Up and coming tradies recognised as future leaders at MBV Awards

THE future of the building and construction industry is in the hands of our youth who will end up as future leaders in the industry.

Metricon, Australia’s largest builder, with in excess of 2,500 employees, has always encouraged an easier pathway for those looking for a career in the building and construction industry, especially those who don’t have the traditional level of support from family and local networks.

The 2024 Building & Construction Foundation Mario Biasin Legacy Scholarships were recently awarded to four outstanding individuals at the prestigious Master Builders Victoria Excellence in Housing Awards.

These scholarships, named in honour of Metricon founder Mario Biasin, were established in 2022 to continue his legacy of fostering the next generation of leaders in the construction industry.

The scholarships aim to support individuals overcoming significant personal and socio-economic barriers, including cultural underrepresentation and migration challenges, as they pursue meaningful careers in building and construction.

This year, four recipients stood out for their resilience, determination, and dedication.

Early Career Category (awarded $2,500 each):

Annalise Novak – Annalise is pursuing a pre-apprenticeship Certificate II in Building and Construction (Bricklaying), overcoming family and financial hardships. Her ambition to become a skilled tradeswoman is inspiring.

Shantelle Masih – Shantelle is also working toward a Certificate II in Bricklaying, breaking through educational and financial barriers. Coming from a culturally diverse background, her perseverance represents the spirit of opportunity in the construction industry.

Leadership Category (awarded $5,000 each):

Omid Hamadi – Omid, a former refugee, is now studying a Bachelor of Construction Management (Honours) at RMIT University. His journey from asylum seeker to dedicated student reflects his unwavering commitment to a career in construction.

Elena Ateska – As a recent migrant and mother of two, Elena is studying a Bachelor of Building Surveying at Victoria University. She balances work, study, and family, demonstrating extraordinary resilience and dedication.

Metricon CEO Brad Duggan praised the recipients saying that these scholarships are a reflection of our deep commitment to giving back to the community and supporting the future of our industry.

“Mario Biasin believed strongly in creating opportunities for those who faced obstacles in their lives, and this year’s recipients embody that vision.

“We are so proud of Annalise, Shantelle, Omid, and Elena for their tenacity and drive, their success is the success of our industry.”

He said the construction sector was not just about building homes; it was about building futures.

“These scholarships are our way of ensuring that the next generation has the support they need to thrive, no matter their background.”

The next round of scholarships will open in July, 2025.