VET Teacher/
Trainer of the Year

Rouaa Altinawi

Rouaa workplace photo

Field of study
Real Estate

Employer
Entry Education

Region
Illawarra & South East NSW

  • Passionate about helping others succeed, Rouaa Altinawi is a dedicated real estate trainer who combines industry experience with a genuine commitment to student success. After beginning her career in real estate at 18 while completing her vocational training, Rouaa discovered her true passion was not only working in the industry but empowering others through education.

    Having migrated to Australia as a teenager, Rouaa's determination and resilience have shaped both her personal and professional journey. Her own experiences have inspired a strong commitment to mentoring, volunteering and coaching, where she encourages others to build confidence and achieve their goals.

    Since becoming a real estate trainer, Rouaa has introduced competency check calls to better support students, ensuring they remain engaged and on track throughout their training. Through regular industry events, ongoing professional development and a supportive approach to learning, she continues to empower the next generation of real estate professionals.

Kane Burns

Kane Burns Action Shot

Field of study
Music Industry

Employer
NSW Department of Education

Region
Hunter & Central Coast

  • A trailblazing VET teacher and passionate music industry advocate, Kane Burns designed and continues to lead Certificate III in Music Industry programs, creating regional collaboration hubs and building strong partnerships with leading studios, venues and industry organisations. Through after-school programs and innovative initiatives such as the Country to Coast Music Festival, Kane has brought together students and teachers from multiple schools, creating authentic learning experiences that have driven high levels of engagement and successful course completion.

    His partnerships with organisations including Drifters Wharf, The Grove Studios and APRA provide students with invaluable access to professional environments, workshops and scholarship opportunities that strengthen pathways into the music industry.

    Deeply committed to mentoring both students and fellow teachers, Kane supports colleagues across NSW to deliver contemporary, industry-connected VET programs. Through ongoing professional development and collaboration, he continues to strengthen regional music education, expand opportunities for young people and inspire the next generation of music professionals.

Deanna Lea

Field of study
Hospitality

Employer
Learning Sphere

Region
Riverina

  • Deanna Lea is an experienced and passionate vocational trainer specialising in Hospitality. With a background as a chef and business owner, Deanna brings extensive industry knowledge and practical expertise to her training. She is highly committed to supporting learners across metropolitan, regional, and rural NSW, often adapting to their unique circumstances to ensure engagement and completion.

    Her flexible, learner-centred teaching helps people overcome personal and professional challenges, contributing to an impressive 87 per cent program completion rate. Beyond the classroom, Deanna develops industry-relevant training resources and works closely with employers to strengthen workforce capability across the hospitality sector.

    A passionate advocate for vocational education, Deanna is dedicated to breaking down misconceptions and promoting lifelong learning. Her commitment to supporting marginalised learners and helping people build confidence, skills and meaningful careers has transformed lives and made her a valued leader within the VET sector.