Drive for success leads to awards for international students

Two automotive students originating from Mauritius have clinched Outstanding International Student Awards at Kangan Institute’s Class of 2021 International Student Graduation held virtually this week.

• Outstanding International Student – Automotive (Class Group 519): Richy (Adrien) Riaca from Mauritius
• Outstanding International Student – Automotive (Class Group 419): Sudhish Burtony from Mauritius

For 25-year-old Adrien Riaca, the award was a recognition of the hard work he’d put into building his career in automotive, a journey that began nearly 10 years ago in Mauritius.

“Back home I studied an automotive certificate III and IV and worked for seven years as a mechanic. I came to Melbourne in 2019 to grow my knowledge and I feel I’ve earned this award by working hard,” he says.

With a Diploma of Automotive Technology now in hand, Adrien applies his newly mastered skills daily within his job as an automotive technician.

“In my job back home, I was only doing mechanics. Now I’m doing both mechanics and electrics, and getting more experience,” says Adrien, who works at All Brakes & Mechanical in Werribee.

Sudhish Burtony, 21, chose to move from Mauritius to Melbourne to join family. Automotive studies was a natural progression for the self-professed auto fanatic.

“Automotive was always my passion and I feel really happy to get this award. It shows that my teachers have noticed the hard work I put into my studies and awarded me,” says Sudhish, who now works as a technician at Western Ford in Deer Park.

During the online graduation ceremony, 26 graduates across automotive, hospitality and community services fields were recognised. Graduates originate from more than15 countries across Asia, Europe, Africa, North and South America.

Kangan Institute Chief Industry Engagement and Education Delivery Officer Arron Wood AM says the ceremony was an important celebration of student success and achievement attained despite challenges arising from COVID-19 impacts over the past year.    

“Graduating is something to be very proud of, and especially so for our Class of 2021 international students, who successfully completed their studies whilst navigating the impacts of the global pandemic, both here and in their home countries,” says Mr Wood.

“These students are now armed for career success with skills, knowledge and a qualification that is valued by tertiary institutions and employers. We’re honoured to have played a part in their education and wish them the best in their next steps.”