First published 28 August 2024 by Australia Awards
The importance of community is so central to the Australia Awards journey. University life gives you bonus siblings you never asked for, and you have no choice but to adopt them because when you realise at 2am that you don’t have sugar for tea, or coins for laundry, they are there to save the day!
The University of Queensland Society of Australia Awards Scholars (UQSAAS) is now part of the UQ Union Clubs and Societies. Four committee members were elected at the inaugural General Meeting, with Koisau Sade from Solomon Islands appointed as the first President.
Sade’s welcome message
“At UQ, we currently have an intake of 196 Australia Awards Scholarship awardees. These Scholars come from 27 countries across the African, Asian, and Pacific regions. The diversity of cultures, professional experiences and study disciplines of choice are extraordinary.
"The society was established to ensure Australia Awards Scholars at UQ have a platform to share and learn our diverse cultures including that of Australia, both socially and professionally. At the society, you will create life-long friendships through the fun social events and build your professional career including joining networks. Whether you have come straight out of high school, or have a wealth of experience in your field, we welcome you to be part of this dynamic society.”
Society of Australia Awards Scholars (SAAS) members
President: Koisau Sade, Solomon Islands (Bachelor of Arts and Social Science)
Role back home: Public Servant, Policy Coordinator for Ministry of Women, Youth, Children and Family Affairs
Vice President: Taslima Shirin, Bangladesh (Master of Governance and Public Policy)
Senior Assistant Secretary and Executive Magistrate, Ministry of Public Administration
Secretary: Iraine Galuvao, Samoa (Master of Environmental Management)
Principal Officer, Ministry of Works, Transport and Infrastructure
Treasurer: Morxay Vongnakhone, Laos (Master of Entrepreneurship and Innovation)
Managing Director, Saving and Credit Union Champa Phatthana
