Congratulations to Justin Drew Indigenous learner and prize winner at the 2022 ACT Training Awards

Congratulations to our learner, Justin Drew, for taking out the ACT Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student of the Year Award at the 2022 ACT Training Awards last week.

Joining a number of staff and fellow students from the Canberra Institute of Technology (CIT) and CIT Solutions, Justin represented excellence in the Indigenous community at the ACT Training Awards as the standout learner this year. Studying a nationally recognised qualification, he recently completed Services Australia's Indigenous Apprenticeship Program (IAP) facilitated by CIT Solutions.

Meet Justin: ACT Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student of the Year 2022

Justin is a proud Yamatji man who moved from Western Australia to take up the opportunity to work for Services Australia in Canberra. Specialising in Project Management, Justin studied the PSP50116 Diploma of Government with CIT Solutions through the Indigenous Apprenticeships Program, and completed his apprenticeship program in April 2022.

Throughout his time as an apprentice, Justin demonstrated professionalism in all aspects of his work. He delivered assessments that were of consistently high quality, showed strong leadership skills, and contributed diversity to problem-solving.

Since completing his studies, Justin continues to work at Services Australia in the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS). He has been able to undertake some interesting and complex projects within the department, furthering his studies and building on his skills to solve some real-world systems problems.

"At my time at CIT Solutions, I really enjoyed the course content, it was not only interesting and engaging but the majority of our activities contained real world scenarios," Justin said.

“That's reflected by the flexible workplace project which is now a real live pilot in my section. The learning that I managed to achieve has really elevated my work to the next level," he reflects.

"CIT Solutions have given me the tools to produce high quality work while ensuring my agency delivers and remains accountable."

Showcasing commitment and application of new skills, Justin stands out for his focus on making a difference to communities. In his daily work, he has a vital role in keeping the community pharmacies of Canberra operating at full capacity. He also makes contributions to peak bodies such as the Pharmacy Guild of Australia.

When it comes to Justin's personal interests, it ranges from Australian maritime history to ethics and philosophy. He is also an avid reader of science, and shares information widely with his Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander networks to increase awareness of public health services available for all Australians.

Currently, Justin is applying his skills in the workplace by managing and mentoring a Year 12 school leaver who is new to the Public Service. Justin is working closely with him to share all his learnings to assist him in building his knowledge of the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme.

"I would also like thank [my facilitators] Gregg Barclay and Robyn Watson," Justin praises our trainers at CIT Solutions, "They were both friendly, knowledgeable, ran engaging and fun block training sessions, it was always something to look forward to."

Gregg Barclay and Robyn Watson are key members of the CIT Solutions' team delivering high quality facilitation and ongoing support for learners in the Indigenous Apprenticeship Program. Working closely alongside Account Manager Benice Richmond, the CIT Solutions team is proud to foster yet another winner in the ACT Training Awards.

"It was a pleasure seeing Justin grow throughout the IAP. He worked hard to apply his skills from the classroom in the workplace. Justin always offered constructive support to his peers throughout the program, and always provided outstanding contributions to help the Diploma classes succeed. I wish him all the best in his career and congratulations on his well-deserved win."

- Gregg Barclay

Facilitator for the PSP50116 Diploma of Government Qualification, CIT Solutions

"It was with great pride that I recommended the nomination of Justin Drew for the award of ACT Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student of the Year. It's a privilege and pleasure to have met such a generous, humble and visionary leader. Congratulations, Justin!"

- Robyn Watson

Facilitator for the Indigenous Apprenticeships Program, CIT Solutions

Our team at CIT Solutions congratulates Justin for his hard work throughout his studies, and for his commitment to developing skills in the workplace. His contribution supports the growth of his agency while promoting Indigenous representation in the Australian Public Service.

Justin will be progressing to represent the ACT at the Australian Training Awards at the end of the year. These national VET awards aim to showcase best practice in vocational education and training around the country.