Samantha Johnson

• Age: 20 years

Competitor in Skill: Restaurant Service
Country: Australia

How did you get interested in your skill?
I became interested in my skill through a past competitor, from that I competed at a collage level competition and have just continued from there. I always like the idea of hospitality because it keeps you busy and you get to meet different people everyday.

Where did you do your training for your skill?
TAFE NSW Northern Sydney Institute, Ryde Campus

How did you first find out about your Member organization and its programs?
I first become involved in WorldSkills Australia when I met 2013 Skillaroo, Jessica Martin. We attended the same TAFE while she was training for the 42nd WorldSkills Competition in Leipzig, Germany. She encouraged me to enter a TAFE level restaurant service competition, which I came first in. After that I was offered the opportunity to enter the WorldSkills Australia Regional Competition.

Who influenced you to pursue your skill as a career?
I was already studying in my skill area but my mentors have given me the opportunity to develop my skills further in a short period of time. I wouldn’t have had the opportunities that I have had without them.

Describe your most memorable moment so far with WorldSkills?
Meeting the rest of the skillaroos and going to New Zealand with them was one of my favourite memories so far. Getting to spend lots of time with them and getting to know everyone more was just a lot of fun.

Describe what your experience has been since your involvement with WorldSkills
My experience has been amazing; spending time with dedicated and passionate individuals from a wide range of backgrounds has been something I wouldn’t trade for the world. Also having access to industry experts has allowed me to expand my knowledge and confidence.

Did participating in the skills competitions and training for WorldSkills help you progress in your skill? Please describe.
WorldSkills Australia has improved my confidence and shown me that I am capable of achieving anything if I work hard enough. It has improved my skills greatly which, has allowed me better job opportunities.

What do you currently do? Where do you work?
I am currently working as a waitress at the Reef Restaurant in Terrigal NSW.

What are your future career aspirations?
I would like to work overseas within the next few years to gain more international experience. I would also finish my university degree (Bachelor of Hotel Management). In the long term, I want to continue the development of my industry knowledge and work my way up into management of hotels and restaurants. I also want to stay involved in WorldSkills Australia and be a part of other people’s journeys through the different stages.