Liaqat Ahmadi – Hume Vocational Education and Training (VET) Cluster Coordinator

Meet Liaqat

About me

Name: Liaqat Ahmadi

Job: Hume VET Cluster Coordinator

VET: School-based traineeship in Business, Certificate III in Community Services and Diploma of Business

Location: Gladstone Park

There are so many different pathways available

My story

What do you do?

I work for the Hume Whittlesea Local Learning and Employment Network (LLEN) My role includes strategic planning, policy development, data analysis, identifying and exploring opportunities and working with key stakeholders to support VET delivery across the cluster schools. I previously worked in the TAFE sector for nearly 6 years.

What was your VET journey?

I completed a Certificate III in Business traineeship while doing Year 12 and was then offered a full-time job at GOTAFE.

At the same time, I served as school captain and also attended the Arab Youth Nations International Model United Nations in Dubai.

I want to continue my education journey and look forward to doing a business or finance degree in the future. “Curiosity is the engine of achievement” is a quote I resonate with a lot which motivates me to learn more.

What advice would you give to students who are considering a vocational pathway?

I initially started my studies in VCE but soon realized that vocational learning was a better fit for my goals and future aspirations. Unfortunately, there’s a common misconception that vocational learning students are less capable or intelligent - but that’s not the case. It’s time to challenge and change that perception.

My advice to students is simple, university is not the only path to success. Other options are available, and you’ll get plenty of support along the way. TAFE gives you career advice, CV writing, interview skills, and connects you with employers. No matter your path, there’s a future waiting for you.

What challenges did you face along the way?

One of the biggest challenges I faced was not knowing what my study options were. Like many students, I thought university was the only option, which left me feeling uncertain about my future. It wasn’t until my Careers teacher introduced me to Vocational Education and Training (VET) and school-based traineeships that I realised there were other options better suited to my skills and goals.

Now, I want to help others get the same opportunities I did. I want young people and their families to know about what options are out there, so they can make the best choices for their future - just like I was able to.

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