OLIVER BROWN
YOUNG Gawler resident Isaac Solomon has been recognised for his dedication to his local traineeship and community after being named as a finalist for this year’s SA Training Awards.
The 2019 SA Training Awards finalists were revealed on July 1, with nominees covering a large variety of demographics and backgrounds.
The awards aim to recognise quality, excellence and innovation in training among educators and trainees across South Australia.
Fresh out of high school, 18-year-old Mr Solomon has been nominated for his TAFE course in government and his position as a clerical assistant in the office of Member for Light Tony Piccolo.
Mr Solomon said being selected as a finalist was a true honour for him, and was a strong indication that his hardworking attitude is being noticed.
“To me personally, I find that hard work pays off and that working in the community is an important part of everyday life,” Mr Solomon said.
“The criteria upon which this was chosen is not just about what I’ve learnt in the workplace, but how I can apply those skills in the wider community.”
Mr Solomon is already very involved with the Gawler community, including volunteering as a local coach for a youth soccer club, professional acting, and working as the deputy chair for the Gawler Youth Advisory Committee.
He said his various roles in the community stem from his multiple passions in life, but working in politics, which he hopes to make his career someday, covers all these areas.
“I’m passionate about the arts, I’m passionate about education, I’m passionate about soccer, but I think politics offers such diversity,” Mr Solomon said.
“I think a good politician should have some real life experience and some passions that they pursue.”
Mr Piccolo was impressed with Mr Solomon’s accomplishment, but wasn’t surprised considering the quality of all his past protégés.
“We’ve had really good trainees, and all of them have gone on to really good jobs after us…we actually require our trainees to do quite a high-level job in the sense that we think we stretch them,” he said.
“All our trainees have had some sort of community involvement… and I think the reason they apply for jobs here is because they get a chance to deepen that experience in community.”
Mr Solomon said regardless of the award’s outcome, he will continue his local involvement and passion for learning.
The 2019 SA Training Awards will be presented on September 6.