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8 November 2024
NSW’s top international students, education providers, businesses and community groups have been named and celebrated at the state’s prestigious 2024 NSW International Education Awards.
The awards, now in their 11th year, recognise the success and contributions of international students across NSW and celebrate organisations for their outstanding support for international education.
Two types of awards were presented:
The NSW International Student of the Year Awards recognise the contributions made by individual students to their education and broader community.
The winners and highly commended finalists across three categories were:
- Schools – Minh Thiem (Evelyn) Lieu from Vietnam, studying at Canley Vale High School and Jack (Qixiu) Li from China, studying at Epping Boys High School
- Vocational Education and Training (VET) and English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students (ELICOS) – Cristina Gabriela Tacuri Garcia from Ecuador, studying at Greenwich College and FenZhi Wen from China, studying at the University of Newcastle
- Higher Education – Aradhana Grover from India, studying at The University of Newcastle and Aashish Neupane from Nepal, studying at Western Sydney University
The NSW International Education Industry Awards recognise the contributions of education providers and organisations that support international students through programs and initiatives.
The winners across two categories were:
- Education Provider – UNSW Sydney Water Safety Program
- Partnership Excellence – Redfern Legal Centre International Student Legal Service NSW
Winners and highly commended finalists were announced on Wednesday 6 November 2024 at an awards ceremony held at the Museum of Contemporary Art, Sydney.
NSW International Student of the Year Award – Schools
Minh Thiem (Evelyn) Lieu - Winner
Evelyn Lieu, a student from Vietnam studying at Canley Vale High School is committed to servicing her peers and the broader community.
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
Jack Li, a student from China studying at Epping Boys High School has 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.
NSW International Student of the Year Award – VET and ELICOS
Cristina Gabriela Tacuri Garcia - Winner
Cristina Garcia, a student from Ecuardo studying at Greenwich College is committed to promoting societal issues.
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.
FenZhi Wen - Highly Commended
FenZhi, a student from China studying Advanced English for Academic Purposes program at the University of Newcastle, contributes to campus life through the Badminton Club and the Australia-China Youth Association.
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.
NSW International Student of the Year Award - Higher Education
Aradhana Grover - Winner
Aradhana, a student from India studying Bachelor of Nursing at the University of Newcastle 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.
Aashish Neupane - Highly Commended
Aashish, a student from Nepal studying at Western Sydney University has championed critical initiatives and advocates for the rights and wellbeing of international students.
He is the International Student Representative on the Western Sydney University Student Representative Council and President of the International Student Association. His leadership in organising forums, weekly catchups and Culture Corner events has fostered a strong sense of community among international students.
NSW International Education Industry Awards - Education Provider
UNSW Water Safety Program - Winner
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.
NSW International Education Industry Awards - Partnership Excellence
Redfern Legal Centre’s International Student Legal Service (ISLS) - Winner
Redfern Legal Centre’s ISLS is the only independent legal service dedicated to 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.
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