By Emma Xerri
Ali Rezaie is continuing to take the automotive world by storm, securing yet another prestigious award nomination.
For Hampton Park’s Ali Rezaie, who was born and raised in Afghanistan, the 7NEWS Young Achiever Awards nomination is a testament to the unceasing hard work he has immersed himself in since arriving in Australia less than five years ago.
“Coming to Australia, everything was new – new culture, new language, and new people. It was a complex transition for me,” he said.
“As soon as I started an apprenticeship, I knew this was for me, this is what I was looking for.”
Searching for a stable, lasting job, Mr Rezaie stumbled upon panel beating, and has excelled in his chosen career, all while learning a new language and completing his training at the Kangan Institute.
Having already received a Silver Medal in Autobody Repair at the 2022 WorldSkills Regional Championships, a Bronze at the 2023 WorldSkills National Championships and the honour of being named 2022 Capital S.M.A.R.T Victorian Apprentice of the Year, Mr Rezaie’s work was once again recognised at the Kangan Institute’s Industry Excellence Awards for 2024, where he received the Rising Star Award for his autobody apprenticeship.
“I want to push myself and this is the best way to do that. It’s a good chance to learn more things,” he added.
The Young Achiever Awards, which began in 2012, serve to acknowledge, encourage and promote the positive achievements of all young people across the country, with the category winners each receiving $2000 in prizes and a trophy, as well as the chance to be named the 2024 Victorian Young Achiever of the Year.
Judging for the awards will take place on Wednesday 27 March 2024, and finalists will be presented at an Awards Gala Presentation Dinner on Friday 14 June 2024.
