The Bendigo Business Excellence Awards nominations are a double joy for the Bendigo Student Association with both the CEO and president named as finalists in two preistigious award categories.

CEO Mitch Trevena, and president, youth councillor of Bendigo and ambassador La Trobe University Natasha Romas have each been recognised for their impact in their roles.

An association spokesperson said the nominations are both humbling and exciting.

"From the BSA business perspective it recognises that the work we do each day to make student life better is valued, important, progressive and integral to student success," a spokesperson said. "It also demonstrates our role in connecting students to the greater Bendigo community and the importance we place on fostering relationships between the University and the wider regional business community."

This advertising feature is sponsored by the following business:

For Mitch, being a finalist is both an honour and a privilege. To be recognised within the community that she chooses to work, live and raise her family reinforces that the work she is doing for students at La Trobe University Bendigo is vital to their success and uni journey.

It also recognises her drive to be a champion for change and an advocate for current and emerging women leaders in the region and within the student services higher education sector. As her work is intricately entwined with that of La Trobe, she also sees this as a great opportunity to promote the work of the university within the city and broader region.

For Natasha, it validates her position as a young professional in Bendigo.

It is an unconventional way to begin a professional journey, but has given her a wealth of experience far beyond her years. She hopes that by being a finalist will encourage other young people to value their impact and view their contributions to business as 'professional'.

She sees this finalist nomination as an opportunity for more businesses to allow young people into boardrooms and to trust that they can make informed and valuable contributions.

The Bendigo Student Association has operated for 31 years and continues to encourage social, cultural, sporting, political and intellectual activities amongst students at La Trobe University Bendigo.

As the independent student representative voice, it advocates for all students in matters affecting their interests and privileges and provide a recognised and respected means of communication between students and the university.

Find BSA at Gate 4, Edwards Road, Bendigo - La Trobe University Bendigo.