The 2024 Study NT International Student Awards brought an air of celebration to Parliament House on 14 November, as outstanding international students, alumni, and local employers were honoured for their contributions to the Northern Territory’s community and economy.
Minister for International Education, Migration and Population, Robyn Cahill OAM, extended her congratulations to all nominees, finalists, and winners. “The awards are a fantastic opportunity to celebrate and recognise our international students’ and alumni’s impressive accomplishments and contributions to the Territory, as well as the local businesses that employ and mentor them,” she said.
Among the night’s winners was Hari Sharma, named Study NT International Student Alumni of the Year. Reflecting on his journey since arriving in Darwin from Melbourne in 2019, he called the move one of the best decisions he ever made. “A big thank you to StudyNT for this recognition, and for highlighting the work I’ve done in supporting students, graduates, and community members,” he said. Sharma also shared his commitment to continuing his work with students, graduates, and entrepreneurs.
The event spotlighted individuals like Cong Do Le, from Vietnam, who was awarded Study NT International Student of the Year. Cong, a Master of Data Science student at Charles Darwin University, serves as a senior mentor for the CDU Student Buddy program. His role extends beyond academics, as he advises international students on scholarships, living expenses, and other critical matters.
The awards also recognised Billy Nafoyo Chepkemoi as International Student Volunteer of the Year and local business NTEX as International Student Employer of the Year. Ms Cahill praised their efforts, noting the essential role international students play in enriching the Territory. “Cong, Billy and Hari have each made outstanding contributions to the Territory’s workforce and economy as well as our community,” she said, highlighting their volunteering efforts with organisations such as Lions International Club and Kindness Shake. She also commended NTEX for fostering a welcoming environment for international students and showcasing their value in the workforce.
Award recipients received well-deserved cash prizes, with the International Student of the Year taking home $2,000, while Alumni and Volunteer of the Year winners received $1,000 each.
Sharma, in his acceptance speech, celebrated the incredible value international students bring to the Northern Territory and shared actionable steps to boost employability and career success for this community. “Let’s continue to celebrate and empower the international student community,” he said, leaving attendees inspired and hopeful.
As the lights dimmed on the evening, the message was clear: the Northern Territory continues to benefit from the contributions of its international students, alumni, and supportive local businesses, creating a vibrant, thriving community for all.
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