Candidate statements: LTSA elections 2023
This page lists candidate statements and photos of candidates in the La Trobe Student Association (LTSA) elections 2023. The candidate statements are reproduced exactly as they were submitted to us, and we haven’t edited them for grammar, form or accuracy. Statements appear in ballot paper order, which was randomly drawn.
More information about the 2023 LTSA elections can be found on the main elections website.
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Note that the Mildura, Shepparton and Wodonga Student Councils were unopposed.
Bendigo Student Council
Kaileigh Serle
Hello! I am a dedicated Psychology student, who works in Mental Health and aspires to become a powerful voice for those who need support and guidance. My goal is to make a significant difference to the Mental Health field and additionally, be a leader for neurodivergent or disadvantaged students like myself. I aim to be a source of hope for those who need it and become a powerful voice for the future lived experience movement in any possible context. Whether this be within the context of further education, personally or professionally, I hope to be a powerful voice for advocacy and empowerment. I am an open minded, passionate individual who will always support and speak up for those who need it.
David Friswell
Hello, my name is Dave. I am a Molecular Biology major at the Bendigo campus. I am keen to represent students and advocate on their behalf to create the best possible environment for students to achieve their goals and enjoy their time at university. I have been a university student pre, during, and post pandemic. I have experienced the changes and difficulty firsthand. I have experienced every high and low of study, passing classes with an A, failing classes, taking leave of absence, and doing volunteer research projects. If elected, I will work to improve the experience of university for all students in every possible way I can. Thank you.
Nairobi Medina
Hi I am Nairobi Medina. I am a first year Bachelor of Civil Engineering student in La Trobe University Bendigo Campus. I am running for a position in the LTSA Bendigo Council as I know I have capable and suitable to represent and advocate the student body in the Bendigo Campus both Local and International Students. I have been serving the students of the university for more than a year now as I have started to volunteer in La Trobe Leaders Program during my first semester. Moreover, I continued to help and guide students as I become a part of the Student Ambassador during the start of this academic year. Currently, I am an active member of the LTSA Bendigo Council which enabled me to get to know a lot more students and know their needs and proactively advocate them in general. It would be an honor again to be part of the LTSA Committee for Academic Year 2024.
Wing WONG
I have gained valuable experiences in various leadership roles, ranging from being a chairperson, vice-chairperson, prefect to monitor. As a result, I am well-versed in organising events and consistently generating innovative ideas.
LTSA consistently hosts a plethora of fascinating events. While these events are undoubtedly captivating, I believe it is equally crucial to establish a closer connection with our students beyond social media promotion.
One way to enhance student involvement is by granting them more agency in decision-making processes. For instance, we can introduce a monthly notification via email to students, summarising activity proposals for the upcoming month. Students can vote for their preferred events or propose new activities they are passionate about, either online or in person. To encourage participation, we could offer incentives such as free drinks or food. Afterwards, a monthly newsletter can be sent out, detailing the voting outcomes and providing event calendars.
Moreover, to create an accepting environment and foster a closer relationship with students, we can send celebratory emails with brief introductions on both local and international holidays. This would demonstrate LTSA’s appreciation for every student and respect for their culture.
Together, we can create a welcoming and harmonious student community at Bendigo.
Pooja
Hi Team,
I am applying for Bendigo Student Council with a motto of helping international students who need help with multiple tasks and counselling. I love to volunteer for any task which may come ahead in terms of serving the community and making their La Trobe Experience the best. Kindly accept my application for this position and I assure you guys that I will give my best.
Thank you,
Pooja
Global MBA Student
Jagdeep Nashier
Teamworker
City Student Council
Karthik Reddy Nandyala
“I am fully dedicated, to nurturing an lively student community at La Trobe City Campus. My main objective is to ensure that each and every student feels valued and represented. I will actively support the expansion of access to resources, mental health assistance and extracurricular activities specifically designed for City Campus students. Moreover I strive to improve the lines of communication between students and faculty emphasizing transparency and accountability. By working we can organize engaging events and workshops that cater to the needs of City Campus students thereby enhancing their academic journey. Lets unite and create a sense of connection, within the La Trobe City community.”
Joshua Lamb
No statement submitted
Pallavi Bhattarai
As an International student myself, my journey till now has given me immense opportunity to various aspects, from academic challenges to cultural adjustments, and I believe I can play a crucial role in assisting fellow international students through my invaluable experiences. I am also currently a Latrobe Leader which helped me develop my leadership abilities and understanding of the needs and concerns of international students.
Further, I have witnessed the positive outcome of LTSA on student life through its numerous contribution to the student life. So, I am eager to be a part of the council to enhance the positive impact on student experience. As a council member, I am committed to using my knowledge and skills to support the council activities.
Sanjana Kommasani
I’m interested for the position in LTSA Council. I’ve been volunteering with LTSA City Campus since the very 1st day at university and it gave me nothing but joy to do so. My experience with the council as a volunteer has been crucial to my development as a leader professionally as well as deepening my awareness of the inner workings of the organisation. I’m also a part of La Trobe Leaders program (Bundoora & City Campus).
