2024 Award Winners

Gazi Eusha

Student of the Year - University

Eusha is commended for his achievements in academics, leadership, and community service. He has a strong commitment to personal growth and helping those around him.His contributions have included assisting at the Tasmanian University Student Association’s Food Hub, engaging young minds at STEM events, serving as General Secretary of the ICT Club, and in his position as an International Student Ambassador.

Negar Nazmdeh

Student of the Year - School

As an international student at Elizabeth College, Negar actively engages in community initiatives, fostering cultural exchange and understanding. Her volunteer work with the Migrant Resource Centre, her participation in Harmony Week activities and her efforts in welcoming international students to Tasmania and helping them connect with Tasmanian community are some examples of Negar’s commitment to community service. Negar has also been recognised for academic and sporting excellence through many school awards.

Dilip Shrestha

Student of the Year - Vocational

Dilip has been described as someone who is an active and passionate contributor to the Tasmanian community. As a disability support worker and current nursing student at TasTAFE, Dilip is committed to supporting the health and wellbeing of the community. He is also an active blood and platelet donor with Red Cross. Dilip established the Launceston Nepalese Soccer Club to increase community participation and foster cultural understanding through sport.

Ratchata ‘Zac’ Panyadong

Alumni of the Year

Zac, a former student of the University of Tasmania, has been described as someone who actively gives back to the Tasmanian community. While studying in Launceston, Zac co-founded the Business and Economics Student Society of Tasmania (BESST) to connect students with local professionals.Currently working with BDO Hobart, Zac continues to volunteer for the St Vincent de Paul Society and as a parish visitor at the Emergency Department at RHH and St John's Calvary Hospital.

Erika Thomson and Eve Rodahl

Student support award - Joint winners

Erika, a homestay host, has been described as someone who embodies the spirit of generosity and kindness, consistently going above and beyond to support international students in her care.

Erika enriches the international student experience in Tasmania by creating a welcoming and nurturing environment, where students feel valued and supported, allowing them to thrive both academically and personally.

Eve, as the Student Support and Welfare Team Leader with Global Education and Training International, Department for Education, Children and Young People, leads a dedicated team that is focused on creating a stronger and more inclusive community for international students in Tasmania.

Eve has been described as someone who has been instrumental in building bridges between international students and local families, ensuring each student feels welcomed, secure and valued.

Hydro Tasmania

Student Employer of the year

Hydro Tasmania was nominated for its dedication to supporting international students through its Graduate Program. Hydro’s strong support network, led by dedicated mentors and a Graduate Program Coordinator, ensures all graduates, receive equal opportunities for growth and success. The nominator notes that as an international student graduate at Hydro Tasmania, she has always felt valued, supported, and free from discrimination.