NSW International Education Awards

Minh Thiem (Evelyn) Lieu - Winner

Education institution: Canley Vale High School  

Home country: Vietnam 

Evelyn’s commitment to community service has profoundly impacted Canley Vale High School and the broader community through her leadership and dedication to inclusivity. As a key member of the Student Representative Council, Evelyn has mentored peers, advocated for international students and championed multiculturalism, despite initial language barriers. Her contributions extend to fundraising for school events, volunteering with the Sydney Children's Hospitals Foundation and supporting Vietnamese newcomers through Student Life Care.  

Jack (Qixiu) Li - Highly Commended

Education institution: Epping Boys High School 

Home country: China 

Jack is a dedicated community member who has been recognised for his outstanding achievements in leadership, academics and sport. Jack entered into the school’s honour book for his significant contributions, including leading the Interact Program since 2022 and helping new students from overseas overcome language and cultural barriers. As a Student Mentor and key organiser of numerous school events, including the 2024 World’s Greatest Shave campaign, he has demonstrated exceptional commitment to raising awareness and funds for important causes. He has also dedicated more than 200 hours of service to NSW communities, including volunteering at the Rhodes Lunar New Year Festival and participating in major fundraising runs.  

Cristina Gabriela Tacuri Garcia - Winner

Education institution: Greenwich College 

Home country: Ecuador 

Since arriving in Sydney, Cristina has enriched her academic journey while fostering a vibrant community spirit. As a dedicated volunteer with SALSA NSW, Cristina teaches dance to the elderly and supports the organisation with many different tasks. Her performance at the STARS gala for the Cancer Council showcases her proactive approach to societal issues. Cristina’s initiative to offer free salsa sessions at Greenwich College promotes cultural exchange and inclusivity. Her second place Judges Choice award at the STARS competition further emphasises her impact and dedication.

FenZhi Wen - Highly Commended

Education institution: University of Newcastle 

Home country: China  

As a student in the Advanced English for Academic Purposes program at the University of Newcastle, FenZhi contributes to campus life through the Badminton Club and the Australia-China Youth Association. FenZhi recently won a badminton championship and helped more than 10 new members to improve their skills. FenZhi also plays a key role in cultural exchange events, fostering collaboration between Chinese and Australian students. Beyond academics, FenZhi has supported more than 15 of her peers to find housing and integrate into the local community, demonstrating exceptional leadership and commitment. 

Aradhana Grover - Winner

Education institution: University of Newcastle 

Home country: India 

As a third-year Bachelor of Nursing student at the University of Newcastle, Aradhana exemplifies outstanding leadership and community engagement. She provides compassionate care as an Assistant in Nursing for NSW Health and has dedicated 2 years to working in a nursing home. Her commitment extends to mentoring international students through the Australian Mateship Program and leading the Student Nurses and Midwives Society as a podcast convenor. Aradhana also contributes to health education and community wellbeing through volunteering, enhancing both the university experience and the broader NSW community. 

Aashish Neupane - Highly Commended

Education institution: Western Sydney University 

Home country: Nepal 

Aashish is the International Student Representative on the Western Sydney University Student Representative Council and President of the International Student Association. He has championed critical initiatives and advocates for the rights and wellbeing of international students. His leadership in organising forums, weekly catchups and Culture Corner events has fostered a strong sense of community among international students. Aashish's commitment extends to mental health, mentoring and cross-campus collaborations, significantly enhancing the student experience and advocating for meaningful change.

UNSW Water Safety Program - Winner

Organisation: UNSW Sydney 

The UNSW Water Safety Program has evolved from a pilot learn-to-swim initiative to a comprehensive water safety education model that includes a beach safety walk, beach safety program and a grant scheme. Since its inception in 2018, more than 1,700 students from over 50 countries have participated, with 1,100 joining the program from July 2023 to July 2024 alone. The program’s collaborative approach with local surf clubs and community organisations fosters inclusivity, enhances students' wellbeing and empowers them through crucial water safety skills and employment opportunities. 

Redfern Legal Centre’s International Student Legal Service (ISLS) - Winner

Organisation: Redfern Legal Centre 

Redfern Legal Centre’s ISLS is the only independent legal service dedicated to the 269,000 international students in NSW. Providing free, confidential legal advice and advocacy, ISLS addresses complex socio-legal issues, enhancing students’ health and education outcomes. ISLS’s culturally tailored resources and proactive legal education empower students to make informed decisions. Their impactful collaborations include the Play Safe Program and Study NSW Jobs Connect Internship. ISLS also advocate for systemic change, such as world-first visa protections, which help to showcase ISLS’s commitment to improving international students' well-being and legal safety in NSW.