2026
Finalist
Tasmania

Qualification: Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care
RTO: TasTAFE
Employer: Karadi Aboriginal Corporation

Cody Summers is a proud Pakana man with deep connections to Truwana (Cape Barren Island). He completed a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care through TasTAFE while working for Karadi Aboriginal Corporation as a Men’s Program and Cultural Activities Officer. 

Inspired by delivering cultural talks and workshops in schools and early learning services, Cody pursued training to better understand how children learn, develop and build confidence. The qualification strengthened his practical skills and created new opportunities as a Cultural Educator at TasTAFE and within the early childhood sector.  

Cody generously shares Tasmanian Aboriginal culture, leads community programs and on-country activities, delivers Welcome to Country, and supports cultural land management practices.  

Respected for his empathy, communication and quiet leadership, Cody  creates welcoming spaces where children, students and colleagues feel valued and connected.   

Through education and cultural knowledge-sharing, Cody is helping strengthen understanding, connection and pride for future generations.