recognise and honour achievements across the TAFE and training sector, with over 14 categories open to nominations.
Finalists are chosen by a panel of judges in June and attend an awards gala in September.
Maryna is among several staff and students who have been nominated by GOTAFE in this year’s Victorian Training Awards.
Outside of the classroom Maryna is active in the Ukrainian community, helping newly arrived families access education and support services.
She shares her experiences to help others navigate the challenges of resettlement and embrace learning as a pathway to independence.
For many students, including Maryna, graduating and completing a course means more than just the end of their studies.
“Education has become a powerful tool in my journey toward integration, independence, and professional growth,” Maryna said.
Ahead of Refugee Week (15 – 21 June), Maryna's journey - from war-stricken Ukraine to the classrooms of GOTAFE - is a message of hope.
“(If) I can help even one person believe in themselves and take that first step into education, it will all be worth it,” she said.