Print Apprentice of the Year
A print apprenticeship has enabled Dilanka Attale of Kiwi Labels to realise his drive to “find your passion, never give up and make your success”. His success culminated in the top print-industry prize in 2018, the prestigious title of New Zealand Print Apprentice of the Year.
Expressing how much the award meant to him and his family, Dilanka paid tribute to Competenz and his employers for his success. “I sincerely thank Kiwi Labels for putting me into this apprenticeship and my managers for sharing their knowledge of printing with me,” he said. “From the first day, they have been very helpful and encouraging me – always welcoming my ideas and correcting me when I am wrong.”
Dilanka identifies Andrew Thomson, his technical manager, as being particularly important in his achievement and says he “identified that extra interest which I had towards printing and let me shine”.
In his work, Dilanka demonstrates a thorough technical knowledge of the process alongside a real passion for the work he produces, the people he works with, the business he works for and the overall print industry. Describing his achievement as “outstanding”, Kiwi Labels general manager Guy Phillips said it was “a reflection of the hard work and commitment Dilanka has shown right from day one”.
“This also really highlights the mentoring that Dilanka received throughout his training,” he said. Phillips emphasised that training is of “great importance” to Kiwi Labels. “We want to be able to support and mentor keen and committed people. We also want to keep supporting our wonderful clients with the best staff.
“Training is a big commitment for both the employee and employer, but it’s one we are 100% behind. Upskilling and learning never stops. The benefit for us is offering our clients a quality product made by skilled and committed people.”