Hannah Valenti
About me
Name: Hannah Valenti
Job: Youth Wellbeing Worker at Orygen Recovery, Parkville
VET: VCAL and Certificate III in Community Services; Certificate III in Education Support; Certificate II in Business; Certificate I in Employment Pathways; and a Diploma of Youth Work.
Location: Sunbury
The VET courses I did at school really put me ahead of the game.
My story
What was your VET journey?
I started studying VET Certificates in Year 10 and completed as many VET subjects as I could while I was at school.
The teachers were unbelievably good and I enjoyed learning so much about fields I really liked.
The work I do now is incredibly meaningful – I run groups that teach important life skills to young people who are facing challenges with their mental health.
What advice would you give to students who are considering a vocational pathway?
You get a qualification, get straight into the workforce and it's hands on – it's great!
What challenges did you face along the way?
I have a learning disability so I thought I would struggle but a vocational pathway actually helped me achieve more than I thought I was capable of. I received Excellence Awards and got the highest marks in my year level.
Work hours?
Either a morning, afternoon or overnight shift
Inside or outside?
Mainly inside
Solo or teamwork?
Definitely teamwork.
Perks?
Orygen really take care of their staff, the grounds are beautiful, the facilities are gorgeous and I have fantastic colleagues.
People don't know?
A lot of the work is collaborative.
Average salary?
$1,800 per week for an experienced youth worker.
Updated