2021–2022 international student leadership and ambassador program
Our 2021–2022 group reflect the diversity of students who study in Sydney.
The 31 leaders and ambassadors come from 14 countries, 7 educational institutions and over 31 academic disciplines.
The students will participate in the program from January 2021 to June 2022.
Macau (China)
University of Sydney
Master of Commerce
LinkedInAs an international student, I truly understand and can relate to the difficulties and challenges facing my peers during their journeys in Sydney, be it transiting to university studies, connecting with local students, or landing a job. The international student leadership and ambassador program will help me develop personally and professionally, but most importantly, to utilise these useful skills to better service and give back to Sydney’s international student community.
Sydney is one of the best cities in the world – it is modern, inclusive, full of diversity and opportunities. Meanwhile, Sydney also offers a wide range of job and volunteering opportunities, which I found are extremely valuable during my course of study abroad.
Sydney so far has exceeded my expectations. Every day is different – there’s numerous places and events to explore, you can make a lot of friends inside and outside the university. Embrace and enjoy the exciting opportunities Sydney has to offer.
Singapore
University of Sydney
Bachelor of Economics
LinkedInThrough the international student leadership and ambassador program, I want to contribute to the community by making the incoming international students feel welcome and come up with ideas and events to meet their needs. I look forward to meeting new friends.
Sydney is known for being very welcoming towards international students, where there are many opportunities waiting for us. The community is diverse and I get a chance to interact with people from all walks of life.
My experience of living and studying in Sydney has been great. Even though there was Covid-19 and classes were online, I met quite a few friends in my student accommodation and have visited quite a few iconic places in Sydney. The experience that I have gained from studying in Sydney has really helped me to grow as a person.
China
University of Technology Sydney
Bachelor of Science in Information Technology
LinkedInVolunteering provides me with a sense of accomplishment. The international student leadership and ambassador program is an opportunity for me to pursue my passion, allowing me to work with a team of like-minded peers, towards a common goal, to improve the positive experience for all international students. I wish to expand my network through the program and further develop my transferable skills.
Sydney is a place with cultural diversity, perfect weather and my favourite university.
Work hard, play harder. As a student, we must be responsible for our own learning. It does not mean be a nerd. In your free time, you should get out, socialise, take a walk, explore and enjoy Sydney.
China
University of Sydney
Bachelor of Arts and Advanced Studies
LinkedInOn finishing my first year of study and getting to know more about this magical city, now is time to give back, using my passion and skills to support international students and keep growing together through fun international student leadership and ambassador program events and projects.
Sydney offers a more relaxed lifestyle; you can chill in a cafe or go to one of the beaches. Sydney is inclusive and multicultural with many international students calling Sydney home.
It’s essential to find your self-identity as an international student. It is hard at first with different languages, different cultures and homesickness, but a whole new world will unfold for you when you step out your comfort zone and try new things. Balance your study, work and life, and then enjoy the beauty of this city!
China
University of Sydney
Master of Moving Image
LinkedInI want to contribute to international students with my student leadership experience.
Sydney has great openness to diverse cultures, religions, languages and individuals. It provides so many opportunities in the film industry as one of the most international cities around the world.
Previous volunteering and travelling experiences made me realise how Sydney people cherish and enjoy life. Sydney provides me with the opportunity to study film with the potential to meet excellent filmmakers and use the most advanced technologies.
China
University of New South Wales
Bachelor of Commerce
LinkedInI understand it can be difficult to embrace a new society with its own charm. I hope through the international student leadership and ambassador program I can help more international students to experience more of what Sydney offers.
Living in one of the most diverse cities in the world and making friends from different cultural backgrounds really helps me to broaden my horizon. Sydney is a place filled with fresh opportunities and positive energies. It has been 5 years since I first came to Sydney and it still never fails to impress me daily with friendly local Sydneysiders and extraordinary natural views.
Whether you are a local resident or simply keen to stay in Sydney for a short period of time, you will find the inner beauty of the city and its unique atmosphere. So, explore, immerse and enjoy Sydney. Grab yourself a coffee at Bondi beach and try some dim sims on Chinatown’s busy streets while on your way to visit St Andrew's Cathedral and Queen Victoria Building.
Depict your own unforgettable adventurous stories with Sydney and I hope you enjoy all of them.
China
University of Sydney
Bachelor of Commerce/Bachelor of Advanced Studies
LinkedInI‘m always interested in understanding difference and similarity between cultural backgrounds and building worldwide communication bridges. The international student leadership and ambassador program promotes diversity and belongingness within Sydney.
