Jordan Ivey

NCP Indigenous Alumni Ambassador

University: Southern Cross University

NCP host location: Fiji

LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/36ChVUW

Jordan is a New Colombo Plan Scholar completing his final semester of a Bachelor of Marine Science and Management at Southern Cross University, continuing onto his honours in 2020.

In 2019, Jordan finished a one-year study component in marine science at the University of the South Pacific, Fiji. He is interning at Reef Explorer on Fiji's Coral Coast, where he will be researching the impacts of coral reef restoration on coral associated reef fish. He will also be assisting in research focusing on coral spawning, coral taxonomy and marine protected areas.

Jordan will also be undertaking an internship with the Institute for Marine Research in 2020 in the Philippines, as a research assistant attaining and processing marine data for Dauin's long-term coral reef management. The data collected will be used in initialising marine conservation and communicating with local stakeholders through community outreach programs.

Tahlia Arrowsmith

NCP Indigenous Alumni Ambassador

University: The University of New England

NCP host location: Bhutan

LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/2K11I1S

Tahlia is a proud Gamilaraay woman from Coonamble, NSW. She is currently in her third year of Bachelor of Education (k-6) at The University of New England (UNE).

Tahlia is a New Colombo Plan Mobility Grant recipient who was selected to undertake a short study program in Bhutan as a student teacher. Tahlia had many amazing experiences throughout her study trip to Bhutan. She intends to take the memories, learnings and values she learnt on her trip with her throughout her journey as a future Indigenous teacher.

As an NCP Mobility Grant recipient, Tahlia looks forward to travelling and meeting new people. She looks forward to graduating in 2021 and representing UNE as an NCP Indigenous Alumni Ambassador to broaden her knowledge further in Education.

Emma Chen

University: The Australian National University

NCP host location: South Korea

LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/2Nub8Fw

Emma is completing a Bachelor of International Security Studies and a Bachelor of International Relations at the ANU. She has a passion for international affairs and foreign policy, particularly when it relates to Australia's ties with Asia-Pacific states.

Through a New Colombo Plan Mobility Grant, Emma had the opportunity to study at Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU) in Seoul for its 2017 International Summer Semester. At SKKU, Emma studied Creativity, Innovation and Design, as well as Korean language. During her time in Seoul, she immersed herself in Korean society and tradition.

Following this, Emma became involved in facilitating Australia-South Korea relations through her role as SNS Supporter for the Embassy of the Republic of Korea to the Commonwealth of Australia. Emma has also studied Mandarin, and promotes grassroots relations in the Australia-China space in working with the Australia-China Youth Association. Her international experiences have been invaluable, and continue to drive her career ambitions.

Rund Al Nasser

University: University of Canberra

NCP host location: Vietnam

LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/2CtTWJD

Rund is in her final year of her Bachelor of Building and Construction Management at the University of Canberra and is currently working with FDC Construction and Fitout ACT as a cadet. As part of her 2016 New Colombo Plan Mobility program she was very interested in the trade opportunities between Asia-Pacific region and Australia, and more importantly its influence on the construction sector.

During her NCP program, Rund had the opportunity to research the construction sector in Vietnam and Singapore, and compare them to Australia's, highlighting key cultural differences and how they affected processes. Rund will be an NCP Alumni Ambassador for 2019-2020 aiming to encourage students to step outside their comfort zones, specifically females in the industry!

Dylan Male

University: Charles Sturt University

NCP host location: Papua New Guinea

LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/2qvpP1S

Dylan was the 2019 New Colombo Plan Fellow to Papua New Guinea (PNG) and studies a Bachelor of Agricultural Science (Honours) degree through Charles Sturt University.

Dylan began his time in PNG by undertaking an internship with Wafi-Golpu Joint Venture (WGJV), attached to Newcrest Mining who were his NCP private-sector sponsor. During this internship, Dylan worked with WGJV's External Affairs and Social Performance department with a focus on agri-business partnerships and community affairs.

Following his internship, Dylan spent a semester at the PNG University of Technology (Unitech). During his time at Unitech, Dylan undertook his honours research project, completed coursework and engaged in Tok Pisin language training.

As an NCP Alumni Ambassador, Dylan looks forward to continuing in helping to strengthen Australia's relationship with our closest neighbours through advocating the value of study in the Indo-Pacific and sharing his own unique experience.

Nick De Bres

University: Macquarie University

NCP host location: Brunei Darussalam

LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/2NRbZPu

Nick is completing a double degree of a Bachelor of Arts (Politics) with the Degree of Bachelor of Laws at Macquarie University where he is also participating in the Global Leadership Program.

Nick was the 2019 New Colombo Plan Fellow for Brunei Darussalam where he completed a semester exchange at Universiti Brunei Darussalam, volunteered at SMARTER Autism Brunei, as well as undertook a Mentorship and participated in diplomatic and cultural events with the Australian High Commissioner, Her Excellency Nicola Rosenblum. He went on to intern in corporate governance and sustainability at KPMG Singapore for two months before completing his NCP Program.

Nick has a passion for diplomacy, youth leadership, mental health and disability care. Among his notable achievements, he has been recognised as a Queen's Young Leader and Associate Fellow of the Royal Commonwealth Society.