During my time as a volunteer, I have witnessed the positive impact LTSA can have on the student body and the international students community. This experience has raised my desire to play a more active role in advocating for the interests and concerns of students.
I think my commitment and capacity for productive collaboration with a range of stakeholders, puts me in a good position to effectively represent the LTSA Council. If elected, I am committed to being a voice for international students, working to address their needs and concerns.
I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to the university’s growth and development, and I look forward be elected for the LTSA Council.
Thank you
Yasmin Begum
I want be a voice, voice of the students and represent the students at La Trobe University. With the deep sense of responsibility and desire to serve the students of La Trobe University, I want to use effective communication and and coordination skills for a thriving academic commnity. If elected i promise to be your voice and work tireless towards the concerns of students and amplify your voice. I believe in being inclusive and being supportive seeking everyones input and shape a future at the University that reflects our shared aspirations as we contiue our journey together towards a better acaedemic and extra curricular achievements. I thank you for considering me for the role, and I look forward for an opportunity to serve everyone.
Sparshita Dutta
I wanted to elect myself since I’ve been part of the LTSA as a member and now I would want to be a part of the management team as I believe I can bring lot of valuables on the table and wish to work towards making every students journey a memorable one at La Trobe.
Thank you
International Student Council
Senith Waduge
I’ll make sure to build friendly environment to all international students and speak for their rights.
Yasmin Begum
I want be a voice, voice of the students and represent the students at La Trobe University. With the deep sense of responsibility and desire to serve the students of La Trobe University, I want to use effective communication and and coordination skills for a thriving academic commnity. If elected i promise to be your voice and work tireless towards the concerns of students and amplify your voice. I believe in being inclusive and being supportive seeking everyones input and shape a future at the University that reflects our shared aspirations as we contiue our journey together towards a better acaedemic and extra curricular achievements. I thank you for considering me for the role, and I look forward for an opportunity to serve everyone.
Balaji Nageswara Rao Kancharla
Been as a master of Cybersecurity student representative want to help the international students from various countries and help them succeed in their career
Bigyan Karki
I am an International student studying Master of Data Science at La Trobe University. I have been also working as a student ambassador and currently as a senior officer at ASK La Trobe.
Over the past year, La Trobe University has become my home, and I have actively engaged with numerous students, fostering social connections and gaining valuable insights into diverse perspectives. La Trobe Bundoora Campus offers a multicultural environment, welcoming students from various nationalities.
My work at ASK La Trobe has provided me with valuable insights into addressing student’s needs and concerns effectively. I will leverage this experience to ensure that LTSA remains a responsive and accountable student body for students at La Trobe.
I am greatly interested in serving as an LTSA member to make those effective changes and serving more students to make La Trobe a home for many more students.
Arpanpreet
The goal of Student Council is to promote a sense of community within the school, act as a voice for students with the administration, provide community service, and raise funds for charitable causes and school improvements. To initiate, implement, and complete projects and activities which will be of help to the school, the students, the faculty, the administration, the Board of Trustees and the community. To develop and provide opportunities for leadership and service in the local school and in the community.
Quang Hung Nguyen
Dear my fellows at La Trobe University,
As an international student, I understand the challenges and opportunities we encounter while pursuing our education here. My goal as a candidate for the International Student Council is to enhance the overall experience of international students at La Trobe University.
If elected, I am committed to:
Advocacy: I will actively represent the interests and concerns of international students, ensuring that our voices are heard and our needs addressed.
Support: I will work to improve the support systems, including academic assistance, mental health resources, and cultural integration programs.
Diversity and Inclusion: I will promote diversity on campus, fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment where students from all backgrounds can thrive.
Communication: I will establish open and transparent communication channels between international students and university administration.
Collaboration: I will collaborate with other student councils to create a unified student body that can drive positive change across the university.
I am dedicated to making La Trobe University a better place for international students, and I humbly request your support in this endeavor. Together, we can create an excellent educational experience for all international students at La Trobe University.
I appreciate your consideration.
Sincerely,
Quang Hung Nguyen
Jiahao Li
Hello fellow La Trobe students,
I’m Leo, presently serving as a representative on the La Trobe University Academic Board and the Council of International Students Australia as a Postgraduate Officer. Today, I’m thrilled to declare my candidacy for the LTSA International Officer position, eager to foster a more inclusive, communicative, and contributive environment for every student through innovative platforms like my Campsite bio page.
As your International Officer, my focus will be on refining academic appeal procedures, fortifying communication pathways for authentic student feedback, and bolstering support for smooth academic-to-graduate transitions. Drawing from my international student background and personal experience with ADHD, I’m passionate about addressing the distinct challenges our diverse student body encounters, aiming to make our campus life richer and more enjoyable.
