Rahim Zaidi
Fun fact
I have a twin brother. I can cook and I love biryani. Cricket is my favorite sport. I simply love to serve humanity.
What has been your favourite experience in NSW?
When I was selected to be the Master of Ceremonies for the "Night of Stars"; the biggest annual event of UNSW Global. It was the first time a student was allowed to host the event. It was an incredible experience as the auditorium was full with more than 500 attendees. It was a night that I will never forget.
What advice do you have for other international students?
I would highly recommend that all international students should get involved in volunteering opportunities. Set goals, take initiative and ask for help. Remember to always be yourself and never lose hope. You will succeed, not immediately but definitely.
Where is your home country?
Pakistan
What do you study?
Bachelor of Community Services
Where do you study?
UNSW Sydney/Sydney School Of Entrepreneurship/Stott's College
What languages do you speak?
Urdu, English
What opportunities has studying in NSW given to you?
NSW has given me several great opportunities. Starting from when I came to Australia in 2017, I did my Foundation Studies at UNSW where I also volunteered for the first time in Australia. I helped new international students by guiding them on campus tours and orientations.
While playing cricket for UNSW Global I was given an opportunity to do internship with Cricket NSW which was one of the best experiences I’ve had as it elevated my confidence to the next level. After my first semester I was made a Health Ambassador with Medibank through which I was able to assist students with their mental wellbeing and study load issues. I was honored to deliver a speech on the behalf of Student Services Department on the Orientation Day of UNSW Global to over 700 attendees.
In 2018 I started volunteering at the Study NSW International Student Welcome Desk at Sydney Airport. The program just didn't boost my confidence but also improved my interpersonal skills. I also became a Sydney Ambassador for the City Of Sydney. Through this opportunity, I was able to interact with many diverse groups of people from all over the world, fostering a deeper understanding of their culture and history.
Additionally, I received an opportunity to study a course named "The Navigator" at the Sydney School of Entrepreneurship, which was the first step towards my entrepreneurship journey. In April I was the only international student selected from all over NSW for an international boot camp to Stockholm, Sweden. This was a life changing moment for me.
I was also selected as an Event Manager for CISA which provided me a platform to speak on the behalf of international students in Australia. I also became a Beach Safety Advisor for Surf Life Saving NSW.