Run by the City of Sydney, the International Student Leadership and Ambassador program provides training, mentoring and work experience that helps international students make the most of their Sydney stay.
Lord Mayor Clover Moore said the ISLA program was an important investment for Sydney, which draws more international students than any other city in Australia.
“Programs like this help Sydney attract and nurture the best candidates from around the world, and who can promote Sydney internationally as a great place to study, live and work,” the Lord Mayor said.
“There are 40,000 international students living and studying in Sydney who play a crucial role in enhancing our global connections.
“Sydney was this year ranked the world’s most desirable city for studying, and the international student sector contributes over $1.6 billion to the economy, creating around 4,000 jobs locally.
“The City recognises the importance of supporting these students who are playing an important role in helping make our city a diverse and vibrant place for all.”
During their 18 month term as the City’s international student ambassadors, the students will run a range of events with the City for local and international students to promote social connection, health and wellbeing and volunteering in the community as well as a range of events and festivals.
The ambassadors attend workshops in a variety of activities, including leadership, cultural awareness, community engagement, professional writing and project management.
The program is valued by students as an opportunity to give back to the community, and the students will use their knowledge and experience to help the City and universities further enhance support for local and international students.
The 30 graduates from the class of 2015-16 contributed nearly 6,500 volunteer hours with charity and community organisations, delivered six projects attended by thousands of local and international students, and volunteered at 35 different events.
Sydney University - 30th August 2016. International Student Ambassador Tian Qin Source: Supplied by City of Sydney
International student ambassador Tian Qin, who is originally from Zhengzhou in northern China,has lived in Sydney for the past six years, recently completing a Master of Commerce degree at the University of Sydney.
She described the ambassador program as life-changing and is encouraging other international students to sign up.
“Being part of this program has opened up a whole new world for me. Before, I lived in my own comfort zone – I didn’t have many local friends and my life was lived on campus,” Ms Qin said.
“During this program I got to know so many people from all walks of life and from all over the world. It was really inspiring – I got to see how they lived, what their ambitions were and what things they appreciate and value in life.
“Now I feel like a local and Sydney feels like home. I feel like I’m part of the community and I’ve enjoyed giving back to the city.
“My experience with the student ambassador program, the stories I’ve heard and the people I’ve met, will stay with me for many years,” Ms Qin said.
“I would encourage other students to be part of the ambassador program - it will make a difference to your life. It offers amazing opportunities to meet people and learn so much. You will grow personally.”
Launched in 2013, the program has so far mentored 65 ambassadors. This year the City will select 40 new candidates from applicants attending educational institutions across the state.
Applications are now open for 2016-18 ISLA program. For program details and to apply, visitcityofsydney_ISLA ambassador program_applications
Applications close Monday 10 October at 5pm.
