Melbourne Polytechnic is proud to celebrate Kino Rafael Manalo, winner of the Outstanding Business and Construction Student of the Year 2025 award. His remarkable journey from international tourist to a successful graduate starting his Information Technology career demonstrates the power of dedication, hard work and seizing opportunities.
Kino's path to Melbourne Polytechnic began with a simple holiday visit in 2019. "I was a tourist," he recalls. "I got inspired and motivated to live here. I told my sister the next time I come here, it won't be a tourist visa." True to his word, Kino returned as a student, enrolling in the Bachelor of Information Technology.
The decision to choose Melbourne Polytechnic was both practical and strategic. Beyond offering comprehensive software development education, the institution provided quality training without compromising on standards. "It's recognised by ACS, Australian Computer Society, which is a big thing," Kino explains.
What sets Kino apart is his proactive approach to learning and community involvement. Throughout his studies during the Bachelor of Information Technology he consistently sought opportunities to contribute and grow. He participated in the Victorian Government's SummerTech LIVE initiative, representing Melbourne Polytechnic in helping startup businesses develop their digital presence.
His engagement extended beyond the classroom through roles as a project leader in capstone projects and membership in the Higher Education Course Committee. Kino also worked with Melbourne Polytechnic's Learning Environments team, developing electronic books and gaining practical experience while studying.
Kino's academic excellence in the Bachelor of Information Technology translated directly into career opportunities. Through Melbourne Polytechnic's Skills and Job Centre, he attended an Amazon Web Services (AWS) partnership event that changed his trajectory. "I went in there, was amazed by how they do their work on a daily basis. Got inspired," he says.
This inspiration led to his current role as a Data Centre Operations Technician at Amazon Web Services, where he applies the automation skills and technical knowledge gained during his studies. His smooth transition from student to industry exemplifies the practical value of Melbourne Polytechnic's Information Technology program and its career-ready focus.
When asked about his success, Kino emphasises the importance of giving your best effort. "Don't procrastinate as much as possible. Don't put in mediocre work. Just do your best," he advises future students. His approach focuses on collaborative learning rather than competition, believing that inspiring others to perform at their full potential creates a positive learning environment for everyone.
Kino's passion for automation and emerging technologies drives his continuous learning. "When I get to understand a certain topic beyond my knowledge, it's like a Eureka moment," he explains. This enthusiasm for discovery and sharing knowledge with others has been a cornerstone of his academic success.
The Outstanding Business and Construction Student of the Year award recognises not just academic achievement but also leadership, community involvement and professional growth. Kino's lecturers, including Sazia Parvin and Kiran Fahd, nominated him based on his consistent excellence, active participation and positive influence on his peers throughout the Bachelor of Information Technology.
"When you put something out there in the industry, it will be recognised," Kino reflects. "The more you put out there, the more it will flourish."
Melbourne Polytechnic congratulates Kino Rafael Manalo on this well-deserved recognition and looks forward to following his continued success in the technology industry.
All our Information Technology and Cyber Security courses combine theory with advanced practical skills, focusing on both business and tech.