Events management student wins MEA scholarship

Former Wodonga TAFE student Melanie Simpson is ready to take on the world after being awarded the Victorian Youth Scholarship for Meeting and Events Australia (MEA) in late 2009.

The 19-year-old Diploma of Events graduate was nominated for the award by teacher Tracey Holley, who is ecstatic with the outcome.

“We are just so proud to see one of our regional students compete and win against a range of University and TAFE students from the Victorian metropolitan area. It is a huge achievement for Mel,” said Mrs Holley.

Mrs Holley also said that the support of the local community is a great contributor to the success of events students such as Mel.  “Local government and business allow the students to participate in fantastic voluntary, hands-on work experience as part of their learning.”

A very excited Melanie said, “I was very surprised when I heard that I had won the scholarship, especially when I saw the competition that I was up against. My family and friends are so proud of me and are wishing me the best of luck.”

MEA is a national not-for-profit organization that aims to ensure excellence in all aspects of meetings and events by offering professional development programs, accreditation and recognition for its members.  MEA also represents the event industry to government.

Melanie is looking forward to commencing her scholarship, which will allow her to attend the MEA conference in Melbourne, networking events and also meet some key industry contacts. 

 Melanie will enter a mentoring program where she will be mentored by MEA professionals and will also be a guest speaker for MEA youth at the upcoming conference. She also plans to move to Melbourne soon to work in the events industry.

Wodonga TAFE has several nationally recognised courses in events. These courses offered in 2010 include Certificate III, Diploma and Advanced Diploma in Events and can be studied part-time or full-time.