Janice Lai

University: University of New South Wales

NCP host location: South Korea

LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/2NWK1Sy

Janice is currently completing a Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering (Honours) and Bachelor of Music at the University of New South Wales.

As an NCP Scholar in 2018, she undertook a month of intensive Korean language training in Seoul and studied mechanical engineering at the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) for one semester.

In 2019 she undertook a six-month internship at Worley in Singapore with the mechanical engineering team. She worked on the engineering and procurement stages of multiple projects in the energy and resources sector. After her studies, Janice intends to work as an engineering consultant, a role which she hopes will give her opportunities to work on overseas projects.

Stanford Lee

University: University of New South Wales

NCP host location: South Korea

LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/33CEIhL

Stanford is completing his Bachelor of Commerce/Economics at the University of New South Wales.

Stanford was a 2018 New Colombo Plan Scholar to the Republic of Korea. As part of his program, he studied abroad at Korea University in 2018 and completed intensive language training in Seoul and Busan. He undertook a second semester in South Korea at Yonsei University in 2019.

In 2019, Stanford also lived and worked across Singapore and Japan over eight months, completing internships with PwC as a consulting analyst and with Fidelity Investments as an equity research analyst.

Stanford is passionate about advancing Australia's relationships within the Asia-Pacific region and aspires to pursue a career abroad involving this. He is particularly interested in exploring cross-border entrepreneurship and venture capital in East Asia.

Tyler Thurston

University: University of Newcastle

NCP host location: China

LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/2WTZcQh

Tyler is studying a combined program of Bachelor of Business, Bachelor of Innovation and Entrepreneurship, majoring in International Business at the University of Newcastle.

In 2018, Tyler completed an industry study tour through China funded by a New Colombo Plan Mobility Grant, followed by an internship in Tokyo, Japan with a startup tourism firm.

Tyler has spent the second half of 2019 studying the Asian business environment, politics and ethics at the City University of Hong Kong. He hopes to implement lessons learnt abroad into the development of social enterprises that meet the changing needs of emerging economies in the Asia-Pacific.

Tyler plans to mobilise students through New Colombo Plan opportunities to gain a greater appreciation and understanding of the opportunities afforded in the Asia- Pacific region.

Abigail Elza Widjaja

University: The University of Sydney

NCP host location: South Korea

LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/33sW6oY

Abigail will soon complete her Bachelor of International and Global Studies degree, where she majors in Government and International Relations and Indonesian Studies.

Her first New Colombo Plan Mobility program was to a field school on Women's Empowerment in Jakarta and Makassar, Indonesia in 2016. In 2017, a second NCP Mobility program took her to Bandung, Indonesia for a semester exchange at Universitas Katolik Parahyangan, followed by an internship at the Australian Consulate-General Bali, Indonesia. Abigail is fluent in Bahasa Indonesia.

As a 2019 New Colombo Plan Scholar, Abigail spent six months interning as an Assistant Associate in PwC Singapore's Growth Markets Centre (2018) and undertook an exchange program at Yonsei University in Seoul, Republic of Korea as well as language training for Korean (2019).

Jennifer Yang

University: The University of Sydney

NCP host location: Indonesia

LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/32uvySO

Jennifer is completing her second year of a Bachelor of Arts/Advanced Studies Degree at the University of Sydney, majoring in International Relations and Art History while concurrently enrolled in a Language Diploma minoring in Bahasa Indonesian.

She is expected to complete her New Colombo Plan Mobility program at the University of Indonesia by January 2020. During her time in Indonesia she has undertaken an intensive language program in Bahasa Indonesian while completing coursework focusing on sociological studies in an Indonesian context.

Having been immersed in Indonesian culture through in-country study, voluntary work and travel, Jennifer hopes to pursue a career that further facilitates soft diplomacy and cross-cultural dialogue between Australia, Indonesia and the wider Indo-Pacific region upon her return.

Isabella Liu

University: University of Technology Sydney

NCP host location: Thailand

LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/2Nqa70Y

Isabella is a recent graduate from a Bachelor of Design in Visual Communication at the University of Technology Sydney and currently undertaking her Diploma in Languages in 2020. She also works as a Marketing and Communications Coordinator at uberbrand in Sydney, Australia.

As a 2019-2020 NCP Alumni Ambassador, she hopes to encourage students currently studying to make the most of their university experience with overseas experiences and to push themselves out of their comfort zones.

Embarking on a number of programs from language exchanges to entrepreneurship & innovation abroad, volunteering and sustainability programs, Isabella undertook her NCP Program in Thailand 'Designing for Social Change' for a Northern rural village of Pha Pang in Thailand focusing on sustainable tourism.

Lekha Lankela

University: University of Wollongong

NCP host location: South Korea

LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/34RsbXV

Lekha is completing a Bachelor of Law and Commerce (Accountancy) at the University of Wollongong.

She was a recipient of the New Colombo Plan Mobility Grant in early 2018 and completed a semester exchange in Seoul, South Korea. The experience was invaluable and allowed her to appreciate the importance of cross-cultural communication in our modern society.

