CDU Student Council

Name: Shishtata Bhandari

Course: Bachelor of Information Technology

As a student deeply passionate about personal and professional growth, I firmly believe that when students are given the right opportunities, they become empowered and resilient. My vision for CDU is to create a space where students feel encouraged to voice their ideas, take risks, and learn through experiences, even mistakes. University is the ideal environment for personal development, with the support of a connected community that helps students grow.  As the Vice President of the CDU IoT Club, I’ve seen how eager students are to grow professionally but often struggle with limited support. I believe students need guidance from both faculty and peers who have recently faced similar challenges. This is why I advocate for establishing a student growth group where individuals can come together weekly—regardless of their goals, whether academic, physical, or mental health—and hold each other accountable. This initiative would foster a sense of belonging and support within our already close-knit community.  Additionally, I aim to collaborate with all student groups to organize programs that enhance professional portfolios while encouraging cross-group collaboration. With my leadership experience, I am committed to ensuring that every student’s voice is heard, and that programs are effective, time-efficient, and resource-friendly. My goal is to create a connected, empowered, and supportive student community at CDU.

Name: Gilbertofer Tanoto

Course: Bachelor of Information Technology

University life should be more than just classes—it should be about building connections, feeling supported, and having opportunities to grow. As the Vice President of the CDU Student Council, my goal is simple: to create better connectivity and inclusivity for all students and I’m here to advocate for student needs.

I’m passionate about music, photography, technology, student engagement, and advocacy. Whether I’m capturing moments through a camera, exploring new tech, or organizing initiatives that amplify student voices, I believe everyone deserves to feel like they belong at CDU. Beyond leadership, I also work as a tutor, primarily supporting First Nations students and helping them navigate their studies with confidence. I’ve also had the privilege of being an emcee, where I’ve learned how to engage and inspire audiences. I'm also a student support officer, helping new and current students with their university life.

As Vice President, I want to ensure that every student, no matter their background, feels included, connected, and empowered. Whether it’s through events, advocacy, or direct support, I’m committed to making CDU a place where students can thrive, have fun, and create lasting memories. Let’s build a stronger, more connected CDU together!

Name: Safal Sapkota

Course: Bachelor of Engineering Science

I was born in a beautiful and vibrant district known as Chitwan in a heavenly country like Nepal. I completed my schooling in Chitwan. During my school days, I was good at my studies. I always wanted to be the leader of a team, or a group of members but didn't get any opportunities during my school time. Now at university I have an opportunity to express my leadership so, I will like to use it at it's best. I have been through a lot of hurdles in my life. As a student, I have seen the tears of success and the broken heart of the failure. I think I would be one of the best way to raise the voice of the students; whose voice is never heard because of shyness of the student or failure of the concerned authority. If I get a chance, I will make an inclusive group of students and discuss with them about their experience as a student in CDU via real table talk or online seminars. I will make chunks of groups of students coming from different ethnicity, language and culture. It will help me to know specifically what problems are they facing on ground level and raise the voice as a whole. This will help the students of CDU to express their unheard voice and will be an opportunity to CDU to be its best. Thanking you and hoping for the best study experience in CDU. 

Name: Katherine Lockhart

Course: Bachelor of Business

Hello, I’m Katherine Lockhart and I am a first-year undergraduate student.  Since finishing high school I’ve worked retail, been a bus driver during a brief stint in Perth and currently work in aviation as a store person in the logistics department. In this role I handle highly sensitive aircraft parts, arrange dangerous goods to be shipped by air and road, and monitor stock levels to name a few.  I’m known as a go getter and problem solver, willing to go the extra mile to make sure that people have the resources and knowledge to perform their roles. Weather it’s training in applications, finding that obscure reference or having a chat with the managers to discuss sourcing a new tool.  I love making sure that people have a voice and are being heard, and I enjoy ensuring that everyone is being treated equally.  I wish to use my experiences to the benefit of students at CDU and continue to develop my leadership skills and to represent issues that matter to my fellow students. I want to be an advocate for CDU students during board and committee meeting, contribute to decisions that impact students and support community development within CDU and make it a safe and fulfilling community for students.

