How Lukas found his place, his purpose and his sense of belonging

When Lukas first arrived at Melbourne Polytechnic, he was looking for a way forward. 

After experiencing challenges throughout his schooling years, Lukas enrolled in Certificate I in Work Education 22706VIC (Ignition Theatre Stream). He hoped to build skills, gain experience and perhaps reignite his passion for the performing arts. 

What he found was something much bigger. 

At the Work Education Graduation Lukas received the Outstanding Work Education Student of the Year Award, recognised for his leadership, creativity, teamwork and positive impact on those around him. His journey is a powerful example of what can happen when talent is met with opportunity, encouragement and belonging.

A fresh start 

For more than a decade, Lukas had been involved in performing arts, participating in plays, variety shows and creative projects. Acting had always been an important part of his life, but like many young people navigating challenges, there were times when his confidence in himself and his future was shaken. 

Encouraged by his stepmother, Lukas explored new pathways and discovered Melbourne Polytechnic's Work Education program. After meeting staff and touring the campus, he decided to take a chance on something different. 

That decision changed everything. 

Within weeks, he had formed close friendships, connected with supportive teachers and found an environment where he felt welcomed and valued. 

"I've made so many friends," Lukas shares. "I'm happy that I found a home away from home." 

Learning more than workplace skills 

Throughout his studies, Lukas developed practical workplace skills, independent travel skills and confidence in collaborative environments. But perhaps his biggest growth came in the way he saw himself and others. 

Reflecting on his time at Melbourne Polytechnic, Lukas spoke about learning how to trust people, work as part of a team and appreciate different perspectives. 

Where he once felt responsible for carrying everything on his own, he learned the value of collaboration as a team, patience and listening. 

"I've learnt to trust in others and myself, and skills I thought I would never obtain," he said.  

His teachers witnessed that growth firsthand, describing a student who embraced feedback, reflected on his learning and consistently supported his classmates.

Making an impact beyond the classroom 

One of Lukas's most significant achievements was his involvement in Melbourne Polytechnic's partnership with Metro Trains. 

As a writer, performer and leader on the Inclusive Travel Project, Lukas helped develop the popular "Metro Man" safety skit and contributed to the Bunjil the Eagle Acknowledgment to Country performance. His ability to communicate important messages in an engaging, accessible and inclusive way earned praise from peers, staff and industry partners alike.  

What made the project particularly special was Lukas's commitment to ensuring everyone could contribute. 

According to his nomination, he actively encouraged quieter students to share their ideas, helped peers find roles suited to their strengths and ensured every voice was heard. His leadership was not about standing in the spotlight. It was about helping others shine.  

For Lukas, the recognition that followed was unexpected. 

"I just do my work because I think it'll be fun and I'm happy to help out," he said. 

Yet the impact was undeniable. The Metro project became widely recognised and gave Lukas the confidence to see that his efforts were making a difference. 

Taking the leap 

The confidence Lukas gained during his studies soon extended beyond the classroom. 

Drawing on the independent travel skills he developed through the Metro project, he travelled alone from Melbourne to Bacchus Marsh to audition for a local theatre company, which required five hours commuting in total for the journey.  

Not only did he successfully earn a role, but he committed to travelling more than two hours each way every week for rehearsals and performances. 

For someone who once doubted his future, it was a remarkable step. 

His teachers described this as evidence of his determination, resilience and willingness to create opportunities for himself rather than wait for them to arrive.

A positive force in every room 

Ask Lukas what contributed to his success and his answer is simple: kindness. 

He believes in treating people the way he would like to be treated. Whether supporting classmates, making new students feel welcome or helping resolve challenges within a group, he approaches people with empathy and respect. 

"Manners cost nothing," he says. 

Those small acts have left a lasting impression on the Melbourne Polytechnic community. 

His nomination notes that he has become a genuine ambassador for Melbourne Polytechnic, representing the values of inclusion, accessibility, equity and empowerment both on campus and in the wider community.

Work education and new opportunities ahead  

While Lukas is still figuring out exactly where his career will take him, he's excited about what's ahead.  Lukas is also now continuing his studies and is currently undertaking the Certificate II in Work Education 22631VIC. 

His passion for acting has returned, his confidence has grown, and he's built a strong network of mentors, friends and supporters along the way. Through his work experience, he's developed practical skills, backed himself to take on new challenges and discovered opportunities he might never have considered. 

Winning the Outstanding Work Education Student of the Year Award came as a surprise to Lukas, but for those who have seen his growth firsthand, it recognised the effort, resilience and positive attitude he brings to everything he does. 

His advice to future students is simple: 

"Don't hesitate. It's probably going to be one of the best choices you ever make. Be ready to learn something new, try your best and go beyond your limits. Even if things are stressful at first, trust me. It's all worth it in the end." 

For Lukas, Work Education wasn't just another program. It gave him the confidence to step outside his comfort zone and a clearer sense of what's possible next.