Keeley Horton has been giving back to her home town of Port Kembla for years on end.
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Nevertheless the youth worker and TAFE NSW graduate promised to give more back to Port Kembla, moments after claiming Illawarra and South East Training Awards' Student of the Year crown.
The 21-year-old Horton, who works as a disability support worker with Sydney Health and Care Services and in voluntary youth worker roles, was visibly emotional after being announced as the winner at the special Facebook Live awards ceremony on Tuesday night.
On Wednesday she told the Mercury her dream remained to open a youth centre in Port Kembla.
Ms Horton said the award moved her a step closer to realising her career goals.
"For me, this award means fulfilling my purpose of using my training to help people," she said.
"My dream is to open a youth centre and this award can only help me reach that goal.
"TAFE NSW was such a full life experience; I met so many amazing people and learned so much about myself and my profession. It really prepared me for the realities of my job."
TAFE NSW regional general manager Belinda Mackinnon said Keeley's strong showing was testament to her commitment to excellence in her chosen field.
"I have no doubt Keeley will go on to forge a highly successful career and be a wonderful ambassador for TAFE NSW," Ms Mackinnon said.
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Agron Latifi
Wollongong born and bred. I love reporting about the Illawarra region and have been doing it for more than 20 years. I've moved into sport recently after covering the education round for the last five plus years for the Illawarra Mercury. It's been a great pleasure.
Wollongong born and bred. I love reporting about the Illawarra region and have been doing it for more than 20 years. I've moved into sport recently after covering the education round for the last five plus years for the Illawarra Mercury. It's been a great pleasure.