I chose Sydney because it’s a modern city, with quality education and career opportunities providing infinite possibilities. Moreover, Sydney is the second most liveable city in the world. The environment and weather in Sydney are tremendous for work, rest and play.
Sydney’s lifestyle is impressive. People are enthusiastic about everything and strictly obey the rules. Weekdays see people hard at work with professional attitudes. Holidays and weekends allow seaside and travel adventures to beautiful places. My experience in Sydney so far is perfect.
Sri Lanka
University of New South Wales
PhD Art, Design and Media
LinkedInThe international student leadership and ambassador program provides an excellent opportunity to enhance inter and intrapersonal skills, to develop a sense of belonging and to build a local support network. As an ambassador, I wish to continuously strive to develop my skills and use them to increase the positive experience of the student community. I have always had a keen interest in connecting with people from diverse cultures, sharing information and supporting each other for mutual growth.
I chose Sydney as my destination of study because here, cultural diversity is appreciated. In addition, world-class education is offered to all who seek it. These 2 aspects have great significance for me.
Sydney’s scenic beauty and architecture provide me with a wonderful living environment, while the research opportunities, voluntary service and exposure to diverse cultures serve to open innumerable pathways towards my development.
China
University of New South Wales
Bachelor of Material Science and Engineering
LinkedInThe international student leadership and ambassador program allows me to give back to the community, interact with people from diverse cultures, while gaining a sense of belonging and developing valuable skills.
Sydney is a charming city, with beautiful weather, countless beaches and coastal walks, but more importantly, I love the freedom you can experience and feel in this city.
3 years in Sydney has offered unforgettable unique experiences to study abroad independently. Sydney’s full of opportunities and lovely people who smile back.
Mongolia
University of Wollongong
Master of Supply Chain and Project Management
LinkedInI want to volunteer for international students and contribute to the wider community by being a part of the City of Sydney. The international student leadership and ambassador program allows me to develop my leadership and other transferable skills at the same time give me an opportunity to interact with other international leadership students and share experiences with them.
I chose Sydney because of the top universities in the world, best education and law system, opportunities for everyone. Also, there are many beautiful places you can visit during weekends and it allows students to work 20 hours a week, which gives me a chance to have a working experience while I am studying.
Sydney is the land of opportunity, consisting of people from multicultural backgrounds. The law system of the country is very organised and favourable for everyone. Also, here you can study in top universities in the world and enjoy amazing weather, friendly environment and spend your free time on the beach.
Vietnam
University of Sydney
Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Laws
LinkedInThis is my chance to advocate for the interests of international students. The international student leadership and ambassador program is my opportunity to learn how to structure my advocacy, gain exposure to leadership skills and most importantly, like-minded ambassadors.
I chose Sydney owing to its vibrance and multiculturalism. Living in Sydney entailed accepting a degree of competitiveness, this also represented vast personalities and opportunities for me. The University of Sydney allowed me to mix humanities and law which aligned with my academic aspirations.
After 2 years in Sydney, I call this city home. Living in an academic community Sancta Sophia College has introduced me to some of Sydney’s brightest talents and traditions. However, I would also strongly recommend that a common trait amongst Sydneysiders is that academic and social life here is defined by self-motivation and perseverance. From being intensively involved in work-integrated learning offered through the program and like-minded student activists at university, I found that my long-term wellbeing and friendships were dependent on getting involved. It is sometimes easy to forget that Sydney is a city of 5+ million individuals and with scale come great hurdles. So, explore your interests, persevere with your passion, find and get involved with your community.
Philippines
Macquarie University
Bachelor of Social Science, majoring in International Relations
LinkedInThe thing I really admire about the international student leadership and ambassador program is its sense of community. Program events helped me make friends! The program made my adjustment to studying in Sydney a lot easier and so much more welcoming. With this in mind, I hope that by joining the program I could help give the same, if not an even better experience, to other international students.
I chose Sydney as it was closer to my home country, the Philippines. I knew I could go outside of my comfort zone and be safe, due to the immense amount of diversity in the city, a place where they have almost everything for everyone and anyone to feel welcome and at home.
Despite starting online, I try to be involved in my university community through societies as other opportunities that come my way. My experience has been nothing but amazing as everyone I’ve met and crossed paths with has been so friendly, making me more excited for the travel ban to be lifted and finally experience the Sydney city life I’ve been dreaming of and hearing so much about.
China
University of Sydney
Bachelor of Commerce and Advanced Studies
LinkedInI’ve always had an interest in understanding the difficulties faced by international students. The international student leadership and ambassador program is a great opportunity for me to build my network and enhance my skill sets. The program provides me a platform to make a difference and enhance the capability of international students.
