UNSW students promote Sydney’s ‘hidden gems’

Six UNSW students have been selected as ambassadors for the City of Sydney in 2015 and will help promote the city's reputation as one of the world’s top destinations for international students.

Claire Goh, James Kwa, Nicholas Tay, Yaroslava Vasina, Hoi Ching Jacqueline Shiu, and Dhimas Satriyo will join 36 other international students, representing 19 countries and 15 institutions, in the International Student Leadership and Ambassador (ISLA) program.

Professor Wai Fong Chua, Pro-Vice Chancellor (students), congratulated the students on their new role at an event hosted by UNSW’s International Student Development office.

“The ISLA program is a wonderful opportunity to build connections with other international students, develop practical skills and make the most of your time in Sydney,” Professor Chua said.

Nicholas Tay, a 24-year-old Industrial Design student from Singapore, said he was excited to be part of the program and was already working on the City of Sydney 2015 Chinese New Year celebrations, including a twilight parade on Sunday 22 February.

“There is a misconception that international students just want to study rather than help out in the community. But that isn’t the case. I’m looking forward to gaining experience in a big organisation, developing my skills and contributing to society,” Nicholas said.

The program provides students with training, workshop and volunteering opportunities to enhance their leadership and project management skills. Ambassadors are selected based on their previous leadership and volunteer experience.

Former City of Sydney Ambassador Vinh Truong, who took part in last year’s program, said he feels “very proud and enthusiastic” about his role as ambassador.

“The ambassadors are a great help to new international students because they share their knowledge on how to study, find a job and discover the ‘hidden gems’ of Sydney,” Vinh said.

Dhimas Satriyo, an Australia Award recipient from Indonesia, said he was looking forward to sharing traditional cultural activities, including dance and music, with other international students.

“I am interested in building mutual understanding between students from many countries,” Dhimas said.

The City of Sydney will hold the annual Lord Mayor’s Reception for International Students at the Sydney Town Hall on Wednesday, 18 March. More information is available on the City of Sydney website.

Media contact: Leilah Schubert, UNSW Media Office, 02 9385 8107.