Students shortlisted for 2026 Victorian Training Awards
Two exceptional Melbourne Polytechnic students have been named finalists in the prestigious 2026 Victorian Training Awards.
The Victorian Training Awards recognise and celebrate the outstanding achievements of individuals and organisations across Victoria's TAFE and training sector. Now in its 72nd year, the awards honour the hard work and dedication of students, apprentices, trainees, teachers and training providers who contribute to vocational education and training across the state.
This year, Melbourne Polytechnic is proudly represented by:
- Sarah Hunn-Mozes, a Certificate III in Engineering (Heavy Fabrication) student, who has been shortlisted for Apprentice of the Year
- Ying Soon, a Diploma of Auslan student, who has been shortlisted for Vocational Student of the Year
Ying Soon's journey into Auslan began with curiosity.
Already fluent in three languages, Ying was fascinated by a form of communication built on movement, expression and visual connection rather than sound.
Having lived in Malaysia, Beijing and Hong Kong, she was no stranger to navigating different languages and cultures, but learning Auslan opened the door to a vibrant new community.
What began as an interest soon became a passion, leading Ying to enrol at Melbourne Polytechnic and progress through her studies. Along the way, she has become a valued source of encouragement and support for her peers, regularly helping fellow students develop their signing skills both inside and outside the classroom.
Ying's commitment to inclusion extends into her professional life. As an event floor supervisor in the hospitality industry, she confidently communicates with Deaf guests and promotes greater awareness and understanding among her colleagues. Auslan has become more than a qualification for Ying. It is now woven into every aspect of her life.
These outstanding achievements reflect not only the dedication, perseverance and talent of our students, but also the commitment of the educators who support them to build the skills and confidence to realise their potential.
When Sarah Hunn-Mozes decided to leave a career in social work and disability support to pursue fabrication, she never looked back.
Drawn to the hands-on nature of the trade and the satisfaction of seeing tangible results from her work, Sarah knew she had found her calling from the moment she completed her first weld.
Employed by the Australian Industry Group Apprentice and Trainee Centre and hosted by Convair Engineering while completing her Certificate III in Engineering – Fabrication (Welding), Sarah has demonstrated exceptional initiative throughout her apprenticeship. Entering a traditionally male-dominated industry as a mature-aged apprentice presented challenges, but with support from her supervisors and Trades Women Australia, she developed the confidence and skills to thrive.
Sarah's commitment to making a positive impact extends beyond her own learning. She has advocated for properly fitting PPE for women, taken on workplace safety responsibilities, pursued additional training opportunities and even taken up powerlifting to meet the physical demands of her role. Today, she is proud of how far she has come and excited about the future she is helping to shape within her trade.
Congratulations to Sarah and Ying on this remarkable achievement, and a huge thank you to the educators and support teams who have helped them reach this milestone.
This year’s winners will be announced at the 2026 Victorian Training Awards Gala, which will be held on Friday 18 September.