Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate welcomed the 2024 Mayor’s Student Ambassadors in a Civic Ceremony at Gold Coast Council Chambers earlier today. This is in addition to the GC’s Career Festival, which was held on Thursday and Friday of last week.
In its eleventh year, the Mayor’s Student Ambassador Program offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to a select group of international and local students. The program includes VIP behind-the-scenes experiences, personal development, cultural experiences, professional networking events, and the opportunity to participate in city activities.
In launching the program, Mayor Tom Tate talked about the importance of building on our international relationships through the Ambassador Program, encouraging the students to make the most of their Ambassadorship.
“Education is such a strong part of the fabric of the Gold Coast and this program allows you to make the most of your experience here. There’s no better place to live and study than the Gold Coast, so share your experiences and when opportunity comes your way, make sure you grab it with both hands,” the Mayor said.
Jennine Tax, Experience Gold Coast Executive Director of Education, echoed the Mayor’s message by highlighting the incredible opportunities available through the program.
“This year our team have curated an exciting array of exclusive and meaningful experiences. As an Ambassador you’ll get the chance to understand what it takes to run the city; go behind the scenes at some of the premier arts and cultural festivals on the Gold Coast; enhance your understanding of indigenous culture with a unique First Nations Experience; connect with our native wildlife while understanding the important conservation work that’s being done; and cook for the disadvantaged in our city with OzHarvest,” Ms Tax enthused.
This year’s Civic Ceremony also included an address from 2020 Ambassador Rose Olesen of Denmark, now leading a successful marketing career on the Gold Coast. Rose advised the new intake of Ambassadors to take the initiative during the program.
“The Mayor’s Student Ambassador Program has given me endless opportunities and it continues to do so today. Through this program I met my best friend, whose wedding I attended in India last year, and through a networking experience offered in the program and by sharing my appointment on LinkedIn, I was offered my first job in Australia.”
“To all the new Ambassadors being appointed today, I cannot stress enough the importance of making an effort towards building genuine relationships. I owe gratitude to my mentors at Experience Gold Coast for their support in unlocking many of the career opportunities I have had in this beautiful city,” Rose said.
The Mayor’s Student Ambassador Program is open to Gold Coast secondary and tertiary students, both domestic and international. This year 22 students from different 13 nationalities are taking part in the program, representing 11 Gold Coast education and training providers.
The Koala congratulates the Gold Coast on yet another valuable program that supports international students and provides them with opportunities beyond the classroom.
