University of South Australia
2022 Awardee
Skyla, who is 22 years old, is studying for a Bachelor of Business (Tourism and Event Management), at the University of South Australia, and will soon be undertaking a Master of Management (Marketing), also at the University of South Australia.
Skyla is strongly committed to helping the tourism industry to thrive in Australia, specifically in South Australia. She recognizes the spin-off benefits from tourism to the wine, agriculture, and transport sectors of the economy.
She has a demonstrated track record of volunteering and paid employment in tourism. She has volunteered at the Beer and BBQ Festival; Tasting Australia; Unlimited Feet Performing Arts; OzAsia Festival; and the Adelaide Fringe Festival. She has been employed at Illuminate Adelaide; Sydney Film Festival; Adelaide Fringe Festival; Feast Festival; WOMADelaide Festival; and Adelaide Oval. Skyla completed a placement with the South Australian Tourism Commission, where she was the Event Office Assistant for the Santos Tour Down Under, and is a former Executive Member of the Tourism and Event Management Club at the University.
She has been a Location Leader with the Jeans for Genes Foundation, leading a group of volunteers who raised funds for the Children’s Medical Research Institute. Last year, she was also a UniMentor, helping new students settle into university life.
Skyla is a country girl, living at Rockleigh, in rural South Australia, over an hour away from the University’s City West Campus, where she studies. This has a significant impact on her time and financial situation. The nearest bus stop to travel to the campus is 39 kilometers away from her home.
Skyla has acquitted herself academically with distinction, recognized with her receiving two Chancellor’s Letters of Commendation.
She was awarded the SA Tourism Student of the Year Award and was House Captain, and Senior School Student Leader at Unity College, Murray Bridge.
The acumen and commitment Skyla has displayed in tourism and event management will be enhanced through the mentorship provided by Mr Martin Radcliffe, the General Manager of the Adelaide Convention Centre.
Donor: Mr Paul Wheelton AM KSJ