Gemma represents Australia at WorldSkills Shanghai 2026
We were thrilled to see Angliss hospitality graduate Gemma Scott take to the world stage at WorldSkills Shanghai 2026, representing Australia in Restaurant Service as a member of the Skillaroos.
Competing against some of the world's most talented emerging hospitality professionals, Gemma showcased her skills in fine dining service, tableside preparation, wine service and guest engagement.
For Gemma, reaching WorldSkills Shanghai was the result of two years of dedication and growth.
"Looking back, I realise this journey was never just about making it to WorldSkills Shanghai. It was about earning the opportunity to stand on the world stage and represent something bigger than myself," she said.
WorldSkills Shanghai 2026 brought together more than 1,400 young apprentices, trainees and skilled professionals from around the world to compete at the highest level of vocational excellence. As part of Australia's Skillaroos team, Gemma helped showcase the strength of Australia's vocational education sector on the global stage.
"This result shows the world what we already know here at home: that Australia's vocational education and training system produces some of the best young talent anywhere," said WorldSkills Australia CEO Trevor Schwenke.
From student to international competitor
A place in Australia's Skillaroos team marked a major milestone for Gemma, who began her hospitality journey as a part-time Food Service Attendant before completing both the Certificate III in Hospitality and Diploma of Hospitality Management through Free TAFE at Angliss. Along the way, she won Gold in Restaurant Service at the 2025 WorldSkills Australia National Championships and Bronze at the 2026 Global Skills Challenge.
"Representing Australia on the international stage is something I never imagined when I first started my hospitality journey," said Gemma. "Competing alongside the world's best taught me to trust my training, stay calm under pressure and keep learning. WorldSkills has given me confidence in my abilities and opened my eyes to opportunities in hospitality both in Australia and overseas."
Gemma credits her training at Angliss and the support of her teachers, mentors, family and friends for helping her prepare for Shanghai, particularly Angliss trainer Joanna Murthy-Nitka. "Their guidance, encouragement and belief in me helped make this opportunity possible," she said.
Joanna praised Gemma's growth throughout her WorldSkills journey. "Gemma's determination, resilience and willingness to learn transformed her from a talented student into a confident young professional," said Joanna. "Her attention to detail, professionalism and ability to remain calm under pressure helped her perform at an international level."
Watching Gemma compete in Shanghai was a career highlight for Joanna. "Seeing Gemma represent Australia alongside the world's best competitors was incredibly rewarding. Finishing 19th in the world for Restaurant Service was a fantastic achievement and a proud moment as her mentor."
Joanna hopes Gemma's success will inspire more Angliss students to pursue WorldSkills opportunities.
"WorldSkills develops technical excellence, confidence, resilience and professionalism while exposing students to international industry standards. It prepares students for successful careers and inspires them to strive for excellence."
A world of opportunities ahead
With WorldSkills behind her, Gemma is already looking ahead to the next stage of her career, with plans to gain international hospitality experience in restaurants and on superyachts.
"WorldSkills has given me the confidence to take on new challenges," she said. "I'm excited to explore different styles of service, learn from other cultures and see where this next chapter takes me."
Gemma's achievement highlights the talent emerging from Angliss and shows how industry-focused training can open doors to opportunities on the global stage.
In Victoria, Free TAFE makes hospitality training more accessible than ever.
Like to follow in Gemma’s footsteps? Study hospitality at Angliss. Learn more about Angliss courses, information sessions and campus tours by contacting the Future Students team on +61 3 8595 5334 or enquiry@angliss.edu.au.
