Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student of the Year

Sponsored by East Arnhem Regional Council

Winner: Sonny Malmerin-Fejo, Certificate III in Warehousing Operations

Employer: Programmed Skilled Workforce
Registered training provider: Charles Darwin University

When Sonny Malmerin-Fejo began his apprenticeship at ConocoPhillips he couldn’t believe he was getting paid for the work he was doing. Described by his supervisor as sunny by name and by nature, Sonny has established himself as a happy and enthusiastic team member with an infectious hunger for learning new skills.

In completing a Certificate III in Warehouse Operations, Sonny has rotated through various departments within ConocoPhillips, being exposed to huge logistical operations.

With this has come some challenges which Sonny has tackled head on by immersing himself in team culture and reaching out for help when he needed it.

Runner Up: Amber Cadell, Certificate IV in Business

Employer: Top End Health Services
Registered training provider: Charles Darwin University

Amber Cadell’s message is simple - 'never let adversity stop you from reaching your goals'. Amber’s goal is to one day become a police officer so she can be a role model in her community and promote good behaviour. With her natural born leadership skills, commitment to success and resilience during tough times, she is already half way there.

In 2016, Amber completed a Certificate II in Business as part of the Indigenous Employment Program (IEP) and has since completed a Certificate IV in Business. She is currently enrolled in the Certificate IV in Leadership and Management while juggling work at Katherine Hospital in an administrative position.

During her first certificate as part of the IEP, Amber’s resilience was tested with the death of her brother two weeks into the program.

Amber vowed to not miss any of her training despite the devastation her and her family were suffering.