We are thrilled to announce that Zoi Petersen has been awarded the prestigious NGISA Horticulture Student of the Year! This well-deserved recognition highlights Zoi’s dedication, passion, and commitment to the horticulture industry.
Zoi’s love for gardening began at a young age, inspired by her family’s beautifully maintained garden. This early connection to plants and nature led her to pursue formal education in horticulture. She completed a Certificate II in Horticulture in 2021 and recently achieved her Certificate III in Horticulture in 2024.
Her enthusiasm for sustainable gardening and landscape development is evident in both her studies and professional work. Zoi gained valuable experience working with Maxima at the Botanic Gardens Mt Lofty, where she deepened her understanding of sustainable environments and their role in climate control. Eager to broaden her expertise, she transitioned to a new role as a Nursery and Customer Service Assistant at Beidmond Nursery, a respected wholesale nursery.
Zoi’s achievements extend beyond the classroom and workplace. She was also recognized as a recipient of the Global Footprint Scholarship, which she plans to use for professional development in wholesale nursery practices in New Zealand. Her hands-on experience in amenities gardening at Mt Lofty Botanic Gardens, combined with her growing knowledge of wholesale nursery operations, showcases her versatility and ambition within the industry.
Her journey into horticulture has been shaped by a keen interest in sustainability and innovative practices. During school, she explored aquaponics as part of a life science project, further fuelling her passion for plant science and environmental sustainability.
We are incredibly proud of Zoi’s accomplishments and her recognition as NGISA Horticulture Student of the Year. Her passion, innovation, and dedication make her a standout in the field, and we look forward to seeing her continue to thrive in the horticulture industry.
Congratulations, Zoi!