In late 2018, the New Colombo Plan Mobility program further allowed Lekha to undertake an internship at the multi-national law firm, Shook Lin and Bok, in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The internship was a learning opportunity that provided Lekha with professional experience which aligned with her future aspirations of pursuing a career focused on fostering international relations. Lekha is involved in promoting cross-cultural communication at her university through involvement in various clubs and activities.

Duc-Huy (Johnny) Nguyen

University: Western Sydney University

NCP host location: India

LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/2O3u39h

Johnny studies a combined Law/Commerce degree at Western Sydney University. His New Colombo Plan Mobility program involved creating a Social Media Marketing strategy for GiveIndia, one of India's largest not-for-profits. The academic component of his program was undertaken at St Xaviers College. This program allowed Johnny to learn about the social fabric of India through both academic and practical lenses.

Throughout Johnny's university career, he has undertaken eight global experiences including semester exchanges, internships, short courses, conferences and competitions – six of which were in the Indo-Pacific. He is driven by curiosity about other cultures and the desire to build a diverse/adaptable mindset. This adaptability has translated into situations outside of the Indo-Pacific. For example, Johnny was recently a semi-finalist in the UK's national Commercial Awareness Competition.

Since returning, Johnny has been able to leverage his international experiences to secure competitive professional experiences. He has undertaken internships with Cisco, Goulburn Local Court and Ashurst.

Michael Puntillo

University: Western Sydney University

NCP host location: China

LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/2WTvevK

Michael is completing a Bachelor of Humanitarian and Development Studies at Western Sydney University where he has had the opportunity to participate in six global experiences consisting of semester exchanges, internships, conferences and study tours across the Indo-Pacific region.

In 2017, he completed a 5-week internship for a tourism agency in Dalian, China whilst completing Chinese language classes.

During 2018, Michael participated in a 3-week program on the theme "Promoting Gender Justice through Engagement, Education & Empowerment" at the Centre for Human Rights & Duties, Panjab University, Chandigarh, India.

Earlier this year he worked with Project Everest Ventures in Blantyre, Malawi completing research and distributing home solar solutions within a small group start-up.

Katie Hicks

University: Charles Darwin University

NCP host location: Fiji

LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/2K1QSZs

Katie is in her final year of a Bachelor of Applied Social Science (Indigenous Knowledges) at Charles Darwin University in Darwin.

As a 2017 recipient of the New Colombo Plan Scholarship, she studied Sociology at the University of the South Pacific. Following her semester, she interned as a Community Development Worker for an NGO, focusing on the development of important livelihood strategies in remote Fijian villages.

Katie is passionate about Indigenous knowledges, Indigenous languages, social policy, and community development. She works fulltime within the youth services sector, while completing the final year of her undergraduate degree. Originally from country NSW, Katie has now lived in the Northern Territory for six years, allowing her to develop close engagements with many different people and cultures, and she hopes to continue with this learning here in the Northern Territory and across the Indo-Pacific region in the years to come.

Jasmine Valcic

University: Bond University

NCP host location: Thailand

LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/32ryqQv

Jasmine is from Melbourne originally, and is in her final year of a Bachelor of Laws/Bachelor of International Relations at Bond University on the Gold Coast.

As 2018 New Colombo Plan Fellow for Thailand, Jasmine completed a semester of study at Mahidol University International College. While studying in Thailand, Jasmine also volunteered with ReliefWeb, a United Nations digital service providing up to date humanitarian information.

After her studies she also undertook internships in Manila, Philippines with Austrade, and in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia with the Australian High Commission. At the High Commission, Jasmine was in the Public Diplomacy and Policy Support division, within the Political and Economic section.

Jasmine is passionate about international diplomacy and relations, with a particular interest in public diplomacy and soft power approaches.

Bridie McDade

University: CQUniversity Australia

NCP host location: India

LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/2PT2Okd

Bridie is completing a Bachelor of Nursing degree at CQUniversity. Through a New Colombo Plan Mobility Grant, Bridie was able to attend a CQUGlobal Outbound clinical placement in India in November 2019, further developing a culturally safe nursing practice to bring to the diverse workspace that is the current healthcare setting of Australia.

Currently employed by CQUniversity as Change Champion Ambassador, Bridie takes great pride in driving for social innovation, with a personal focus on universal access to health services. Bridie is also appointed to the executive committee of the National Rural Health Student Network's Club RHINO, a student led group promoting both the issues and opportunities of the rural and remote healthcare setting of North Queensland.

Bridie looks forward to completing a Bachelor of Nursing degree while continuing to actively represent her university within the local community of Townsville, throughout rural and remote Queensland and across the Indo-Pacific region.

Grace Manahan

University: Griffith University

NCP host location: Singapore

LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/33ua4H0

Grace is a penultimate undergraduate student at Griffith University, studying a Bachelor of Laws / Bachelor of Government and International Relations.

In 2017, Grace received a short-term Mobility Grant to complete a short cultural program at Meiji University, and an internship with INPEX Corporation, in Tokyo, Japan.

In 2018, Grace received a New Colombo Plan Scholarship and completed an 18-month program in Singapore. She undertook internships with PricewaterhouseCoopers and King and Wood Mallesons. Her study component included two semesters at the National University of Singapore's Faculty of Law. Areas of study included international projects and construction, alternative investments, investor-state dispute resolution, arbitration and international terrorism. Grace's favourite way to network in Singapore was through sport, playing for corporate and social teams.

