Trainee Kayla Reidy (L) talks with her Mentor, Evan Henry (R) after the Victorian Training Awards in August 2016.
How did you find the experience of being a finalist in the 2016 Victorian Training Awards?
The whole experience of been a finalist in the Victorian Trainee of the Year Award right from being nominated right through to the final stages was a life-changing experience. It has opened up many opportunities for myself and future pathways, and given me an experience that will be spoken about for years to come. Been a finalist in the top four has been most rewarding for myself and my career pathway. It is nice to have my work ethics and determination shown through such an award.
How was the build up to the day/night and your emotions throughout the day/night?
There was a lot of focus leading up to the awards night that involved meeting deadlines and having a strong focused mind set to meet the expectation required. The build-up was overwhelming at time, as there was a lot of input required from my end, creating an extra workload whilst still completing my traineeship. So ensuring I managed my time and being organised was crucial to the build-up. On the night it was nice to just relax and have everything done for you. After completing all the work required in the build-up, it was a sense of relief to know that I had made it that far and the outcome didn’t matter. I was happy about how far I had already come and my achievements in getting there.
You appear very close to your Mum and Dad.
How was it having them there on the night?
I have a very strong relationship with my parents. Having them both there on the night was just a heart-warming feeling. The love and support my parents have shown since commencing my traineeship is the reason I am able to always challenge and push myself and I think that is half the reason I have constantly been able to develop in my career. Knowing they were in the crowd watching me and looking at how far I have come gave me a sense of accomplishment. My parents have stood beside me in all my career decisions and to stand up on a stage and present myself as I did in front of a large crowd makes me even prouder. I felt I had made my parents proud no matter the outcome.
You’re into your second traineeship with Victorian State Government.
What advice would you give someone stepping into a traineeship for the first time ?
Don’t be scared, a traineeship is a very successful pathway to an ongoing, successful career. It will open up many opportunities you would never have thought were possible. Always take the initiative to put your hand up for new challenges, you are just as equal as anyone else in your workplace. You are the future of the organisation and you are a valuable asset to anyone.
What are your career goals over the next two to three years?
In two to three years’ time, I hope to have a clear direction of a specific study program to build on my existing skills and knowledge already gained through my traineeship. I would love to stay In the government sector, as it has opened up many opportunities in leadership roles and showing off my ability to work in a team environment.
