An 'extraordinary experience and a journey of personal growth' is how 22 year-old Shana Davies sums up her time as an administrative trainee at Red Cross in Adelaide. Shana is the winner of 'The Maxima Print Junction 2007 Indigenous Australian Apprentice of the Year Award' for South Australia, and is now working fulltime with Red Cross as an Executive Administration Assistant.

Maxima Print Junction 2007 Indigenous Australian Apprentice of the Year, Shana Davies.

Shana says she realised the long-term advantages of gaining a recognised qualification but adds it hasn't been an easy path.

'I looked carefully for a good traineeship and learned very quickly to appreciate the mentoring and support I got,' Shana said.

'Fortunately, there were lots of people around both Maxima and Red Cross to offer help and advice.'

Shana worked 12 months in the Red Cross Wakefield Street office in Adelaide and one day at TAFE to round out her studies which lead to a Certificate III in Business.

Shana, who lives in the West Beach area of Adelaide, relocated to South Australia from Queensland and attended high school in Alice Springs.

Kerry Symons, executive director Red Cross in South Australia says Shana is now a highly skilled and valued member of the Red Cross team.

'Shana has contributed a great deal to the organisation. She brings both a youth and Indigenous perspective. She helps Red Cross staff, volunteers and members learn more about the richness of Aboriginal culture and how Red Cross can become better placed to partner with Aboriginal people in our work,' Ms Symons said.

'We're all very proud of her. This award appropriately recognises her dedication, skills and abilities.'

Shana says before she started her training, she had no idea about the diversity of Red Cross.

'I just thought it was all about giving blood, the shops and Red Cross Calling. It's been a huge learning curve.'

Shana has some kind words for her Red Cross co-workers.

'Peoples' hearts are in the right place and it's great to feel that you're working with people who are making a difference.'

Shana's advice is to try the apprenticeship route and she has taken on a mentoring role with other young Indigenous trainees within Red Cross.

'It hasn't been easy but, in the end, it's been a really positive experience. It's been helpful personally and for my family in terms of growth.'

Maxima is a not-for-profit community organisation and is a major employer of Indigenous trainees and apprentices in South Australia.

In acknowledging Shana's award, CEO Janice Paget says their goal is to provide opportunities for people to develop their skills increasing their potential to find jobs.
 
'It is always rewarding for us to work with young people to help develop their skills and confidence and set them on a path towards a rewarding career.'

'Our Graduation and Awards night gives us the opportunity to recognise these special individuals like Shana that have been outstanding performers,' Ms Paget said.

Fortunately it's not all hard work and training for Shana.

She's a bit of music buff and loves to listen to all kinds of performers - from Rhythm & Blues and Michael Buble, to a little touch of country with Garth Brooks.

Shana says someday she would like to travel overseas but for now, she is happy to learn more about her own culture and visit other parts of Australia.