With over 11 years of experience as a teacher and 7 of those as a careers adviser, Nivanthi is a driving force in promoting teaching as a rewarding and purpose-driven career. She brings a powerful combination of subject expertise and lived experience to her role. Accredited in science (years 7 - 10), chemistry, biology, food technology and technology mandatory, Nivanthi also holds a deep personal connection to the teaching pathway, having once been a recipient of a NSW Department of Education scholarship herself.

‘I was once in my students’ shoes,’ Nivanthi reflects. ‘Receiving that scholarship shaped my journey. Now, I can support others to walk the same path.’

Nivanthi’s guidance has directly contributed to the realisation of several students' educational aspirations. She says that ‘seeing former students step into the profession and make a difference in their own classrooms is one of the most fulfilling aspects of this role.’

These include a student who, with her support, secured a Teacher Education Scholarship and went on to become a mathematics teacher, creating a powerful full-circle moment. Similarly, a former school captain, inspired by Nivanthi’s mentorship, is now an English and history teacher in South Western Sydney.

So how does she do it? For Nivanthi, it’s all about exposure and making the profession visible. Through the facilitation of structured work experience placements with local schools, Nivanthi enables students to witness the dynamic, multi-faceted nature of teaching firsthand. Nivanthi also ensures that students can connect with universities to discuss their future career path and is collaborating with the school’s media team to produce a 'Day in the life of a teacher’ short video that will give students a modern and unique insight into the dynamic nature of a teaching career.

Beyond the careers office, Nivanthi is a proud pet parent to her cats Duchess, Diana and Henry. You might also find her cooking or baking, supporting the Sri Lankan cricket team or playing music in her office, including her go-to sing-along song APT. by Bruno Mars and Rosé.

Thank you, Nivanthi, for your dedication to our students and for inspiring the teachers of tomorrow.