The winner of this year’s LIA National Graduate Scholarship Prize, Nicole Danger, has been recognised by Linda Dessau, Governor of Victoria and Anthony Howard QC, at a recent reception at Government House in Melbourne, convened to celebrate Women in Trades.
A press operator at Chapel Press, Danger said she is passionate about print and the career opportunities it offers, particularly for women.
“When I was at high school, print was never even mentioned as an option – it simply wasn’t on the radar, particularly for girls,” she said.
“Once I discovered the industry, though, I was instantly drawn to the potential of letterpress to provide unique and beautiful solutions for short-run, high-end work. When people see, touch and feel a superbly crafted job, it literally leaves them speechless; that’s something very special.
“And, because so much of the quality of the work in letterpress comes down to the skill and craft of the operator, it’s always a challenge to achieve excellence. I take real pride in that.”
The invitation to attend the recent celebration was extended following the recognition of Danger’s achievements at the LIA Awards, where she awarded the Visual Connections LIA National Graduate Scholarship Prize.
She mentioned that she will use the $5,000 study grant to travel to Packaging Premier in Milan, and Luxe Pack in Paris, in May next year.
“I’m already finalising my travel plans for the shows, and looking into site tours and work experience opportunities to further my knowledge and expand my skill set,” she said.
“Some of the companies I’m talking to produce multi-level embossing and other absolutely stunning work and I can’t wait to bring new ideas and techniques back to Australia to create interest and excitement for our clients and the industry.”
Danger added that she is keen to contribute to the promotion of trades and, in particular, print to other young women.
“In an industry which is still quite male-dominated – although print is now far more evenly balanced than many sectors – recognition from the Governor for women in trades is an important step towards raising the profile, not only of trades as a viable and exciting career option for women, but of the breadth of opportunities in the print sector,” she mentioned.
“It’s a real honour to represent our industry, and in particular its women, at this event.”
Comment below to have your say on this story.
If you have a news story or tip-off, get in touch at editorial@sprinter.com.au.
Sign up to the Sprinter newsletter