Name: Preeti

Course: Master of Electrical and Electronics Engineering

Hi everyone! I’m Preeti, and I’m honoured to serve as your Women’s Officer on the CDU Student Council. I’m passionate about personal and professional growth and believe that when students are given the right opportunities, they don’t just grow—they thrive. As a Student Ambassador for Engineers Australia and part of the CDU Engineering Student Society, I’ve reconnected with many students and seen their incredible potential. Often, they just need a platform to showcase their abilities, and when given the chance, they excel. This is especially true for women, who sometimes underestimate themselves. Through my journey, I’ve met so many inspiring women who have broken barriers and redefined success, and I want to ensure that every woman at CDU feels empowered to do the same. As a student council, we are committed to creating an inclusive space where everyone feels valued, supported, and inspired. University life should be more than just attending classes—it should be about building connections, feeling empowered, and knowing that you belong. No matter your background or experiences, you deserve to be heard and celebrated. Let’s work together to make CDU a place where everyone feels empowered to chase their dreams and inspire future generations. If you ever need support, have ideas, or just want to chat, I’m always here to listen. Let’s build a stronger, more connected CDU together! #TogetherWeMakeCDU

Name: Surendra Phuyal

Course: Bachelor of Information Technology

As an international student at CDU, I want to ensure that every undergraduate student's voice is heard in all matters. Having personally faced the challenges in Darwin, I understand that public transport and safety concerns, such as robbery, are critical issues that must be addressed to make our campus and community safer. Additionally, with stricter student visa regulations since 2023, the number of international students is declining, and many struggle to secure their first jobs, leading to mental fatigue and, in some cases, relocation to other states. The university can play a vital role in helping students find employment opportunities and easing their transition into the workplace

Name: Bipu Ojha

Course: Master in Information Technology (CyberSecurity) 

I, Bipu Ojha, am thrilled to nominate myself for the CDU Student Council. As a passionate Network and Cloud Engineer specializing in cybersecurity, and currently pursuing a Master's in IT (Cybersecurity) at CDU with the prestigious Vice Chancellor's Scholarship, I bring a blend of technical expertise, leadership, and a commitment to community service.  Throughout my career, I have demonstrated a strong dedication to giving back to the community. As a member of the Forbes Cybersecurity Awareness Club, I have led initiatives to educate government bodies, colleges, and offices on cybersecurity best practices. I believe in empowering others and making a lasting, positive impact.   If elected, I will work tirelessly to represent student interests, advocate for better support services, and foster a more inclusive and engaging campus environment. My goal is to enhance the student experience by promoting new opportunities, listening to diverse voices, and ensuring that all students feel heard, supported, and valued.  I am committed to using my skills and experience to serve the CDU community, and I am eager to contribute to the long-term growth and success of our university. Thank you for considering my nomination.

Name: Ayush Dutta

Course: Master of Data Science

I am Ayush Dutta, a Master of Data Science student at Charles Darwin University. I am driven by a deep interest in data-driven solutions, which has shaped my academic journey and professional aspirations. My passion for problem-solving, combined with a solid technical foundation in data science, allows me to approach challenges with creativity and precision.  What inspired me to apply for the CDU student council is my desire to contribute to the well-being of my fellow students by creating an inclusive, supportive environment. I believe in the power of collaboration and community, and I aim to bring fresh perspectives to the council that reflect the needs of both local and international students. I plan to advocate for initiatives that promote mental health, academic integrity, and technological advancements to enhance student life.  With experience in leadership through volunteering and team projects, I am confident that I can contribute meaningfully to the council's mission. My goal is to ensure that every student's voice is heard and that we work together to create a thriving campus culture.

Name: Danielle White

Course: Bachelor of Environmental Science 

As a third-year Bachelor of Environmental Science student, I am deeply passionate about sustainability and promoting environmentally responsible practices and this is why I am excited to take on the role of Sustainability Officer in the CDU Student Council 2025. I will advocate for sustainability, collaboration, and educational excellence so that students can engage in activities that support personal growth, community involvement, and environmental stewardship.

Following a transformative experience in India with CDU in 2023, supported by the Government’s New Colombo Plan, I am particularly focused on cultural diplomacy in science and prioritising First Nations perspectives so that CDU pursues a more inclusive and holistic approach to sustainability. I am eager to promote sustainability education, waste reduction, and renewable energy initiatives to empower the CDU community to adopt greener practices. I will also work to strengthen partnerships with both local and global organisations, advancing CDU’s leadership in sustainability research and community engagement.

