Tamika Mackrell

Floristry

“WorldSkills Australia has been great for both my professional profile and my employer’s profile. It was also helped to improve my self esteem.”

Tamika did work experience as a florist whilst at school and says she “just loved it” and was hooked from the moment she began.

Tamika would recommend WorldSkills competitions to others as she believes it is great fun and with “100% commitment you get a lot out of the experience.”

In her job, Tamika most enjoys trying new and complex flower arrangements that challenge her professionally.  She also enjoys the fun working environment floristry provides.  In the short term of her career, Tamika aspires to become the best florist she can be. Tamika would also like to travel overseas in order to learn more about floristry.

In the lead up to the WorldSkills International Competition London UK Tamika is most looking forward to travelling overseas, and giving it all she has at the International Competition.

Favourite motto?
Never give up and treat others the way you would like to be treated.

In one word describe how you feel about representing Australia in London?
Thrilled!

Expert

Alan Randell -Smith

Alan runs his own floristry business in Victoria (Alan Randell-Smith Florist and Glenroy Florist) and has been Chief Judge at the last four WorldSkills Australia National Competitions in Newcastle 2002, Brisbane 2004, Melbourne 2006 and Sydney 2008. Alan is District Director (Dist 2) for Interflora Australian Unit and President of Australian Florists and Allied Trades Association. Alan also judges Regional Competitions/and Industry Events and has helped establish Floristry as a new category to the WorldSkills programme. Alan’s words of advice to the Skillaroos are to “stay focused, stay committed and stay true to one-self.”