Since being named Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student of the Year finalist at the 2024 Australian Training Awards, Taylor Hampton has continued to build a career grounded in culture, education and community impact.
The recognition opened opportunities to connect with educators, leaders and fellow finalists from across Australia. The connections continued well beyond the awards, strengthening Taylor’s voice as an advocate for culturally strong pathways in vocational education and training (VET). In 2025, Taylor returned to the national stage in a new role as an Australian Training Awards mentor, supporting finalists through their awards journey.
“Moving from finalist to mentor within a year showed me how much growth can happen when you say yes to opportunity,” Taylor said.
For Taylor, the mentoring experience reinforced the importance of representation and encouragement, particularly for those stepping into national spaces for the first time.
“I remember how it felt to stand in that space myself. Proud, but also aware of the responsibility. My role was to remind them they belonged there and to trust their journey.”
Reflecting on his VET journey, Taylor says it has provided not only practical skills, but also confidence and a sense of belonging in decision making environments. In his role at the Victorian Aboriginal Child and Community Agency (VACCA), he has drawn on his training and experience to contribute confidently in leadership settings and advocate for culturally strong practice.
This foundation has supported the growth of Taylor’s business, Birrang Cultural Connections, which delivers culturally respectful workshops and programs. Their work focuses on creating meaningful opportunities for young people, schools and communities to connect with culture, identity and pride.
Alongside this work, Taylor keeps himself busy and has recently co‑authored a third children’s book, My Dreamtime Match. Inspired by sport, community and identity, the story reflects everyday Aboriginal experiences and encourages young readers to see culture as living and strong.
“Growing up, footy was never just a game. It was connection, pride and belonging,” Taylor said. “It was connection, pride and belonging. We wanted to tell a story where culture and sport sit together in the same space.”
Taylor is also continuing his own learning journey, currently completing a Certificate IV in Training and Assessment to further strengthen his work as a facilitator, mentor and educator.
As NAIDOC Week recognises and celebrates the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, Taylor’s journey reflects the importance of strong cultural identity, lifelong learning and community leadership. From finalist to mentor, author to educator, Taylor continues to demonstrate how VET can create pathways that empower individuals and strengthen communities.