Grace describes her NCP experience as 'nothing short of life changing' and looks forward to continuing her engagement with the Indo-Pacific in her role as an Alumni Ambassador.

Zachary Look

University: Griffith University

NCP host location: Indonesia

LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/2JZBE7u

Zachary is undertaking a Bachelor of Government and International Relations at Griffith University in Brisbane with majors of Politics and Public Policy, and Bahasa Indonesia.

In 2019, Zachary studied at Gadjah Mada University as a New Colombo Plan Scholar. He took social and political science classes taught entirely in Bahasa Indonesia; learning alongside regular Indonesian students.

During his time as an NCP Scholar, Zachary also undertook an internship at a Thai Government Agency in Bangkok where he completed research projects to advise the Thai Parliament and Government Ministries on social inequality and emerging forms of democratic representation. He also studied Thai Language in Bangkok.

Zachary holds strong interests in political representation, and agricultural policy, especially in South-East Asia. He hopes to work in these fields in the future.

Emily Gray

University: James Cook University

NCP host location: Thailand

LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/36IvW3B

Emily is in her final year studying Master of Social Work (Professional Qualifying) at James Cook University Cairns. Emily has a degree in Bachelor of Business majoring Human Resource Management.

In 2018, Emily was fortunate to travel to Thailand under a New Colombo Plan Mobility Grant for short-term studies on cross-cultural community base projects and social work education. This was in collaboration with Nakhon Ratchasima Rajabhat University and the local community in Khorat, which is in the north-eastern province of Thailand.

This experience cemented Emily's passion for social work in the areas of community development settings with people of diverse backgrounds and learning about different cultures.

With her social work education, she wishes to advocate social justice and human rights in alleviating cultural oppression and focus on positive change in diversity, multiculturalism and equality.

Emma Cockburn

University: Queensland University of Technology

NCP host location: Hong Kong

LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/2Nq9Gni

Emma is a fourth-year Bachelor of Law (Honours) and Bachelor of Business (Economics) student at Queensland University of Technology.

In 2018, through a New Colombo Plan Mobility Grant, Emma completed a social justice internship with the Bhutanese National Legal Institute (BNLI). She developed and delivered legal capacity-building workshops about 'access to justice' to Bhutanese school students and teachers. These workshops were informed by meetings she had with BNLI, judges, the Attorney General and the Bhutanese Princess.

In 2019, she had the opportunity to complete a semester exchange at City University of Hong Kong (CityU). During her exchange, she was awarded Best Delegate of the Economic and Social Council at the CityU Model United Nation Conference and she volunteered at the 'Best Practices in Community Legal Education' Conference. After her exchange, she studied Mandarin at the Taiwan Mandarin Institute in Taipei. She has competed at international business competitions in Spain, New Zealand, Hong Kong and Germany. She would like to combine her legal and commercial mindset through leadership and advocacy in her future career.

Krishore Subramaniam

University: Queensland University of Technology

NCP host location: Taiwan

LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/2Kfxt7N

Krishore is currently in his third year for a Bachelor of Engineering at the Queensland University of Technology, majoring in Mechatronics and Software Engineering.

During his core New Colombo Plan Scholarship Journey, he spent a year studying robotics, computer science and Chinese language courses at National Taiwan University, while acting as co-president for the Australia Taiwan Youth Association.

He also interned with Trade and Investment Queensland in Japan and by further leveraging connections through the New Colombo Plan professional network, was able to gain experience in the areas of banking, technology consulting and robotics development in Singapore, Taiwan and India.

Now having experienced a vast range of cultures and industries, he aims to return to university and complete his studies in Mechatronics Engineering, to build the technical skills necessary to tackle the current trends in technology innovation in the Indo-Pacific.

Anastasia Laczko

University: The University of Queensland

NCP host location: South Korea

LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/2O3wicH

Anastasia is completing a double degree in Mechatronic Engineering and Information Technology at the University of Queensland. In 2017, Anastasia received a short-term NCP Mobility Grant to study Innovation and Entrepreneurship in China. The following year, she returned to China to complete a sponsored internship at a Shanghai start up.

In 2019, Anastasia was a New Colombo Plan Scholar for South Korea, and during her scholarship program she undertook a robotics-focused internship in India and then studied for a semester in South Korea at the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology.

Lacey O'Brien

University: The University of Queensland

NCP host location: Indonesia

LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/36Oo14K

Lacey is studying a Bachelor of Sustainable Agriculture with a major in Livestock and Poultry Science, through the Gatton campus of The University of Queensland. In 2019, with the assistance of a New Colombo Plan Mobility Grant, Lacey travelled to Indonesia as part of a short course on Tropical Agriculture as part of her degree, where she gained insights on the production of livestock and various crops in a tropical setting and learnt how it differs to production in Australia.

Lacey is passionate about agriculture and the associated sciences, and as a 2019-20 NCP Alumni Ambassador, she hopes to promote the opportunities that Australian students can have through the NCP to learn more about the Indo-Pacific region.

