Learners listen to inspirational messages about choosing a career path at the Silverlea Primary School Career Expo in Silvertown, Athlone
In August 2026, I had the privilege of participating in a Career Expo hosted by Bridgetown Library at Silverlea Primary School in Athlone, which also happened to be my alma mater. Walking back through those familiar gates was both nostalgic and deeply meaningful, as I had the opportunity to share my professional journey with the next generation of learners.
Leading the day were Librarians Micaela Victor and Robin Nicole Smith, who brought both passion and professionalism to the expo. With energy and warmth, they brilliantly showcased librarianship as a dynamic and rewarding career. Learners arrived armed with thoughtful career questionnaires and Micaela and Robin turned those questions into lively, engaging conversations. By sharing stories of their own career journeys, they not only answered curiosities but also sparked genuine excitement, successfully positioning librarianship as a profession full of purpose, impact and opportunity.
Librarians Micaela Victor and Robin Nicole Smith engaging with learners at Silverlea Primary School
My role was to highlight marketing and communications as a career choice, and more specifically, its role within Library & Information Services. For many learners, this was a new perspective and a career path they may not have considered previously. I spoke about how marketing and communications can be a natural fit for those passionate about English, writing and public speaking and how these skills can be harnessed to amplify the work libraries do in their communities.
Silverlea Primary and Blossom Street Primary learners eagerly jot down responses to their questionnaires while engaging with Bridgetown Librarians and PO: Tarcia Eiman (behind the lens)
What made the day especially memorable was reconnecting with some of the educators who once taught me and now seeing them guide a new generation of learners. To stand in front of those classrooms again, not as a student but as someone imparting knowledge and experience, was a full-circle moment I will always treasure.
The Career Expo reminded me of the power of education and mentorship and how vital it is to show young people the wide range of career paths open to them. For me, it was a chance to give back to the school that laid the foundation for my journey and to encourage learners to dream boldly, to explore possibilities and to believe in the futures they can create for themselves.
Angelo Drage joined the marketing & communications team in 2026, pictured here with a few of his incredible book designs
TE: Angelo, your journey from Library Aide to Principal Technical Assistant is the ultimate “started from the bottom, now we’re here” story! Looking back at those early days, did you always know design was your true calling, or was there a specific “aha!” moment that sparked it all?
AD: I think design was always part of me. As a child, I was constantly drawing, creating things and looking at the illustrations in books. But I don’t think there was one specific “aha!” moment. It was more a series of opportunities that confirmed I was on the right path. The biggest turning point was when Hadjira Sydow saw the designs I was sketching while I spent my days at the library looking for work. She gave me a chance to help with a display competition, and that small opportunity changed my life. It taught me that your talents can open doors when you least expect it.
TE: By now we are all aware that you’re a creative powerhouse! While working as a library aide you managed to write a book, illustrate two books, design a mascot for the Environmental Management department and assist multiple departments with their graphics! How did you balance your day job with all that creative output?
AD: I’ve never been very good at sitting still! My mind is always busy with ideas. For me, creativity isn’t work – it’s how I recharge. If someone came to me with a challenge, I saw it as an opportunity to learn something new. I would often work on projects after hours, on weekends, or whenever inspiration struck. I wasn’t focused on recognition or money; I genuinely enjoyed creating things that could help people. I always say my batteries never die, and I think that’s because I love what I do.
TE: You spent countless hours volunteering and building up an incredibly impressive portfolio. You could have gone to any department and yet you chose LIS! What is it about public service and Libraries in particular that keeps you so passionate and driven to design for our communities?
AD: Libraries changed my life. When I was at one of my lowest points, the library gave me a safe space, hope and eventually a career. So, for me, it’s personal. Libraries are one of the few places where everyone is welcome regardless of their background. Every poster, video, mascot or campaign we create has the potential to inspire someone, educate someone or simply make them feel seen. Public service allows me to use creativity for something bigger than myself and that’s what motivates me every day.
TE: Every designer has an origin story. If you had to pick one project from your massive portfolio that you are most proud of, one that was a total game-changer for your confidence, which project would it be and why?
One project that stands out is creating Onke the Otter for Environmental Planning. It was exciting to see an idea grow into a character with a purpose. Onke wasn’t just a mascot; it became a way to connect communities, especially children, to important environmental messages. It reinforced my belief that creativity can educate, inspire and bring people together. Seeing people embrace the character gave me confidence that my work could make a real impact.
TE: Your journey has been incredibly inspiring to anyone looking to make a big career leap. If you could give one piece of advice to a colleague who wants to follow their true passion and grow within the City, what would it be?
AD: Never stop learning and never wait for permission to improve yourself. If there’s something you want to do, start now. Volunteer, take online courses, ask questions, build your skills and be willing to put in the extra effort. I was fortunate to have incredible mentors throughout my journey. Tracey Muir Rix, Christelle Lubbe and Mike Klink (Chairperson and Program director of Friends of the Library) believed in me, encouraged me and challenged me to think bigger than my circumstances. Having mentors can change your life, but you also must be willing to put in the work. Most importantly, don’t let your current position define your future potential. Growth happens when you keep showing up, keep learning and keep believing that you’re capable of more.
TE: To wrap things up, what is it about our libraries that keeps you so inspired, what is your next big creative dream, and just for fun, tell us a completely random fact about Angelo Drage that LIS staff might be surprised to learn?
What inspires me most about libraries is their ability to change lives. I’ve experienced that personally. Every day we have an opportunity to make a difference in someone’s story, whether it’s through information, education, creativity or simply providing a welcoming space. My next big creative dream is to continue developing mascots and creative identities across departments because I believe storytelling and memorable characters help communities connect with important services. I’d also love to expand LiBee the Library Bee into books, animation and even a video game that encourages reading and learning.
