Jessica Peters
- Age: 19 years
Competitor in Skill: Floristry
Country: Australia
How did you get interested in your skill?
I first got involved in the floral industry when I was 15 years old, completing work experience for my year 10 certificate in high school. I had always had a fascination with flowers but had never really considered pursuing a career pathway in this industry, nor did I know anything about the industry. After my second day of work experience, the owner of the business hired me for paid work for weekends and after school on weekdays. From there, I left school at the beginning of year 11 and have never looked back.
Where did you do your training for your skill?
TAFE NSW Western Sydney Institute, Padstow College
How did you first find out about your Member organization and its programs?
I first became involved in WorldSkills Australia when I entered into the floristry competition in my region. My TAFE teacher, David Berger encouraged me to compete and said how great an opportunity it would be.
Who influenced you to pursue your skill as a career?
I was influenced to pursue my Floristry skill as a career after completing work experience at my local florist during high school. I worked after school whilst completing my year 10 certificate and then wanted to study Floristry via TVET. The TVET course was not offered through my school so I then had to decide to leave school and take a chance at where floristry would take me, or stay on and pursue the skill after I had finished my HSC. I took the chance and left school, and I have not regretted for a day! The first lady who employed for work experince was my biggest influence as she encouraged me throughout my studies.
What is your experience in participating with your Member organization?
My experience in participating with Worldskills Australia has been truly unforgettable and invaluable. I have been extremely fortunate at being given the chance to be a part of this amazing organization. From the media exposure to the gorgeous support network, the friendly and helpful team and the opportunities that have emerged in my path are all thanks to Worldskills Australia. I cannot explain in words how fantastic my experience has been with this organization!
Describe your most memorable moment so far with WorldSkills?
My most memorable moment so far with world skills has been winning the gold medal at the 2014 nationals in Perth. The feeling of having my name called out in front of hundreds of people made me feel as though I was on top of the world! It is a true moment of utter joy and happiness to be recognised in your skill and more so at a major competition.
Describe what your experience has been since your involvement with WorldSkills
As I mentioned a little earlier, my experience with Worldskills has been second to none. Throughout the entirety of my journey to the international competition, the events I have experienced, the people I have met and the places I have seen would not have been possibly without the support of Worldskills Australia. I( am truly thankful for the path I have embarked on so far.
Did participating in the skills competitions and training for WorldSkills help you progress in your skill? Please describe.
WorldSkills Australia has assisted me personally by showing me how far I can actually push myself as a person. It has made me realise what I truly want in life and where I want to be in 10 years. The exposure of my work by WorldSkills Australia is amazing – I would have never thought my work would have been showcased as widely as it has been since starting my career.
What do you currently do? Where do you work?
I currently work in the Floral industry for a small business called Flowers At The Fair. It is a small family business located in Campbelltown, New South Wales. The business is quite traditional in style but we ensure all of our clients receive only the freshest quality of blooms and the perfect composition for their occasion.
What are your future career aspirations?
I hope to be able to achieve my long term goal of owning a business that includes a florist, tea gardens (which can be used for wedding ceremonies and functions) and a café. I also hope that I may one day be teaching Floristry at a TAFE institute and share my journey and skills with future florists.