Five minutes with…Brooke Osland

Returning Fashion Technology competitor Brooke Osland is excited to compete in the National Championship for a second time. “I feel very proud to be able to represent my region again and be a part of this amazing experience,” she explains.

Brooke was introduced to WorldSkills by Ian Vickery (Regional Coordinator – Hunter). Brooke says Ian “was extremely passionate and humble when talking about WorldSkills and you could tell that this would be an amazing experience if you had the chance to be a part of it.”

Since achieving bronze in the WorldSkills National Competition in 2016, Brooke has been focusing on starting her own business, “I hope to start doing markets by the end of this year, I already have some orders for things which is super exciting,” she says.

Her drive to pursue a career in Fashion Technology grew from her love of sewing. “Sewing is my absolute favourite part of the fashion world. When I am sewing I’m in my happy place. I love seeing something come together and form into something someone can wear,” Brooke explains.

Brooke was introduced to fashion in Year 7 and studied the subject throughout her time at school. She achieved outstanding results and was awarded first in the subject for her year level. At the end of high school, Brooke with the encouragement of her family and friends investigated opportunities to continue her studies. In 2016, Brooke graduated from Hunter TAFE, Tighes Hill with a Diploma and Advance Diploma in Fashion Design and Technology.

Brooke has clear career goals and competing at Skills Show Australia 2018 is at the top of her list. In preparation for the competition, she is training at TAFE twice a week and practising her sewing skills at home. She describes herself as bubbly, happy and outgoing – all of which comes across clearly in her work. You can view Brooke’s creations on her Instagram @design_tob.

From photography, graphic design and digital games, to fashion, make-up artistry, music and arts administration, VET opens doors to creative careers. Find out more at VET.nsw.gov.au #VETopensdoors