Cody's passion for culture and education earns state recognition

Cody Summers with his award at this year's 2026 Tasmanian Training Awards in Hobart.

From sharing Aboriginal culture with young children to helping train the next generation of educators, Cody Summers has found a career that brings together his passion for culture, community and education.

His commitment has also earned him recognition as the 2026 Tasmanian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student of the Year.

A proud pakana man, Cody's connection to culture and Country has shaped both his personal life and career.

“I am a proud pakana man, and my story is connected to my grandparents who were born on truwana, Cape Barren Island,” Cody said.

“I learned a lot about my culture through my family, especially my mother. She’s taught me a lot about myself, who I am, my family and their background, and how I’m always connected to country.”

Cody has drawn on these foundations throughout his working life, from working as a land management ranger in the remote Furneaux Islands to supporting community programs and cultural activities.

As Men’s Program and Cultural Activities Officer with Karadi Aboriginal Corporation, Cody helped deliver cultural programs, events and on-Country activities, supported men's health and wellbeing, and shared Aboriginal culture with children.

It was his experience delivering interactive talks and workshops at childcare centres and primary schools in Hobart that sparked an interest in pursuing a career in education.

“I like the way children think and learn … because their mind and imagination are endless,” Cody said.

Having previously studied at university, Cody knew he wanted to teach but was unsure which age group he wanted to work with.

He decided to explore early childhood education, enrolling in TasTAFE's Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care.

“I wanted to upskill my knowledge to help children’s minds grow and expand their early stage of learning from a young age,” he said.

“The [TasTAFE] course has deepened my understanding of how children in daycare centres learn at different levels and at their own pace, as well as the dedication educators bring to everyday learning.”

Through a combination of classroom learning and practical work placements, Cody developed the skills and confidence to build on his experience working with children.

“This course offers both classroom learning and hands-on experience through work placements in childcare centres. It allows you to see what being a carer is really like and to practise the skills you learn during your training.”

Since graduating earlier this year, Cody has secured employment at a childcare centre and returned to TasTAFE in a new capacity, working as a cultural educator.

It's a rewarding next step that allows him to share his knowledge of Aboriginal culture with students studying in the same field that helped shape his own career direction.

His commitment to learning, culture and community was recognised at the 2026 Tasmanian Training Awards, where he was named Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student of the Year.

The award celebrates outstanding achievement in vocational education and training and the positive contribution learners make to their communities.

For Cody, the recognition is another milestone in a journey centred on sharing knowledge and creating opportunities for future generations.

“The legacy I would like to leave is one where I continue to grow and give back. I am passionate about sharing the way of life of Aboriginal people with the next generation in Hobart’s daycare centres and primary schools,” Cody said.

“My work is testament to the power of knowledge handed down from Elders and I am honoured to continue that lineage through every talk, walk, and ceremony I lead.”

Cody will now represent Tasmania as a finalist at the 2026 Australian Training Awards in Sydney on 20 November.

Congratulations Cody, and best wishes from everyone at TasTAFE!