Fun fact

I love nature, but I am afraid of butterflies.

What has been your favourite experience in NSW?

My journey started in the language center where I started to volunteer. I then engaged with the local community and my university’s clubs and associations. For me, volunteering is one of the ways I give back to the community. It's also a way to find people who need help. 2019 has been a full and rewarding year. I won the Islamic Muslims Awards in Ramadan's Iftar from the University of Newcastle Islamic Society (UNIS). I became an executive in the Newcastle Arab Student Society (NASS) and International Student Department in Newcastle University Students’ Association. Lastly, I went to Perth to attend the CISA conference through UON Global, where I learned a lot. This event has fueled my interest and passion to serve more.

One of the best experiences this year is being a finalist in the NSW International Student Award for ELICOS category. I met many wonderful people and learned a lot from sharing conversation. It was my honor to be selected to talk with the governor. I will never forget the day of the presentation of the International Student Awards.

Where is your home country?

Sudan

What do you study?

Master of Social Changes and Development

Where do you study?

University of Newcastle

What languages do you speak?

What advice do you have for other international students?

A lot of international students don't like to be engaged because they are not confident speaking English, or knowing cultural differences. Being engaged in the community is so simple:

1. Be yourself. Be confident in your language skills;

2. Respect everyone;

3. Don't underestimate any chance;

4. Do what you love;

5. Be happy and smile;

For me, helping others and being active is the key to success and happiness.

What opportunities has studying in NSW given to you?

Studying in NSW has been a great experience. Living in NSW for a year and a half, I have learned how to have a better life and search for great opportunities. The iLEAD Plus program helped me to build a good network and turned one of my dreams into reality. I have the chance to participate in a training session in Al-Jazeera in December 2019. The CISA conference in Perth was an opportunity to learn more about international students in Australia, and to find good volunteering opportunities. Receiving two awards and being one of the finalists in the 2019 NSW International Students Award ELICOS Category opened opportunities for the future. It gives me motivation to do what I love.

Being one of the finalists of 2019 NSW International Student Award ELICOS category opens opportunities for the future, it also gives me motivation to do what I love.