A Yagoona local has credited TAFE NSW with helping her land her dream job, having joined the in-demand design industry at the age of 33.

In Australia, job growth in the creative sector is almost double that of other occupations, and creative jobs are, on average, paid 24% more than those in other industries.

Mum-of-two Hanaa Zidan has taken advantage of this boom, having honed her creative skills and completing a Diploma of Interior Design at TAFE NSW Lidcombe. She currently works as a Technical Design Specialist at Milliken.

“I’ve always had a passion for designing and decorating – from a young age I was always painting, drawing, and doing DIY projects. When my son was a year old, I started working from home as a henna artist and selling hand painted cushions. Having my own small business inspired me to build my skills, so I decided to enrol in the TAFE NSW Diploma of Interior Design,” Ms Zidan said.

“As a mum of two young boys and a full-time student, there were some hurdles to overcome but the support of my teachers has been invaluable. The course gave me hands-on skills in design and illustration, which helped me land a job four weeks after graduation.

“I’m really enjoying applying everything I’ve learnt in my day-to-day role, which involves creating digital content such as 3D floor plans, mood boards, and inspiration boards for a range of clients and products. Seeing the final product come to life is incredibly rewarding.

“I’d strongly encourage others to follow their passion, no matter their age, and am looking forward to progressing my career and gaining new skills through the Advanced Diploma of Interior Design.”

James Mfula, Creative Director at Milliken (Australia) said: “Milliken has always been a great supporter of graduates.”

“We collaborate and work closely with institutions to offer opportunities for graduates to understand how their diverse knowledge and creativity can work side by side to solve global challenges in all aspects of design and manufacturing sustainability,” Mr Mfula said.

TAFE NSW Head Teacher of Design Emma Lawes said it’s great to see graduates like Hanaa striving to achieve their study and career goals.

“Our Interior Design courses provide pathways to a range of in-demand jobs including interior designers, decorators, interior stylists, and design workers. No two days are the same in the design industry and the opportunities for growth are endless,” Ms Lawes said.

“The Diploma of Interior Design provides students with technical skills including how to use 3D CAD software, prepare client presentations, and meet client briefs, so they can hit the ground running once they graduate.

“It’s great to see graduates like Hanaa highlighting the life-changing impact of quality education and training.”

Media contact: Emma Hughes, Communications Specialist, 0409 618 291, emma.hughes51@tafensw.edu.au