CDU students awarded international scholarships for prestigious cultural exchange
Three Charles Darwin University (CDU) students have been awarded Australian Government New Colombo Plan Scholarships for 2024, with exciting plans to study at universities in the Indo-Pacific and gain a deeper insight into their chosen fields.
Isabella Burton, Liliana Leschi and Jayden Ilett were selected to participate in the prestigious initiative, provided by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade to cultivate a deeper understanding of the region among Australia's future leaders.
CDU Bachelor of Public Health student and First Nations woman Isabella Burton was named the 2024 New Colombo Plan Fellow for Indonesia, securing the highest ranking among the 11 scholars visiting the country.
“This is an incredible opportunity that will shape my academic and professional growth,” she said.
“At Udayana University in Bali, I’ll be studying public health with a focus on opportunities in neonatal and women’s maternal health, as well as craniofacial disabilities.
“I believe impactful change begins at the community level. Over 18 months, I hope to contribute to grassroots initiatives within local organisations that help create better health outcomes.
“I am excited to represent CDU but also advocate for increased First Nations participation within the competitive scholarship program.”
Among 150 recipients, they will engage in immersive experiences, fostering cultural intelligence, language proficiency, and meaningful connections.
Mr Ilett is studying a Bachelor of Education and will complete a semester of secondary education, majoring in history, at Tonga National University.
“I have Tongan heritage on my mum’s side and I’m excited to immerse myself in our culture and community, dive deep into the history of Tonga and attempt to become fluent in the language,” he said.
“Through this adventure, I hope to bring what I learn back to Australia and broaden the worldview and cultural capabilities of my future students.”
Ms Leschi is studying a Bachelor of Humanitarian Aid and Development and said she looks forward to exploring the environmental challenges faced by communities, particularly in climate change resilience initiatives, while at the University of the South Pacific in Fiji.
“I plan to actively engage with the local community, building connections and understanding the cultural dynamics that contribute to resilience and create lasting positive change,” she said.
“My ultimate career goal is to be based in the Asia-Pacific region and travel to nations affected by disasters, helping to leverage local knowledge and practices to provide informed support during critical times.”
The New Colombo Plan is open to eligible Australian undergraduate students, who can study at one of 40 host locations in the Indo-Pacific, from the Cook Islands to South Asia and Bangladesh.
Picture caption: L to R: CDU students Liliana Leschi and Isabella Burton are 2023 New Colombo Plan scholars.