The NSW Government has honoured the state’s most exceptional international students, education providers, and sector innovators at the 2025 NSW International Education Awards, marking twelve years of celebrating global talent and the organisations that support them.
Held in Sydney last night, the awards recognised the vital contribution international students make to NSW’s economy, research output, and entrepreneurial landscape. International students now make up 42 per cent of postgraduate research enrolments and fund over a quarter of Australia’s university research. Their impact can also be seen in the startup ecosystem, with nearly one in seven Australian startups employing a current or former international student.
Two award categories were presented: the NSW International Student of the Year Awards and the NSW International Education Industry Awards.
Outstanding Students Recognised Across Three Categories
• Schools – Araf Iaj Khan (Bangladesh)
A Senior Prefect at Homebush Boys High School, Araf was honoured for his extensive community leadership, tallying more than 160 hours of volunteer work and championing inclusion, cultural diversity, and student mentoring.
• VET & ELICOS – Diego Luna Alamilla (Mexico)
A Diploma of Counselling graduate from the Australian Learning Group, Diego was recognised for his strong advocacy for youth inclusion and his leadership in supporting the wellbeing of international students.
• Higher Education – Jiaqi (Ellen) Jiang (China)
A medicine student at UNSW, Ellen has contributed to more than 200 public health and student wellbeing initiatives, demonstrating extraordinary commitment to creating a safer, more supportive environment for international students across NSW.
Reflecting on her win, Ellen said the award highlights the power of student leadership: “Each person’s story is a testament to courage, resilience, and personal growth… Awards like this bring together passionate leaders united by the same goal: improving the international student experience.”
Innovation and Industry Excellence Honoured
• Innovation in Education – MortarCAPS Higher Learning Data Standard
Adopted by over 70 institutions, the MCDS was recognised for transforming how student data is securely shared across borders, helping learners transition between countries and institutions with greater ease.
CEO Charlsey Pearce said the award celebrates collective innovation:
“We’re committed to empowering students to own their learning data and have their achievements recognised globally.”
• Industry Excellence – City of Sydney, 2025 Lord Mayor’s Welcome for International Students
This flagship event supports newly arrived students by connecting them with services, cultural networks, and Sydney’s vibrant multicultural community.
Minister for Industry and Trade Anoulack Chanthivong said the awards highlight the critical role international education plays in NSW’s growth: “These awards strengthen NSW’s position as Australia’s innovation powerhouse. I commend all students, educators, and organisations who are shaping our state’s future.”
The Koala congratulates all the winners!
For more details on the 2025 NSW International Education Awards, visit Study NSW.