I perceive Sydney as Australia’s economics centre and the most energetic city in the southern hemisphere. Sydney is one of the world’s most tolerant cities for international students because of its diversity. The weather in Sydney is perfect for living and studying.
I enjoy living in a city full of unknowns and opportunities, I have always tried my best to step out of my comfort zone and be open to opportunities. At 14 I decided to study in Australia, I couldn't be more appreciative of this once-in-a-life experience in such a beautiful place. Never be afraid of making mistakes, you will never know what surprises you will gain unless you try it.
Sudan
TAFE NSW
Commercial Cookery
LinkedInI joined the international student leadership and ambassador program because I like to have an impact on society and help bring happiness into people's hearts.
I live and study in Newcastle.
Living in Newcastle is a wonderful experience, life is calm and full of opportunities to work and learn about different cultures. Sydney for me is for active fun.
Philippines
Macquarie University
Master of Engineering Management
LinkedInFascinated by learning and driven by my passion and purpose to help people, I needed to grow and develop in multiple domains, to maximise my potential as a student. The international student leadership and ambassador program will support me in gaining skills and opportunities outside my studies. I have a vision of reaching out to international students and the wider international community to develop, explore, and work together and use diversity as a positive driving force. I love learning new things and exploring, I desire to help others by creating tons of opportunities, immersing them in the local community, creating a sense of belonging, and building an impact in their lives. I want to help them explore and get access to a wide range of events while studying.
Choosing Sydney was one of the best decisions I made to pursue my postgraduate studies. Sydney has been well-known for producing many prestigious universities with quality and top academic rankings globally. It is also known for being one of the safest and top-notch cities around the world. Being a culturally diverse city that creates many opportunities for both the local and international community also made me choose to study here. Not only that, but it also has a friendly environment, which makes it easier to connect with people. For me, it has a lot of opportunities in store for all aspiring students as it is a continually fast-developing city where people can have one of the best life experiences.
As a postgraduate student, I could say I have gained substantial memorable and fun experiences in Sydney and am further creating more despite these trying times in the Covid-19 pandemic. I learned that I have to be creative in utilising all the resources I have, maintain a positive outlook, embody a growth mindset for eminent learning, and accept that there will be highs and lows that are inevitable. What's important is to always focus on the brighter side of things and how I could get back up after each fall. I also believe that we have to fully optimise our study experience and not waste every opportunity to make our education period worthwhile. I personally find that making friends, keeping in touch with your family and loved ones, and continually nurturing these relationships help keep me sane, motivated, and inspired.
Vietnam
University of Technology Sydney
Bachelor of Engineering (Honours)
LinkedInDuring my first year in university, I was given so many opportunities and encouraged to push myself out of my comfort zone, improving myself in terms of skills, mindset and network. I want to invest in and develop myself taking advantage of every opportunity. The international student leadership and ambassador program is a perfect opportunity for me to sharpen my soft skills like public speaking, communications, cultural intelligence but also a wonderful chance for me to network with like-minded peers.
I chose Sydney for the weather, diverse and inclusive cultures, safety, high employment opportunities, lively environment, good educational system – this is an ideal place for exchanging diverse cultures.
Sydney was challenging at first as I came from a very conservative culture. The support, help and warm welcome from the university and my local peers ensured an enjoyable, adventurous and inspiring experience. I needed a bit of courage, and encouragement to advance myself in the city life.
China
University of Sydney
Bachelor of Commerce
LinkedInI’ve great enthusiasm in helping international students integrate smoothly in Australia. The international student leadership and ambassador program is an excellent platform to meet those who share my passion and build the international student community together.
Sydney is diverse, inclusive and dynamic. You’ll meet people from different cultures and talk about each other’s past experiences. It is a perfect city as my destination of study.
My study experience in Sydney was all online so far due to the travel restrictions. However, I found my study experience was wonderful. I met my classmates online and some of us became good online friends, looking forward to meeting in person.
China
University of Sydney
Juris DoctorI joined the international student leadership and ambassador program for professional workplace training, especially cultural intelligence, public speaking and project management. These create a foundation for collaborating in a multicultural team environment, and great exposure for students coming from a monotonous background to the diversified city.
I chose to study in Sydney, because it is located geographically close to my home country, and it has splendid nature views. Sydney residents are well known around the world to be friendly and caring. And being an international student and part of the friendly people makes me a better person.
