Students celebrated at gala event for leadership and excellence

Published: 22 November 2024

The inspiring efforts of 海角视频 students in driving positive impact were recognised at the Student Excellence Awards on November 21.

From community volunteering to mental health advocacy and student-led initiatives, outstanding students were commended for their achievements in leadership, community and university engagement and sporting spirit.

Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Tyrone Carlin, congratulated the students on their achievements.

“It is inspiring to see these outstanding students create impact and change within and beyond our university. These students embody a culture at 海角视频 that we are very proud of; one where we strive for excellence, care for our communities and build trust through action,” Professor Carlin said.

“I congratulate our award winners on their success and wish them the best in their studies.”

Student in blue polo with stethoscope around neck and sim doll in background

Outstanding Leadership

Miso Ju, Bachelor of Nursing

As President of the Coffs Harbour Nursing Society, Miso has demonstrated outstanding leadership, with the society growing to become the University’s largest active group. Miso is the first international student ambassador at the Coffs Harbour campus and a Research Futures Scholar with the National Centre for Naturopathic Medicine. Outside of her studies, Miso works as an Assistant in Nursing and volunteers with St John Ambulance and local soup kitchens.

Runner-up: Brigid Richardson

Community Engagement Excellence

Meiyi Li, Master of Social Work (Professional Qualifying)

Meiyi has contributed significantly to the University and broader Gold Coast community. As Secretary for student association Coastrs in 2023, youth mental health organisation Batyr x SCU Executive Team member, and as an international student representative, Meiyi fosters inclusivity, mental health awareness and cultural engagement. Through these roles, Meiyi has organised orientation events, mentored new students and contributed to inclusion activities. As a Mayor’s Student Ambassador, Meiyi advocated for international student perspectives.

Runner-up: Nicholas Newling

SCU Engagement Excellence

Natasha Parkinson, Bachelor of Occupational Therapy

As Co-President of the Occupational Therapy Student Alliance (OTSA) at the Gold Coast campus, Natasha oversees club activities, manages social media, designs merchandise and ensures compliance with university guidelines. She created OTSA jumpers, launched the inaugural ‘Meet the Therapists’ nights and facilitated orientation activities that connected students with industry professionals. She has contributed to positive study experiences for OT students.

Runner-up: Benjamin Crowley-Clough

Outstanding Sporting Spirit

Alanah Osborne, Bachelor of Clinical Exercise Physiology

Alanah has demonstrated commendable sporting leadership through her roles as a UniSport MySay Sports Ambassador, UniSport Nationals Women’s Touch Team Manager and University Team Captain for Mixed Touch. Alanah has led initiatives to break down barriers to participation in sports, founded the SCU Run Club and participated in the Gold Coast Marathon and Samson Fitness Challenge. Alanah also works as a Gym Attendant at SCU Fitness Centre & Pool.

Runner-up: Amy Tobin

Student standing with trees in background

Indigenous Excellence

Keyarrah Sweetwater-Delauney, Bachelor of Indigenous Knowledge

Keyarrah provides support to Indigenous students through her roles as a Wayfinder for Gnibi College and Indigenous Australian Student Services (IASS) and as an Access and Inclusion Support Officer and Tutor. Keyarrah is also a vocal advocate for the LGBTQIA+ community and participant in local Indigenous events. In addition to her studies, Keyarrah also works full-time as a Student Experience Officer in the Faculty of Education.

Runner-up: Courtney Smith