Congratulations to Stef Velona, who has won the Bunning’s award for Women in Apprenticeships.
Partnering with the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC), Bunnings Trade continue to celebrate the outstanding accomplishments of women in apprenticeships, providing a substantial financial and professional reward to kick start their careers.
From a competitive pool of nearly two thousand applicants nationwide, Stef was selected as one of ten deserving winners. The award ceremony held at Doncaster Bunnings, was attended by the Bunnings team, Stef’s parents and Jack Biggs, Stef’s Branch Manager, all there to celebrate her deserving accomplishment.
The prize package awarded to Stef was remarkable, including nearly ten thousand dollars’ worth of vouchers, materials, and tools, along with a year-long NAWIC mentorship to nourish Stef's passion for painting and offer invaluable career guidance. 
Joining Programmed in 2021, Stef has flourished in her role as a third-year Painting Apprentice.
Her nomination for the award highlights the supportive and inclusive environment she has found within her team, and how her trade has helped her to believe in herself.
Reflecting on her journey, Stef shares her nomination submission:
"I’m a third-year apprentice painter, and I love my trade. All the current painters have been so supportive, patient and have encouraged me to challenge myself. Their belief makes me believe in my capabilities, which I have found difficult in the past. I love learning new things every day, and the people there have inspired me to be more curious. I’m now never afraid to ask questions not only in the trade, but in everyday life.
The trade has taught me not only to paint, but to believe in myself, be a leader, and be a team player. As someone who has recently discovered they are autistic, painting is a great trade for me sensory wise. I think this support pack would help me tremendously with getting the gear I need to be the best in the trade, and hopefully be that representation for other trades women and non-binary people thinking about entering the industry. Hopefully as well I can find a way to encourage the trade industry to be more inclusive and supportive of people who are neurodivergent.”
Please join us, and the entire Melbourne Branch, in congratulating Stef in being recognised nationally for her dedication and commitment to her trade and the team.
