Evana Rabi, a Year 12 student at St Francis Xavier College, Florey (SFX), has been nominated for the ACT Australian School-Based Apprentice of the Year Award. The Award is presented to students undertaking Certificate II or above qualifications as a part time Australian School-based Apprentice. It recognises students’ commitment to their formal studies at school and in the workplace.

Evana is currently completing her Certificate II in Resources and Infrastructure and is an active participant in the National Association of Women in Construction’s ACT Pathways Program for Women in Construction. The program places high school students on construction sites for 12 weeks and provides them with the opportunity to work across a variety of trades including electrical, plumbing and carpentry.

“I was introduced to the Women in Construction Pathways Program through my School Careers Office and the Australian Training Company,” said Evana.

“The program has increased my networking through the various rotations I am placed in and exposes me to different sectors in the construction industry and how they work,” she said. “It also allows me to know what my strengths, challenges and interests are, and the variety of jobs will help me determine the job I would like to do.”

Evana, who dreams of being a Civil Engineer, is one of 40 students from around Canberra participating in the program. Evana said the program has helped her understand the industry and establish a clear career pathway to achieve her dream. She hopes to start a full-time apprenticeship next year.

“Once I complete my apprenticeship, I will then apply for university where I can use my experience and skills in learning and also support myself financially,” said Evana.

Evana enrolled at SFX in January 2020 after arriving in Canberra from overseas in the middle of the bushfires. She had to adjust to the Australian education system having never been to an Australian school before. The COVID-19 pandemic presented further challenges for Evana as schools switched to remote learning.

“I had not had a lot of access to technology before, so I had to learn how to interact online,” she said. “Enrolling at SFX has given me a chance to pursue my dreams. I am very lucky to have a wonderful and supportive family who are always there for me. It is because of them that I am able to balance everything.”

Evana hopes to be a positive role model for other young women hoping to enter the construction industry. She advises women who may be thinking of studying a trade to “Try the program. A short trial period is provided in the beginning for new recruits. If you love it then you continue with it.”

Catholic Education wishes Evana the best of luck for the award and also in her future endeavours.