Amy Cavanagh

University: The University of Southern Queensland

NCP host location: China

LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/34A9aJc

Amy is completing her Bachelor of Arts degree at the University of Southern Queensland, majoring in International Relations and Chinese. She undertook an intensive Mandarin program in Beijing in 2017/18 with the aid of the New Colombo Plan Mobility Grant and has since had the opportunity to study abroad in Germany where she completed an intensive course focused on international law.

As environmental sustainability coordinator at Officeworks Toowoomba, she has worked on implementing strategies to reduce waste and help the store achieve its environmental targets. She is also undertaking a Diploma in French at the University of New England. She would like to work on further engaging the Asia-Pacific with the sustainability targets set by the United Nations.

Having recently returned from her second trip to Beijing in August of 2019, she has developed a particular interest in Chinese environmental policy and believe in broadening the dialogue between Australia and its neighbours in terms of climate action.

Raymart Walker

University: University of Sunshine Coast

NCP host location: Japan

LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/2WRIcdo

Raymart is completing a Bachelor of International Studies at the University of the Sunshine Coast (USC), with majors in International Relations, Politics, and Japanese.

A 2017 recipient of the New Colombo Plan Scholarship, Raymart returned to Australia in August 2019 after living, studying and working in Japan for over 16 months.

In Japan, Raymart undertook two exchanges studying Japanese and International Relations at Hokkaido University and Akita International University. He also interned at the Australia and New Zealand Chamber of Commerce Japan (ANZCCJ) and in the education section of the Australian Embassy, Tokyo. In July 2019, Raymart was one of 14 attendees representing Australia at the 5th ASEAN Foundation Model ASEAN Meeting (AFMAM) in Bangkok.

Raymart is passionate about fostering Australia/Indo-Pacific relationships – especially with Japan and South-East Asia. His diverse experiences have inspired him to encourage others in his regional community to pursue study exchanges in the Indo-Pacific.

Phola Ramos

University: Flinders University

NCP host location: Malaysia

LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/32li8Zq

In 2019, Phola will be completing her Honours with a project in collaboration with Forensic Science South Australia in a Bachelor of Forensic Science, and in 2020 will further expand her research in the form of a PhD.

Spending the first three weeks of 2018 in Malaysia UKM Bangi and Langkawi, Pholas' NCP short term Mobility Grant focussed on investigating the History, Culture, Politics and Science and Technology Capabilities of Malaysia. From this trip, it allowed her to reconnect with her South-East Asian heritage and culture through another perspective. In this trip, Phola appeared on Good Morning Malaysia TV to provide the student perspective and benefits of participating in a New Colombo Plan Program.

Phola is heavily involved in student life in her home university at Flinders being a Student Ambassador, a Casual Academic, and a President of an Academic Association.

Lachlan Cameron

University: The University of Adelaide

NCP host location: Nepal

LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/2rAiej9

Lachlan is in his fourth year of a Bachelor of Laws & Commerce (International Business) degree at the University of Adelaide. During 2019, Lachlan travelled to Dhulikhel, Nepal, with the assistance of a New Colombo Plan Mobility Grant. As part of the program, Lachlan worked in collaboration with a local community organisation, working on a variety of sustainable, community-focused and impactful projects, ranging from engineering solutions, to community engagement and development.

Lachlan is excited to work on fostering stronger relationships between the university, various stakeholder groups and our Asia-Pacific region. Lachlan is particularly enthusiastic about social entrepreneurship and justice, and hopes to work in the Asia-Pacific region combining these two passions.

Bianca Hoffrichter

University: The University of South Australia

NCP host location: Vietnam

LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/2PZJa62

Bianca is a recent graduate with a Bachelor of Visual Arts who is undertaking an Honours in Visual Arts at the University of South Australia. Her work and research aim to interrogate the role of culture in the contemporary art space and the ways in which this creates cross-cultural dialogue as well as the role of artists in creating contemporary culture.

As the New Colombo Plan Vietnam Fellow for 2018, Bianca undertook study in Fashion, Visual Effects and Digital Design at RMIT Vietnam. During her program she also undertook a three month residency at the Muong ethnic museum and worked with both the Vietnamese Women's museum and Australian Embassy to create an exhibition about single-use plastics. Bianca will be the University of South Australia NCP Alumni Ambassador for 2019-20.

Freja Svendsgaard

University: University of Tasmania

NCP host location: Fiji

LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/33qx4qA

Freja is completing a Bachelor of Applied Science (Marine Environment) majoring in Aquaculture at University of Tasmania.

Through receiving the New Colombo Plan Scholarship, Freja went to Fiji in 2018 and undertook a semester of study at University of the South Pacific (USP), focusing on aquaculture and marine science in the region.

After the semester at USP, Freja interned with SPC in their Fisheries, Aquaculture and Marine Ecosystems (FAME) division. Here she worked with fish farmers and was part of a FAME/USP study on consumers' willingness to buy bundled tilapia. This increased her passion for aquaculture and developing a sustainable fishing industry, so that in the future we do not rely on wild catch for our seafood.

Freja is planning on undertaking my Honours in Aquaculture at University of Tasmania once she graduates from her Bachelor degree this year.

