International education celebrated at state’s top awards

NSW’s top international students, education providers, businesses and community groups have been named and celebrated at the state’s most prestigious international education awards - The 2024 NSW International Education Awards. 

The awards, now in their 11th year, recognise the success and contributions of international students across NSW and celebrate organisations for their outstanding support for international education.  

The winners were announced across the five categories:  

The NSW International Student of the Year Awards recognise the contributions made by individual students to their education and broader community. The winners across three categories were: 

  • Schools - Minh Thiem (Evelyn) Lieu from Vietnam studying at Canley Vale High School 
  • Vocational Education and Training (VET) and English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students (ELICOS) - Cristina Gabriela Tacuri Garcia from Ecuador studying at Greenwich College 
  • Higher Education - Aradhana Grover from India studying at The University of Newcastle 

The NSW International Education Industry Awards recognise the contributions of education providers and organisations that support international students through programs and initiatives. The winners across two categories were: 

  • Education Provider – UNSW Sydney Water Safety Program  
  • Partnership Excellence - Redfern Legal Centre International Student Legal Service NSW 

 Winners were announced on Wednesday night at an awards ceremony held at the Museum of Contemporary Art, Sydney. 

For more information about the 2024 NSW International Education Awards, including a full list of the finalists and winners, visit Study NSW 

Minister for Industry and Trade Anoulack Chanthivong said:  

“I congratulate all of this year’s winners and finalists who are helping to make NSW an even better place for international students to further their education.

“International education showcases Australia as an attractive destination, and NSW is the nation’s leading exporter of education services.”

NSW International Student of the Year, Higher Education Winner, Aradhana Grover said: 

 “Being recognised for this award fills me with immense joy and gratitude.

“Winning this award is a personal honour but also a reflection of the meaningful connections we can foster.

“It’s a reminder of the importance of our collective efforts to uplift each other and drive positive change, reinforcing the belief that every act of kindness makes a difference.

“This award also recognises the dedication and passion that international students contribute to communities.

“Awards like this are important because they celebrate the diverse contributions of international students, highlighting their unique perspectives and experiences.

“These awards create a platform for sharing the stories and accomplishments of international students, fostering a sense of community and belonging.”

NSW International Education Industry Awards, Partnership Excellence Winner - Sean Stimson, Redfern Legal Centre said: 

“We are deeply grateful and humbled to win this award.

“Winning is a wonderful recognition of our team for their collective efforts to improve the educational experiences and legal protections of international students in NSW.

“This award will no doubt strengthen our ability to continue advocating, to ensure the safety and well-being of all international students.

“Awards like this shine a spotlight on the critical issues facing international students, who contribute so much to the cultural and economic fabric of NSW.

“It also encourages greater collaboration between education providers, government, and legal services to continue innovating and improving the support offered to international students.

“These awards celebrate not just individual achievements, but the collective effort to create a safer and more inclusive environment for students, which in turn strengthens NSW’s position as a global leader in international education.”