Name: Cara Anna Barilla

Course: Bachelor of Education Primary

As a dedicated 38-year-old mother of two and a published Australian author, I feel i have the natural leadership and drive to submit my self-nomination for the CDU School Representative Council. Currently pursuing a Bachelor of Education at CDU, I am enthusiastically committed to advocating for the enrichment and inclusivity of our educational environment. My diverse experiences and background have equipped me with a unique perspective that I am eager to bring to the Council.   My journey has been shaped by a profound appreciation for cultural diversity and socioeconomic equity. As an author and Learning support officer for diverse learning and inclusivity, I have explored various narratives and perspectives, and this insight drives my passion for nurturing an inclusive setting where every student feels valued and supported through their pathway at CDU. My academic pursuit in education is heavily driven in passion which reinforces my dedication to these principles.   I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to CDU's ongoing efforts to create an innovative and progressive educational environment. By advocating for future movements and embracing all cultures and backgrounds, I aim to support our shared vision of a vibrant, inclusive community. 

Name: Deepisha Thakuri

Course: Bachelor of Information Technology

I am an international student studying Bachelor of Information Technology at CDU Casuarina Campus. Being a sports-spirited person, I love to be a part of a community where I can explore myself. I am a good learner and quickly adaptive to the environment. I believe that being a member of CDUSC will allow me to strengthen my skills and knowledge, where I can also contribute effortlessly. With a focus on continuous improvement and a passion, I am excited to take on new challenges and develop further both personally and professionally. 

Name: Subash Adhikari

Course: Master of Engineering 

I am excited to announce my nomination for the CDU Student Council. My inspiration to apply for this role stems from a deep desire to contribute to the enhancement of the student experience, especially for those like myself, whose courses are primarily based on external modes of study. While this limits my ability to be present on campus, it also provides me with a unique perspective on the challenges faced by remote learners.  My primary goal is to foster a more inclusive and supportive environment for both on-campus and external students. I plan to work on initiatives that promote mental health awareness, academic support, and stronger engagement for remote learners through improved online resources and virtual events. Additionally, I would advocate for better communication channels between external students and university administration, ensuring their concerns are heard and addressed.  Despite the physical distance, I am confident that my leadership skills and passion for community building will enable me to serve effectively. By joining the Student Council, I aim to bridge the gap between external and on-campus students, ensuring CDU remains a place where everyone feels connected and supported.  I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to positive change and make a difference for all CDU students.

Name: Manoj Thapa

Course: Master of Applied Spatial Science

Being a postgraduate student at Charles Darwin University, I am excited to represent my fellow graduate students and their needs and experiences. I have learned and gained valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities in my academic journey. My role will be focused on creating an inclusive environment that supports graduate students to thrive and achieve their goals even after university life. I believe in promoting research excellence, collaborating, and engaging with diverse communities, and increasing the presence of students at the international level. My motive is to raise the voice of students and support them by helping, encouraging, and celebrating their achievements.

Name: Mohammad Yasin Arafat

Course: Master by Research

Myself Mohammad Yasin Arafat, a Bangladeshi international student currently pursuing a Master's by Research in Smart Grid Data Management at the scenic and dynamic Charles Darwin University. I hold a Bachelor of Software Engineering from the University of Malaysia Sarawak, where I was honored with six Dean's List awards. During my time there, I was actively involved in student activities, organizing events, and engaging with the international community. Professionally, I have five years of experience as a Software Engineer, working as a Team Lead at a top multinational corporation (MNC). In this role, I collaborated closely with clients, global authorities, government bodies, and various stakeholders on high-impact projects. This experience has strengthened my leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills, which I am excited to bring to broader leadership roles.  I am deeply motivated by the opportunity to serve and uplift the student community, and I believe the CDU Student Council is the perfect platform for me to make a meaningful impact. I want to advocate for the needs of students while creating an inclusive and vibrant campus environment where everyone feels empowered to succeed. My particular focus is on developing initiatives that enhance student engagement, create professional development opportunities, and build a stronger sense of community among international students.  Looking to the future, I see my time on the Student Council as a way to further develop my leadership skills and continue contributing to the university community. My goal is to blend my technical expertise with my leadership experience to drive positive change in both my academic pursuits and future professional endeavors. By serving on the CDU Student Council, I hope to leave a lasting legacy of growth, collaboration, and progress that benefits all students.