Natural leader: Kesalini Muli was house vice-captain and a music leader during her final year.
Photo by
Contributed
The inaugural awards night for Greater Shepparton Secondary College, held on Wednesday, December 14, saw Year 12 graduates Kesalini Muli and Tristan Phipps recognised for their hard work and contributions to the community.
Hold tight - we’re checking permissions before loading more content
Kesalini received several accolades for both her academic achievements and her contributions to the college and broader community.
This included the Australian Defence Force Long Tan Youth Leadership and Teamwork Award, the Shepparton Festival Senior Instrumental Award and the Ampol Best All Rounder Award.
Kesalini said she was proud of her achievements and believed the leadership roles she undertook gave her the drive to achieve what she did.
“This year I was a house vice-captain and a music leader, and I think taking on the leadership roles was what really motivated me,” she said.
Originally from Tonga, Kesalini said the community spirit in Shepparton was something she fell in love with, and she took every opportunity to get involved in community events.
“I love being involved in community events such as the Pasifika Festival, and performing and taking part in school events like Harmony Day. I’m pretty passionate about music, so I’ll help wherever I can,” she said.
Kesalini is hoping to study business or commerce at La Trobe or Deakin universities and said there was a pathway for everyone to achieve their goals.
“The best piece of advice I can give is that it’s okay to be different — just find your own way to shine,” she said.
A giving, community-minded attitude can also be found in fellow graduate Tristan Phipps, who gained his Victorian Certificate of Applied Learning and a Certificate II in Community Services.
With aspirations of becoming a youth worker, Tristan undertook work experience and placement at WDEA Works, Greater Shepparton Lighthouse Project and GMLLEN.
Tristan is also almost month into an administrative role with FamilyCare after securing a traineeship straight out of Year 12.
At the awards night, Tristan was presented with he CVGT Employment Award, which celebrates excellence in talented apprentices and employers.
Community spirit: Tristan Phipps undertook work experience and placement at WDEA Works, Greater Shepparton Lighthouse Project and GMLLEN.
Photo by
Contributed
“I’m definitely proud — it’s a great way to end Year 12,” Tristan said
College executive principal Barbara O’Brien said she was proud of both students and believed they had a bright future ahead.
“Tristan and Kesalini have been invaluable members of our college and deserve every success,” Mrs O’Brien said.
“The dedication and passion you have both shown to your studies, your peers and your community will hold you in good stead, whatever the future holds for you, and we are so proud to have you among our very first GSSC alumni.”
