International student award celebrations
We're proud to present the achievements of international students at UNSW and their contribution to our community!
Join us in recognising international students and organisations
Do you know an international student or organisation that has made a positive impact in our community?
We encourage you to nominate them for the NSW International Education Awards.
The NSW International Education Awards celebrate the outstanding contribution international students make to communities in NSW and recognise excellence in international student community engagement.
🗳️ Nominations for the 2025 NSW International Education Awards have closed.
Check back soon for updates about 2026.
Selection criteria for nominations
- Student
- Organisation
NSW International Student of the Year Awards
You can nominate an international student based on the impact they made through participating in activities, events and programs that foster community connection and engagement within:
- The student's education institution (e.g. peer-to-peer support, orientation leadership, etc.)
- The broader NSW community (e.g. paid and unpaid volunteering at an organisation, local council, leadership in a community group, etc.).
These achievements or contributions must be within the annual nomination period: 1 July of the previous year to 30 June of the current year.
Demonstration of long-term engagement beyond this period is considered favourably.
NSW International Education Industry Awards
You can nominate an organisation based on the impact they made through:
- Facilitating meaningful pathways and enhancing experiences for international students in NSW in:
- Community participation
- Employability
- Accommodation
- Health & wellbeing
- Student life
- Leadership programs
- Positively impacting one or more of the following areas:
- Promoting NSW as a study destination
- Transnational partnership
- International education policy & advocacy
- Showcase collaboration & partnerships with NSW communities and industry stakeholders.
These achievements or contributions must be within the annual nomination period: 1 July of the previous year to 30 June of the current year.
Demonstration of long-term engagement beyond this period is considered favourably.
⏰ The deadline to submit your 2025 nominations has passed.
Check back soon for updates about 2026.
See also
2025 NSW International Education Awards
Ellen Jiang
Winner: 2025 NSW International Student of the Year Awards
Name:
Jiaqi (Ellen) Jiang
UNSW Degree:
Bachelor of Medical Studies / Doctor of Medicine
Statement:
"Being nominated by UNSW for the NSW International Student of the Year Award is a significant milestone in my six-year journey at the university. I am deeply grateful to everyone who has supported me along the way. During this time, I have grown both personally and professionally, working alongside inspiring faculty members and fellow students who truly embody UNSW’s values. My experience has shaped me into a confident future leader and a lifelong learner. I am committed to giving back to the international student community and to fostering a welcoming, vibrant environment where future students can thrive."
William Nguyen
Nominee: 2025 NSW International Student of the Year Awards
Name:
Nhat Minh (William) Nguyen
UNSW Degree:
Bachelor of Education (Secondary) / Fine Arts
Statement:
"Being nominated for the Study NSW International Student of the Year Award is incredibly humbling. It’s a reminder of how far I’ve come from arriving in Sydney as a shy international student to now being recognised for contributing to the community that once welcomed me. I’m grateful for the chance to represent the voices of international students and celebrate what we can achieve when we’re supported and empowered."
2024 NSW International Education Awards
Veronica Sastra
Nominee: 2024 NSW International Student of the Year Awards
Name:
Veronica Sastra
UNSW Degree:
Bachelor of Commerce and Economics
Statement:
"I am deeply honoured to be nominated by UNSW for the NSW International Student of the Year Award. I sincerely thank everyone around me for always providing me guidance and support. Being part of the New South Wales community has been integral to my growth, and I am committed to giving back to the community that has shaped me."
Water Safety Program
Winner: 2024 NSW International Education Industry Awards
Program:
UNSW Water Safety Program
Statement:
"The UNSW Water Safety Program addresses the high drowning risk among culturally and linguistically diverse communities, particularly international students, by offering practical, immersive experiences promoting generational change and beach culture inclusivity. Since its inception in 2018, the program has grown to include a range of initiatives, from learn-to-swim courses to beach safety programs, benefiting over 1700 students from more than 50 countries. Beyond learning vital water safety skills, participants enjoy making lifelong connections and forming friendships while gaining a sense of belonging in Australia. Through partnerships with researchers, surf clubs, and aquatic centres, the program fosters more significant engagement with the Australian community, building social license."
Need assistance with nominations?
For more information or guidance with preparing support material, please reach out to us via gettingstarted@unsw.edu.au.