India
University of Technology Sydney
Masters of Information Technology
LinkedInBeing an ambassador for the City of Sydney will give me an opening to give back. Allowing me to share my journey and experiences with the ones who will find it the most useful. I believe I will get the opportunity to take up challenging leadership positions, while working with a diverse team of brilliant individuals. Such a stimulating environment can make me polish the inner mirror to better understand my own strengths, weaknesses and characteristics. Looking back at how much I have grown as an individual since arriving in Sydney is quite exhilarating; and the international student leadership and ambassador program will facilitate these goals.
Sydney is downright an ideal study destination for international students. The perfectly balanced multicultural blend made up of individuals from all around the world, giving one the chance to develop a true cosmopolitan mindset. I highly admire the quality/standard of education provided in Australia.
This amazing city is full of adventures; there is always something to do. A place to achieve your goals while having fun, there’s always more for you. The people are warm, friendly and welcoming. Being an International student does come with its challenges, but each challenge brings with itself countless opportunities to grow.
Egypt
University of Technology Sydney
Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) – Software
LinkedInThe driving force for my participation in the international student leadership and ambassador program is to contribute towards an ever-improving international student experience in Sydney from which I have learnt so much. My mind is always drawn towards my first days in Sydney and the extent to which support is provided to students who look for it. Opportunities are endless and my main goal is to use this platform to make a positive impact on everyone that our team engages with.
During my high school years, I was looking for opportunities to break out of my shell and explore my ability and potential to make a positive impact in the world and on the lives of others. Moving to Sydney has been a blessing. Sydney is second to none in terms of its cultural diversity, which means that I have had the opportunity to explore different schools of thought while acquainting myself with the most wonderful people from across the world.
I was quite an introvert before I arrived in Sydney and I feel like I was constantly looking for a spark to discover my potential. I was able to find that spark once I arrived here. Being involved with the community and consequently improving my personal and professional self has been the greatest gift to me during my time here.
Pakistan
Australian College of Applied Psychology
Bachelor of Social Work (Honours)
LinkedInThe international student leadership and ambassador program provides an incredible opportunity for personal and professional development. I am passionate about using the knowledge and my experiences to help other international students successfully integrate into Australian society.
Sydney has always been the dream destination for me. The infrastructures including Sydney Harbour Bridge and Sydney Opera House, the city life and above all the quality of education were the most attractive features.
So far, I have had quite an exciting time as a student in Sydney. Above everything, the appreciation of diversity, cultural intelligence and inclusivity has made Sydney a second home.
Indonesia
University of Sydney
Bachelor of Commerce
LinkedInI want to gain experience about work-related opportunities and make friends from different parts of the world.
Australia focuses on quality of life, very different from my home country. I want to be able to live a life I am fond and proud of. I have always believed that Sydney, will grant me this.
Everything is as I imagined. It has not been a straight path but I was able to overcome challenges step by step. Right now, I am very happy with what I have achieved, socially and personally. Opportunities are always close by, but one should seek it, not wait for it to come to you.
Mongolia
The University of Sydney
Bachelor of Liberal Arts and ScienceThe international student leadership and ambassador program provides ambassadors training to grow personally and professionally, outside of the university, such as leadership and soft skills. We will learn about the City of Sydney, develop networks to create a sense of belonging. I want to be a positive voice of international students in the community and create new opportunities while providing access to information and resources. I chose Sydney because it has a diverse culture, friendly community, world-class education, quality and variety of huge opportunities for both career and studies.
Living and studying in Sydney is one of my biggest adventures of my life. Being an international student is a very different and huge experience for me, and gives me a variety of knowledge and different kinds of feelings until now.
Laos
University of Sydney
Bachelor of Commerce (Finance and Management)
LinkedInI’m passionate about developing leadership skills and to demonstrate them as an ambassador. It’s an opportunity for me to learn to give while gaining life experiences and exploring different cultures.
I came to Sydney 5 years ago for a summer vacation; I was really impressed by the culture, and the sense of belonging. I like how there are so many cute animals that can only be seen in Australia.
Sydney has given me lots of wonderful experiences. I have built valuable relationships that I treasure Studying in Sydney has taught me lessons I wouldn’t have learned from living in the comfort of my home in Laos. Overall, choosing to study in Sydney is the best choice I have ever made.
India
University of New South Wales
Master of Commerce (Extension) – Specialising in Business Analytics and Financial Technology
LinkedInFrom a young age, I’ve had opportunities to learn about different cultures and traditions, I have lived in 8 countries and visited over 25 countries. Growing up around the globe has been fantastic. I have also faced many challenges adjusting to new environments. Hence, by being part of the international student leadership and ambassador program I wish to share my experiences with others to help them overcome obstacles. I look forward to working with like-minded students from different cultures and share experiences and thoughts so that we can grow together to bring a positive change.
