Introduce yourself in three words or phrases.
Community advocate, lifelong learner, game changer.
What do you like most about your job?
I like many aspects about my job but most of all, I feel very grateful for a career that facilitates a work-integrated lifestyle, enabling me to complement my professional responsibilities with my personal interests (and one where I don’t have to wear a tie!).
I am in a job that I can impact change every single day. I get to help international students unlock their potential, troubleshoot challenges and nurture career and life goals. Our work in international education may be local, but our impact is global as students graduate and pursue careers and lives in different parts of the world. Seeing international students and young individuals succeed gives me a profound sense of fulfilment.
If you could learn a language instantly, which would you pick and why?
Considering I work across so many cultural groups, especially international students, my wishlist is long. However, I would pick Mandarin. Mandarin isn’t just a language, it’s a social superpower! It’s one of the most widely spoken language in the world, and not just in China. I share this with big regrets because I recall refusing to attend Chinese classes on the weekends when I was in primary school back in Malaysia.
What makes you get up in the morning?
The opportunity to make a difference. Every day is a new opportunity for me to collaborate with key stakeholders and co-design initiatives with students that are innovative and help disrupt the sector, applying contemporary approaches to traditional challenges. No day is the same, I could be running an employment roundtable one day, coordinating a fashion runway the next, giving keynote presentations at a graduation to hosting a cultural festival for thousands of people.
International student issues may now be much different from when I was a student, but the complexities have certainly evolved, so must we.
Champion/cheerleader which we should all follow and why?
It took me a while to realise that the most significant inspirations in my life are more accessible than I thought. While many would quote the likes of celebrated icons, my champions and cheerleaders are the collective of individuals who have mentored, coached and guided me throughout my time as an international student, then in my career. Many who are still doing amazing work for the sector. There are too many to name, but my advice to people is to look close for inspiration.
Best international ed conference and why?
I am somewhat biased towards AIEC 2018 in Sydney. It’s the year I was presented with the 2018 IEAA ‘Distinguished Contribution’ award, being one of the youngest as well as a former international student in Australia. The honour reflects the collaborative efforts of many, including my exceptional team (and organisation), the various community groups I am involved with and the community, especially international students that I am engaged with. It’s a testament to our shared commitment to diversity, highlighting the strength that comes from our varied backgrounds and perspectives.
The conference was extra memorable because I had the opportunity to reunite with many mentors, those who offered me unwavering support at different times of my career.
Book or podcast recommendation for others in the sector?
I could name a few industry experts and authors, but I’d rather encourage everyone to listen more to our students. Here’s a cheeky plug for everyone to listen to “Student City, Student Stories podcast” which shares real-life experiences from international students across 12 countries who are living and studying in Melbourne.
Describe a project or initiative you’re currently working on that excites you.
My team and I are working on improving work-integrated learning opportunities, internships and practical work experiences for international students to maximise their study experience. Currently we offer a range of programs from paid internship, student ambassadors (leadership) to volunteering opportunities to help students gain valuable work skills and cultural competencies, but we can do more.
Meanwhile, we are also very excited for the range of activities we have planned for new students in 2025 including the Lord Mayor’s Student Welcome event, My Melbourne program and a variety of activations at The Couch – International Student Centre programs (run in partnership with Salvation Army 614).
All these initiatives are aligned with City of Melbourne’s goal to make Melbourne the best city for student experience, for which we are currently ranked second!