Grace Corcoran

University: Australian Catholic University

NCP host location: The Federated States of Micronesia

LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/32mzx3S

Grace studies a double bachelor degree in Applied Public Health and Global Studies at the Australian Catholic University.

During her New Colombo Plan Scholarship, Grace studied Micronesian Studies at the College of Micronesia in Pohnpei, the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM). She was the first New Colombo Plan Scholar to be located in the FSM. During her time in Pohnpei she completed an internship in the Pohnpei Public Health Hospital and helped organise the first ever Pride walk in the Federated States of Micronesia.

Grace also completed an internship with Women and Democracy in the Maldives, which focused on women and youth empowerment. She also undertook an internship with the Brien Holden Vision Institute in Sri Lanka, working on access to health care in slum communities. Finally, she interned at The Asia Foundation in the Philippines where her work entailed a variety of projects in the field of human rights.

Alana Bird

University: Deakin University

NCP host location: Malaysia

LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/2NpqVVT

Alana is a final year student of a Bachelor of International Studies/ Commerce (Economics) at Deakin University.

After first realising her interest in engaging with the region through a short-term Mobility program in Bangkok during her first year of studies, Alana undertook her New Colombo Plan Scholarship in Malaysia.

Concurrently, with her studies in Malaysian Borneo, Alana worked briefly with a local NGO on women's economic empowerment. Continuing to pursue her passion for international development, Alana completed internships at the Australian High Commission in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia and the United Nations Capital Development Fund in Yangon, Myanmar, where she worked on government reform of financial systems and expanding financial inclusion.

Having attended various regional events and conferences during her program, Alana wishes to continue engaging with the ASEAN region, striving for enhanced regional cooperation and development.

Nick McConville

University: Deakin University

NCP host location: India

LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/2WQVqY0

Nick is in the final year of his Bachelor of Laws/Bachelor of Commerce (Economics) at Deakin University.

As the 2018 New Colombo Plan Scholarship Fellow for India, Nick completed a semester of study at O.P Jindal Global University. After completion of his study, Nick undertook legal internships with the Centre for India-Australia Studies, Shardul Amarchand Mangaldas (top tier commercial law firm), and Infosys Ltd. Throughout these experiences, Nick was able to contribute to high profile matters in international investor dispute settlement, data privacy governance and corporate social responsibility.

Outside of interning and study, Nick played competition cricket and soccer for local Delhi teams each week. In February 2019, Nick also travelled to Washington D.C. to represent India in the GAI International Anti-Trust Law Moot.

After recently returning to Australia in August 2019, Nick is taking a short break, connecting with his family in his home town of Bairnsdale. Nick looks forward to implementing his newly developed skills from his NCP India journey during his upcoming seasonal clerkships with Clayton Utz and MinterEllison.

Michelle McGill

University: Federation University

NCP host location: Timor-Leste

LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/2NpT6Ef

Michelle has recently finished her second year of a Bachelor of Geoscience specialising in Geology, at Federation University Australia, Mt Helen campus in Ballarat Victoria.

During the year as part of her degree, Michelle had the opportunity to undertake a short-term program, working alongside local University students and Geologists on the island of Timor-Leste.

The program focused on working with the non-profit organisation 'In harms way' which educates locals about the risks of natural disasters in their region. Focusing on how harm can be decreased or avoided using geological knowledge. During the program, Michelle worked in conjunction with university students from Australia, Timor-Leste and local experts to provide training on protecting and communicating mitigation techniques for earthquake and tsunami hazards, for communities that are most in danger of natural hazards in Timor-Leste.

Michelle's research interests include in tectonic geomorphology, igneous petrology and sedimentology, she aspires to do further research within these fields.

Emily Abdilla

University: La Trobe University

NCP host location: Malaysia

LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/33yPMwk

Emily is a penultimate year student studying a Bachelor of Laws and a Bachelor of Criminology at La Trobe University. Whilst studying, she works full-time at a boutique Law Firm and in the Non-Disclosure team at MLC Life Insurance. On a casual basis, Emily also volunteers with the Victorian Women Lawyers as well as the Australian Lawyers for Human Rights.

Emily undertook her New Colombo Plan Mobility program in early 2019, as a Legal Intern at Amnesty International, Malaysia.

Whilst in Malaysia, Emily assisted with research, media reporting and the organisation of a number of events including the Death Penalty Conference held at Monash University's Malaysian campus where she had the opportunity to learn about international human rights law.

Oliver Gagiero

University: Monash University

NCP host location: Myanmar

LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/34Eba37

Olly is completing his Bachelor of Law (Honours) and Bachelor of Arts (International Relations) at Monash University. Olly has undertaken four overseas study programs and travelled extensively throughout Asia.

Olly first developed an interest in Asia after learning Mandarin in high school and spending six weeks studying in China in 2011. In 2018, he travelled to Myanmar and completed a short-term Monash study tour under the New Colombo Plan Mobility program, for which he achieved a class ranking of Dux.

His studies in Myanmar focused on crime and criminal justice in the country. This experience culminated in the publication of his article on Myanmar by Tea Circle, an academic forum hosted by the University of Oxford.

Olly is currently a paralegal and aspires to work as a lawyer in the Asia-Pacific.