I chose Sydney based on the multicultural environment, the availability of activities to do and experience and, finally, the wide range of networking and job opportunities. My experience in Sydney so far has been amazing, made great by the friendly Australian culture, the stunning coastal walks, and the many hidden waterfalls.
Myanmar
University of New South Wales
Bachelor of Medical Studies/Doctor of Medicine
LinkedInAs an international student ambassador, I aim to be the voice of the international student community and advocate for issues that are affecting them. The international student leadership and ambassador program not only provides a platform for me to support my fellow students' wellbeing but also gives me an opportunity to further develop my leadership skills, meet like-minded people, while working with a diverse group of ambassadors.
Living in Sydney over the last 2 years has been phenomenal. With beautiful weather, beaches, multicultural community and of course, top-class education, Sydney has it all.
Through the opportunities Sydney provides, I’ve become independent, have grown personally and professionally. Sydney's full of opportunities and there are no limitations to your dreams in Sydney. So, get out of your comfort zone, take on every challenge and look for those opportunities!
India
University of New South Wales
PhD in Mechanical Engineering – Clean Energy Research
LinkedInBeing an international student ambassador, I’m privileged to interact with people from different ethnicities while developing my skills ranging from organisational management to conflict handling, from resource-management to relationship development.
Sydney is home to some great research-conducting universities, which is the primary reason I chose Sydney as my destination. There are a lot of work experience opportunities. Australia’s multicultural setup, provides a chance to learn from one another – living in Sydney feels like home away from home.
Aussies are very kind and accommodating, providing a conducive atmosphere of which you become a part. Furthermore, UNSW is a great place and the uni people have been very resourceful.
Myanmar
Macquarie University
Bachelor of Commerce – Professional Accounting with Bachelor of Business Analytics
LinkedInWhen I arrived in Sydney, everything from culture to university learning systems was a shock. Fortunately I was welcomed by the amazing international student ambassadors before Covid-19 at an employment panel event. Since then, I believe that the international student leadership and ambassador program provides impactful opportunities to grow personally and professionally. The international student ambassador and leadership program is an opportunity for me to give back to the city that has invested in my education, career and personal development. I look forward to making a difference in the international students’ journey in Sydney.
I chose Sydney as my study destination because of its extensive career opportunities, high-quality lifestyle, multicultural communities, top universities and courses, beautiful national parks and beaches. I believe that Sydney will provide me with the future I’ve been dreaming of!
After 3 years of living in Sydney as an international student, the city has provided me with several memorable experiences including but not limited to meeting lifelong friends, volunteering programs, internships, opportunities, beautiful campus and high-class learning facilities.
Myanmar
University of New South Wales
Bachelor of Economics and Computer Science
LinkedInThe international student leadership and ambassador program provides me with the opportunity to contribute to events and programs designed to help international students to engage with the local community on a larger scale than I could have hoped for.
I chose Sydney because of its rich culture, vibrant city life and awesome weather, together with the fact that Sydney is one of the world's safest cities.
I've had numerous positive interactions with people, starting in the cab from the airport to uni. All the people I've encountered have been extremely welcoming and supportive. I encourage all international students (current and future) to seek out all Sydney has to offer. You will not regret it, I promise you.
Vietnam
University of Sydney
Bachelor of Design in ArchitectureThe international student leadership and ambassador program is a unique opportunity for international students to gain insights into how the City of Sydney local government works, and gain valuable knowledge about self-development, project management and career development. Hence, I shall have the ability to give back to the international student community as well as the city’s cultural diversity.
Believing in equality, benevolence and morality, I chose Sydney as my studying destination for the Bachelor of Design in Architecture.
I found my true passions here thanks to the chance to meet inspirational people, go to wonderful places, work with enthusiastic organisations. In Sydney I feel safe, respected and grounded by the sense of community (especially in the lovely Erskineville that I live in).
China
University of New South Wales
Bachelor of Social Work (Honours)
LinkedInI was a social work placement student at City of Sydney assisting the international student leadership and ambassador program 2019/20 team implement their projects. Throughout this placement experience, as an international student I valued the opportunity to learn and gain an understanding of the international student community and their unique strengths and resilience that other international students have in managing different challenges.
Sydney has always been my dream city. The pleasant weather and multicultural society are still the main reasons why I love studying and living here.
As a final year student, I’m passionate about sharing my Sydney experiences and its insights of volunteering and internship to support more international students to form their professional identity for their future career.
