When SuniTAFE graduate Saroj Khadka first commenced his business studies traineeship, he admits he had no skills in his chosen field.  

Fast forward 12 months, he now has a nationally recognised qualification, a fulfilling job in a local organisation, and has been named a finalist for Trainee of the Year at the Victorian Training Awards.  

Saroj first moved to Australia from Nepal in 2019, where he worked in the retail industry for several years. 

Inspired by his wife’s stories about being a nurse and serving her community, Saroj decided it was time to find a career that would make a difference in the lives of others, which led him to his traineeship working with Mildura Rural City Council.  

“I’m very proud to be a part of a workplace that services the community,” he said. 

“I get to help out with projects like running community events and citizenship ceremonies or with grants that are being offered by Council, these make a real impact on the community. 

“Australia has become a second home to me and I’m very much proud of contributing to it in my own way.” 

Receiving recognition at the Victorian Training Awards has been a welcomed surprise for Saroj and his support network.  

“It feels incredibly rewarding and humbling to be a finalist, and being recognised at this level makes me feel really proud of myself and how far I have come,” he said.  

“It’s not just a reflection of my own effort, but also the support that I received from my workplace Mildura Rural City Council, the training provider SuniTAFE, SMGT, and my teachers, family, and friends as well. 

“This recognition has motivated me even more to continue learning and growing and contributing to my community and my workplace.” 

Saroj reflects that his time spent studying with SuniTAFE has set him up for success in his career.  

“Studying at SuniTAFE has been a great experience,” Saroj said.  

“They have provided me with everything I needed for this traineeship, and I would say I was lucky to have the best teacher I’ve ever had, Eleanor Etherington, whose passion for her work is truly inspiring.  

“I was also very lucky to have Ashlee Mullins as my supervisor at Mildura Rural City Council because she gave me ongoing guidance and support throughout this journey.” 

Looking to the future, Saroj aspires to continue to grow in his chosen field, but feels comfortable learning right where he is for the moment.  

“I do have an interest in studying more one day, but in the meantime, I want to collect more experience in my workplace and learn as much as I can,” he said.  

“In the future, I’d love to get a role as an executive assistant or a senior role in human resources. 

“I love what I’m doing right now, but I am excited to one day broaden my career within a professional office environment.”  

Saroj will attend the Victorian Training Awards gala in September, with his wife Pravisha, his son Evan, and representatives from SuniTAFE.  

“I’m looking forward to the atmosphere of the night, the energy, because this is not like anything I’ve done before,” he said.  

“The gala sounds like a great chance to acknowledge all the hard work that trainees and training providers do behind the scenes. 

“Regardless of the outcome, I’m not worried about whether I’ll be winning this award or not, because this experience has already been a major highlight of my professional and personal development.”  

Saroj offers his sincere gratitude to everyone who has supported him during his educational journey, including his wife and family, Mildura Rural City Council, SMGT, and SuniTAFE.  

If you would like to read more about the Victorian Training Awards and SuniTAFE’s three student finalists, click here.