Meg Hudson

University: Monash University

NCP host location: The Cook Islands

LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/2CpKOpC

Meg is completing her final year of a Bachelor of Education (Primary and Secondary) Degree at Monash University with disciplines in General Science and Legal Studies.

In 2018, Meg travelled to the Raratonga in the Cook Islands to complete a three-week secondary placement at Titikaveka College on a New Colombo Plan Mobility Grant.

Growing up Meg spent five years living in Jakarta, Indonesia, which has instilled a love for travel and embracing culture particularly in the Indo-Pacific region. Meg is also passionate about sustainability and the providing opportunity education and empowering students to become active global citizens and lifelong learners. Children are our future and Meg would like to see all children have the opportunity to excel.

Lachlan Colgrave

University: RMIT University

NCP host location: India

LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/36Gwc30

Lachlan is completing his Bachelor of International Studies at RMIT University alongside a Diploma of Languages in French and additional Indonesian studies.

In January 2019, Lachlan was a recipient of a New Colombo Plan Mobility Grant to participate in RMIT's study tour to Odisha, India. In partnership with Centurion University, the tour engaged with the local community in creating collective cultural resources and garnering an appreciation of not only tribal lifeworlds in Odisha, but of tribal and indigenous ways of life globally.

Lachlan spent his second semester through NCP abroad in Yogyakarta at Universitas Gadjah Mada, Indonesia. Completing ACICIS's Developmental Studies Immersion Program, Lachlan undertook language classes and a weekly development fieldwork subject before interning at Center for Digital Studies (CfDS) and Yayasan SATUNAMA in its mental health department.

Reem El-Naji

University: RMIT University

NCP host location: Vietnam

LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/2KfAepF

Reem is studying a Bachelor of Environmental Engineering, specialising in the Groundwater stream, at RMIT University. She is a highly motivated individual who is passionate about social justice and equity. Her moral compass has evolved through humanitarian experience, partaking in engineering projects in developing nations. Throughout her experience, she is focused on applying human-centred design principles to strengthen the skillset and capacity of disadvantaged individuals.

With the assistance of a New Colombo Plan long-term Mobility Grant, she has concluded a 12-week research project in Hue, Vietnam. In her role, Reem worked with a small NGO to evaluate the value chain of recyclable waste, and offered recommendations to improve the livelihood of vulnerable communities who operate in the informal waste management sector.

Reem is eager to engage with like-minded individuals to share new outlooks and innovative ideas to encourage other young individuals to partake in international mobility opportunities.

Jainam Sheth

University: Swinburne University of Technology

NCP host location: Hong Kong

LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/36T4BMe

Jainam is completing his double degree in Bachelor of Engineering (Civil) and Bachelor of Laws under the Vice Chancellor's Scholarship at Swinburne University of Technology.

As a New Colombo Plan Scholar, he studied at the Hong Kong Polytechnic University and Chuo University. While abroad, Jainam undertook full-time internships with leading global Civil Engineering firms and completed intensive language training in Chinese (Mandarin) and Japanese. His language skills were very useful while working with a multi-cultural team at university and during internships.

Jainam is passionate about working in the global engineering and legal industry. He looks forward to contributing in further development of Australia's relations with the Asia-Pacific region.

Lauren Haber

University: The University of Melbourne

NCP host location: China

LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/2PWYO21

Lauren is in her final year of a Bachelor of Arts (Psychology) and Diploma of Languages (Chinese Studies) at the University of Melbourne.

In the summer break of 2018, Lauren had the incredible opportunity of studying an intensive language course at Fudan University in Shanghai with the help of the New Colombo Plan Mobility Grant. This experience allowed Lauren to fully immerse in Chinese language and culture, while exploring one of her favourite cities in the world.

Lauren's experience in China has been the highlight of her university experience so far, and she hopes to continue using her Chinese language and intercultural communication skills developed on the trip to enhance her aspired career as a clinical psychologist.

Yasmin McGarva

University: The University of Melbourne

NCP host location: Japan

LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/2WTPBZE

Yasmin is in her final year of her Arts degree, majoring in Japanese and Media and Communications at The University of Melbourne. Through the New Colombo Plan Mobility Grant, Yasmin was able to travel to Japan in 2019. In Japan, Yasmin completed one semester at Hokkaido University studying Japanese language and culture.

During her time abroad, Yasmin actively participated in Hokkaido University's Ballroom Dancing Club and Nature Club. As a result, she was able to gain firsthand experience of life in Japan, make new friends and learn more about Japanese culture.

Yasmin has also enjoyed volunteering in Japan in 2017 as a group leader (helping Japanese students improve their English) for ISA Australia's Winter Empowerment program. She will be volunteering for ISA again in 2019. With a deep interest in cross-cultural communication and understanding, Yasmin aspires to work closely with the Indo-Pacific region in the future.

Michelle Smith

University: Torrens University

NCP host location: Taiwan

LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/2WZkaNJ

Michelle is in her third year at the Southern School of Natural Therapies, Torrens University completing a Bachelor of Health Science (Traditional Chinese Medicine). Upon graduation Michelle plans to practice as a doctor of Chinese medicine in Australia.

