Mount Gambier based Mondelez International has been named as South Australia’s International Student Employer of the Year by StudyAdelaide.
Mondelez International, one of the largest food manufacturers in Australia, was recognised for its welcoming and inclusive working environment, and the support provided for international students while completing their studies.
The company was nominated by Brazilian international student Taynah Gatto Noya who was introduced to Mondelez International during a regional careers tour organised by StudyAdelaide in 2022.
During the tour, Taynah and other international students visited the Mondelez manufacturing facility to learn about its operations and the employment opportunities offered by the company and Taynah later applied for a job.
A few months later, Taynah relocated to Mount Gambier to take up the role of Continuous Improvement Engineer, part of a team charged with optimising the company’s manufacturing and production processes.
Taynah cited the diverse workforce, positive workplace culture, flexibility to complete her master’s degree, support relocating to Mount Gambier and the company’s care after she experienced a family tragedy as the key reasons for her nomination of Mondelez International for the award.
StudyAdelaide Chief Executive Jane Johnston said Mondelez International had demonstrated how to successfully cultivate a diverse workforce including international students.
“Taynah’s experience at Mondelez is testament to the company’s culture and its willingness to open its doors to international students who have the skills the company needs,” Ms Johnston said.
“International students, both during their studies and after graduating, offer South Australian employers invaluable experience and skills, especially within a very tight labour market.
“Congratulations to Mondelez International and all the entrants and winners in this year’s International Student Awards whose commitment to their studies, employment of international students and the South Australian community is remarkable.”
This year, StudyAdelaide received 257 entries for the International Student Awards from 22 educational institutions, with 42 different nationalities represented among the entrants.
The winners were presented with their awards by the Governor of South Australia, Her Excellency, the Honourable Frances Adamson AC at a ceremony at the National Wine Centre last week.