Jeweller’s quest for gold

It’s week five of our Regional Champion highlights and we are happy to reveal our fifth National Competitor – the highly talented jeweller, Samantha Kelly from Nuriootpa in South Australia.

Samantha, at only 21 years old, will put her skills to the test against other young champion jewellers from up to 31 regions across Australia at the 2014 WorldSkills Australia National Competition in Perth this September. During the competition, Samantha will be required to complete a series of technical and skill based tasks to then be judged by industry experts, all in the pursuit of a gold medal and the title of – ‘Nation’s Best’.

Samantha, who attended TAFE SA, Adelaide College of the Arts and is currently employed by Ian Gardiner, will also be vying for a scholarship through one of WorldSkills Australia’s prestigious international pathways where she will be given the chance to pursue further skill development through study, work experience, overseas travel or financial support.

“I feel excited and nervous but I always love a challenge in my work, anything that will push me to make me achieve being the best in my trade”, says Samantha about progressing to the 2014 WorldSkills Australia National Competition.

In addition to her WorldSkills success, Samantha was also one of five finalists from Australia and New Zealand at the 2012 Jewellers Association of Australia’s Australasian Jewellery Awards. Samantha’s one of a kind pendant ‘Dusk to Dawn’ was showcased in the 1st and 2nd year apprentice/student design and craftsmanship category, a testament to her high level of artistry, creativity and excellence in her quality of work.