In 2019, Michelle interned at the Tzu Chi Buddhist Hospital in Taipei, Taiwan. During this time Michelle experienced firsthand the power of integrating Eastern and Western medicine in improving patient outcomes.

Michelle gained invaluable, hands on experience observing in the hospital that has expanded her understanding of how Chinese medicine may be applied in Australia to support serious medical issues, positioning it as an essential medicine rather than an 'alternative' therapy.

Michelle looks forward to integrating her learning's from Taiwan in a clinical setting in Australia to support people on their journey towards better health.

Alice Growden

University: Victoria University

NCP host location: Indonesia

LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/36IzG59

Alice is completing her third year in her double degree of Laws and Commerce (Applied Finance) at Victoria University.

Alice traveled to Indonesia in June 2019 on a New Colombo Plan Mobility Grant. During the program, Alice helped the local communities who were left in devastation from the recent traumatic earthquakes rebuild their businesses by developing marketing strategies along with financial advice to create an inflow of income to help re-build their lives. In recent legislation, Indonesia had banned all plastic bags to promote environmental well-being. Alice encouraged the local communities to be sustainable when running their businesses and created alternative options to substitute plastic.

Alice wishes to take her career overseas after her degree if the opportunity arises. Upon completion of her studies, Alice aspires to practice as a Solicitor in the areas of property law, wills & estates and litigation.

Aditi Chaturvedi

University: Curtin University

NCP host location: Indonesia

LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/2Nr5LXj

Aditi is in the penultimate year of her Law and Accounting double degree at Curtin University. In February 2018, Aditi travelled to Jakarta for six weeks, with the ACICIS Business Practicum program. This involved studying Bahasa Indonesia for two weeks, attending seminars, and doing an internship at a major company in Jakarta. Aditi worked at the Jakarta headquarters of ANZ bank in the trade and export department. This program helped her better her understanding of the Indonesia and Australia trade relationship, and how culture plays a big role in the way Indonesians do business.

After graduation, Aditi hopes to work in international tax and trade, and further expand her knowledge about Australia's trade relations with the Indo-Pacific region.

Sean Curran

University: Curtin University

NCP host location: Japan

LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/33CLtA9

Sean is currently in his final year at Curtin University, studying International Relations and Japanese.

He studied at Waseda University, Tokyo, and interned with the Australian Chamber of Commerce in Shanghai, China as part of his NCP Scholarship program. In addition to this, he volunteered at primary schools to share what life in Australia is like with young Japanese students.

He has been on multiple international delegations with organisations such as Global Voices, Australia China Youth Association, and the Hong Kong S.A.R Government. Sean is focused on using these opportunities to help establish links between Australia and Asia, particularly among young people.

Ryan Carter

University: Edith Cowan University

NCP host location: Thailand

LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/2Cpwai0

Ryan is in his third and final year of a Bachelor of Science, majoring in Conservation Biology and Marine and Freshwater Science at Edith Cowan University in Perth, Western Australia.

In 2017, Ryan travelled to Thailand under the New Colombo Plan Mobility Grant to visit Khon Kaen University, spend time at a boy's orphanage, and visit Khao Yai national park.

Upon graduating Ryan hopes to travel to various places around the world and make an important contribution to global conservation.

Preston Branton

University: Murdoch University

NCP host location: Indonesia

LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/2p30Qmk

Preston is in his final year of a Bachelor of Global Security, majoring in Terrorism and Counter Terrorism Studies at Murdoch University.

At the beginning of 2019, Preston travelled to Bandung, Indonesia to complete the International Relations Program through a New Colombo Plan Mobility Grant. While undertaking a semester of studies at Universitas Katolik Parahyangan, Preston also completed an internship at the Resilience Development Initiative, collaborating with two other Australian interns to incorporate a non-traditional security studies focus into the organisation's current streams of research. During his time in Bandung, Preston was also the Vice President (External) of the Australia Indonesia Youth Association (West Java Chapter).

Preston's experience through the NCP has given him a new outlook on the Indo-Pacific and has motivated him to remain engaged with the region. He hopes to build on this experience with a career in the public sector after completing his degree.

Alana Middleton

University: The University of Notre Dame

NCP host location: Cambodia

LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/2pHSyRe

Alana is studying a Bachelor of Science, Biomedical Science at the University of Notre Dame in Fremantle. Upon graduation in 2019, she hopes to begin an honours project with the university.

For her New Colombo Plan Mobility Grant, she was fortunate to go to Cambodia and stayed with university students at the St. Paul Institute. Here, she got to immerse herself in Khmer culture including language, food and dance. She also attended seminars which enabled discussion on social issues experienced in Australia and Cambodia.

She hopes to apply her experiences of these issues to improve health outcomes nationally and globally in research or medicine one day.

Cameron Hee

University: The University of Western Australia

NCP host location: Taiwan

LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/2CqHxXc

Cameron is a former New Colombo Plan scholar and completed internships in Singapore, Hong Kong, Taipei and Beijing. He is currently undertaking a Bachelor of Philosophy (Honours) at the University of Western Australia and has been recognised by the Australian Financial Review as one of Australia's Top 100 Future Leaders for his advocacy work in the Indo-Pacific.