The WITH Tas Committee is impressed with the dedication Ardelia and Lakmi demonstrate to their education and the depth of their love of and commitment to our industry.
This update shows why we believe so deeply in supporting the next generation of and hospitality professionals, and the reward on so many levels for all of us.
Ardelia Hadwijaja
This year, I've been focused on various subjects, including Gap Training (Transition Plan From Commercial Cookery to Kitchen Management), managing finances within a budget, rostering staff, developing food safety programs, and preparing a wide range of dishes from vegetarian and vegan options to poultry and desserts.
My favourite subject has been the kitchen practical classes, particularly those related to producing desserts. I love the creativity and the precision required to get everything just right.
I've enjoyed the hands-on experience at Frontier Education, especially the practical kitchen sessions and the work placement, where I completed 192 hours across various meal services. Interaction with teachers and fellow students has been incredibly enriching, fostering my skills and confidence in a real-world setting.
I also had the volunteer job of cooking twice for Lady Nelson on one-day trips and also participated in boat maintenance during the winter. I'll be going on another sailing trip later this month.
In addition, I worked at the Mid-Winter Festival at Willie Smith's and Blundstone Arena for AFL matches. Recently, Willie Smith's nominated me for the Tasmanian Hospitality Association Awards for Excellence as a Hospitality Industry Rising Star, we are still waiting for the Judging Results in September 2024.
Next year, I plan to enrol in the Diploma of Hospitality Management class to further expand my knowledge and skills in the industry. I'm excited about the opportunities this will open up for my career.
Lakmi Hansika
This year I have completed a Certification IV in Kitchen Management in early 2024, where I gained expertise in leading and managing kitchen staff, rostering, and handling finance and budgets.
Currently, I am pursuing a Diploma in Hospitality Management, which I will complete by December 2024. This diploma is enhancing my skills in building business relationships, negotiation, contract generation, and customer service. These qualifications are equipping me with a comprehensive understanding of both the operational and managerial aspects of the hospitality industry.
My favourite subject is developing customer service skills because it allows me to connect with people and create positive experiences. My previous roles as a flight attendant and guest services executive taught me the importance of empathy, effective communication, and attention to detail, all of which are essential for delivering exceptional service.
I thoroughly enjoyed cooking in the well-equipped Drysdale kitchen, where I benefited from the guidance of excellent teachers.
The International Student Advisor at TasTAFE was instrumental in helping me settle into life as a new international student in Tasmania, making my first experience in Australia smooth and welcoming. Serving as an International Student Ambassador in 2023 allowed me to collaborate with GETI, the International Unit of the Tasmanian Department for Education, Children and Young People. This role provided me with the opportunity to support new international students, further enhancing my ability to assist others in their transition.
My goal in 2025 is to gain relevant experience and become an industry professional, utilising the skills I acquired through my studies at TasTAFE.
I am also grateful for the invitation to attend the DST Tasmanian Tourism Showcase, which provided me with a valuable opportunity to connect with industry professionals and experts.