The Australia Pacific Training Coalition's (APTC) investment in creating skills for life has enabled Lopeti Filo to upskill and share his knowledge and expertise with others.
Lopeti is a Skills for Tourism Planner and Coach with Tonga Skills. His vast experience in the tourism and training sectors led him to develop and deliver Tonga National Qualification and Accreditation Board (TNQAB) recognised short course programs for industry workers in Tonga.
He graduated with APTC in Tonga after completing Certificate IV in Training and Assessment (TAE40116) in 2015 and the APTC International Training and Assessment Course in 2018.
Lopeti said skills development for tourism and hospitality workers is vital for a better-trained workforce.
"Tourism and hospitality industries are the most competitive in Tonga," Lopeti said.
"Since we rely a lot on tourism and hospitality due to lack of natural resources and other means of national revenue in the country, these industries provide enough jobs for the locals to live by, especially during the COVID-19 crisis."
Lopeti is hopeful that the accredited training program he developed and delivered through Tonga Skills will drive the workers' competency in their workplaces.
According to Lopeti, the APTC courses he undertook were incorporated into his teaching method, including the writing and the qualification recognition by TNQAB.
"My training with APTC has supported me in the way I teach, from the technical aspect to the lesson plans, time and resource management, the approach with students in classes, evaluation, and assessment. All these components were an asset to my accomplishment.
"APTC has provided me with many opportunities. I have learned and filled my hunger for personal development and feel I've reached the peak of my skills. These life skills are light for Tonga, a light that is meant to be shared with Tongan families and communities," Lopeti said.
A proud member of the APTC Alumni Tonga Chapter, Lopeti recently completed his term as the Chapter Chairperson. Under his leadership, the Chapter conducted community services and outreach programs, demonstrating a solid community and volunteer commitment.
"I have come to realise the importance of giving than to receive. These training programs are my opportunity to assist and share with Tonga in whatever way I can. I would like to see someone live a better life because of the work I do or that we do together," Lopeti concluded.
APTC is managed by TAFE Queensland (RTO 0275).