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International student heats up the kitchen with extensive skills

Estimated reading time: 2 minutes

Brazilian international student Natalia Orilio has won the International Student of the Year award at South Metropolitan TAFE (SM TAFE).

Natalia who came to Australia from Canada after eight months of learning English, claimed the coveted prize after completing a Certificate III(opens in a new tab) and IV in Commercial Cookery(opens in a new tab) and a Diploma of Hospitality Management at SM TAFE.

SM TAFE’s Student Awards recognise the achievements of students from across the college, including winners in the categories Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student of the Year, Apprentice of the Year, Trainee of the Year, Vocational Student of the Year, VET Secondary Student of the Year, and the Culturally Diverse Student of the Year Award.

Due to her Brazilian heritage she has a love of sharing food with family and friends, discovering a passion for communicating with people through food. She hopes to introduce the flavours of her homeland to Australia through her cooking.

After being nominated for a chef de partie’ role at Rockpool Bar and Grill, Natalia has had a chance to focus on her other passion for pastry and developing her career even further.

“My goal now is to learn more about pastry and to improve my skills. I want to grow in my career as a chef, sharing my knowledge with my co-workers and learning even more. My dream is to become a very complete chef,” Natalia said.

Natalia was full of praise for her course and lecturers.

“All the lecturers have had incredible careers. SM TAFE opens doors for those who are just starting out in the industry but also those who are already in it,” she said.

SM TAFE Director of Strategic Partnerships and panel chair Kim Wood said Natalia’s enthusiasm and proactive approach to learning made her a worthy recipient of the award.  

“Natalia possesses a drive to continually strive for excellence. She regularly volunteers to coordinate class activities and assist peers. Natalia hopes to complete a course in patisserie as she works towards her career goals,” he said.

SM TAFE offers a range of hospitality courses in baking, patisserie, commercial cookery, tourism and events.