Jennie Barrera is a VET teacher of language, literacy and numeracy and a true champion for adult education.

She has a significant leadership role in her community, driving humanitarian programs for migrants and other disadvantaged groups.

Jennie has been influential in incorporating VET as a solution to her clients’ needs, such as offering courses in literacy, language and numeracy, early childhood education, digital literacy, and a range of pre-accredited courses.

She has developed strong links to agencies in all three tiers of government, and has made a significant contribution toward settlement services.

Jennie was involved in the establishment of Wyndham Humanitarian Network, which brings services for refugees together.

Jennie demonstrates an innovative use of VET to support her clients, such as an industry partnership with Vertech Hume for workers with poor language and literacy skills that eventually led to employees gaining a Certificate III in Manufacturing.

Similarly, her work with Toyota is a credit to her innovation and drive. Jennie assisted employees’ transition to other employment when the company ceased manufacturing in Australia. The program she implemented has been replicated across Victoria.