What is your current job/role?

It is really hard to define my job in one position or role. Overall, I would say I am a Freelancer in Event Management and Fashion Production. I also am the Director and Founder of my own small sustainable slow fashion business, Amela by Melanie Grace. 

Did you always aspire to be in the job position you currently hold?

I knew I had a passion for both Fashion and Events but never expected to be working in both. 

What have you done since leaving CTHS?

I graduated with an Associate’s Degree in Fashion Design and Technology from RMIT and I completed my final semester in Milan, Italy through my university exchange program. 

Since graduating from university, I landed a full-time position at a Sport Presentation Events company where I worked my way up from being an administration assistant, to an event coordinator, to an event manager within 4 years. During that time, I had the incredible opportunity to work on events across the globe including the 2018 Commonwealth Games, The Invictus Games 2018 and the 2019 Special Olympics. 

After 4 years, I decided to go back to my love of fashion and start my own small, sustainable slow fashion business. Whilst working on my business, I also worked for a custom, made to measure suiting company where I was the Product and Merchandise Assistant. 

Fast forward to 2022, last year I decided that I wanted to pursue further studies and am now undertaking a Bachelors of Fashion and Textiles in Sustainable Innovation which focuses on improving environmental, social and ethical practices within the fashion industry. I also continue to freelance in both fashion and events with just recently finished working the 2022 Australian Open. 

Describe your average workday...

Every day is completely different depending on what client I am working with. I am currently working as a Graphic Production Supervisor for an event company where I manage content creation and delivery for sporting events. Ask me this in about a week’s time and I will be a production assistant for a 12-hour campaign shoot for the AFL. Perks of being a freelancer is that every day can be different! 

Please share some words of wisdom for today's students…

My biggest advice that I tell anyone is to not feel like you are stuck in one job for the rest of your life. Experiment, have fun, and your career should be something you enjoy if you are passionate about it.

What were the greatest lessons you learned at CTHS that you have carried with you into your career?

CTHS gave me my foundations for my work ethic today and allowed me to explore my passions and understand the importance of time management. 

What piece of advice do you have for students today given your experience in the working world?

Networking and experience are key. Don’t be afraid to talk to people, build rapport, get help and advice from others, don’t be afraid of feedback and criticism as this will allow you to grow and my biggest one is knowing your worth.