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Clean scholarship win for international trade student

Rika Eyre

International trade student Rika Eyre cleaned up with her scholarship win.

Rika, a Certificate III in International Trade student, won the $1750 Wayne Cleaning Systems Access and Equity Scholarship, which is awarded to students who have achieved academic excellence whilst experiencing financial hardship.

A single mum, originally from Japan, Rika said the scholarship was greatly appreciated.

“It certainly helps me a lot. Since I started studying I’m no longer working on a full time basis, and as a single parent it’s been very tough.  Eventually I’d like to gain employment in the international wine trade but in the meantime I work only one day a week at Domain Chandon in the Yarra Valley. I really enjoy the wine business and as we get a lot of Japanese visitors I get the opportunity to show them around and host them on their visits to the winery. Next year I plan to complete the Advanced Diploma, and then I’ll be looking forward to completing my studies and working full time again.”

Rika’s teacher, Reannon Hemmings, said Rika has shown immense perseverance to her studies through personal hardship.

“I was happy to recommend Rika to receive the scholarship as she has shown dedication and commitment to her studies. She has consistently worked hard, even though she has had to juggle important personal commitments throughout this time as well. She is pleasant, courteous and a team player. We look forward to working with Rika during her further studies,” said Reannon.