Serving on the Academic Board has granted me a deep understanding of the university’s frameworks and student support systems. I’ve identified areas for enhancing academic services that I’m eager to address within the LTSA, aiming for an enriched La Trobe experience for everyone.
Here is my LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leojiahaoli/.
Sai Kiran Challa
I am excited to announce my candidacy for a position at international Student Council. I firmly believe that a strong and united student body is essential for creating a vibrant and inclusive environment for International students, where everyone’s voice is heard and valued. I have gone through a tough phase as an International student, I know its hard if no one is on our side. So, I will be there to speak on behalf of international students if they face any issues.Through my dedication and passion for the betterment of our international students community, I pledge to work for the betterment of international students life at Latrobe.
Imbisat Khan
Hey there!
I’m beyond excited about the chance to be a voice for international students on the LTSA International Student Council. As an international student myself, I understand the unique challenges we face and the important perspectives we bring to the table. I’m dedicated to fostering a strong community and ensuring that we get the support we need during our time at uni.
I’ve taken part in various clubs and events, which have helped me collaborate and connect with people from a diverse range of backgrounds. Also, being in my second year, I’ve already experienced the intense culture of moving continents and can help international students navigate the academic and cultural scene in a new country.
Additionally, I’ve had my fair share of being involved with volunteering gigs and student leadership. It’s really helped me figure out how to work with others, fight for what matters, and make positive changes in our student community. I’m ready to use my skills to make the uni experience better and more inclusive for international students – let’s do this! ??
Sanjana Kommasani
I’m interested for the position in LTSA Council. I’ve been volunteering with LTSA City Campus since the very 1st day at university and it gave me nothing but joy to do so. My experience with the council as a volunteer has been crucial to my development as a leader professionally as well as deepening my awareness of the inner workings of the organisation. I’m also a part of La Trobe Leaders program (Bundoora & City Campus).
During my time as a volunteer, I have witnessed the positive impact LTSA can have on the student body and the international students community. This experience has raised my desire to play a more active role in advocating for the interests and concerns of students.
I think my commitment and capacity for productive collaboration with a range of stakeholders, puts me in a good position to effectively represent the LTSA Council. If elected, I am committed to being a voice for international students, working to address their needs and concerns.
I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to the university’s growth and development, and I look forward be elected for the LTSA Council.
Karanbir Singh
As candidates for the International Student Council, we are committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for all international students. Our primary goals include:
Advocacy and Representation: We pledge to amplify the voices of international students, ensuring their concerns are heard and addressed by the relevant authorities.
Cultural Exchange and Integration: We aim to promote cultural understanding and facilitate interactions between students from diverse backgrounds, fostering a sense of belonging.
Academic Support: We will work towards implementing resources and programs to assist international students in navigating academic challenges and achieving their educational goals.
Wellness and Mental Health: We are dedicated to providing accessible mental health resources and support systems tailored to the unique needs of international students.
Community Outreach: We will actively engage with the broader community to create opportunities for international students to contribute positively to their host country.
With your support, we aspire to create an enriching experience for all international students, fostering a global community that thrives academically, culturally, and personally. Together, we can make a lasting impact.
Navleen Kaur
I would love to join LTSA and follow all the rules and complete the requirements provided by it.
I want to join this because I feel it will make me more confident and help in changing my lifestyle .Furthermore I am always interested to make international students feel Latrobe as their home to make them feel more comfortable. I was even participating in Bollywood society Ltu even as an active member in dance. This would love to join LTSA and make all the students attracted to LTSA and help university to grow more .Hope you consider.
Kartik Gahlot
It’s with great pleasure that I write to you today to nominate me for the LTSA. I strongly believe I’m a prime candidate for LTSA because of my smart and hardworking attitude.
Karthik Reddy Nandyala
I want to represent the interests of La Trobe’s international students on the Student Association. My main goals are to help people from different cultures understand each other better, make it easier for international students to succeed academically and socially, and fight for policies that are fair to everyone. I want to organize events that celebrate our different cultures and address the challenges that international students face. I will also work with other people to make sure that everyone’s voices are heard, and problems are solved. I am committed to being open, fair, and easy to approach. I want to create an environment where all international students feel welcome, supported, and able to make a difference. Together, we can make La Trobe a better place for everyone.
Noman Akram Ansari
I am delighted to announce my candidacy for the International Student Council (ISC) and share my vision for a stronger, more inclusive international student community.
Support Services: My top priority is improving support services for international students, ensuring easier access to academic resources, expanded mental health support, and comprehensive guidance on immigration and visas.
Cultural Exchange: I aim to foster a more interconnected campus by organizing cultural exchange programs and events, promoting understanding, and celebrating our diverse backgrounds.
Advocacy: I’m dedicated to representing your interests, advocating for fair tuition, equitable housing, and improved campus facilities to meet the unique needs of international students.
Professional Development: I will work to provide increased internship opportunities and career support tailored to international students, ensuring your academic and professional success.
Community Engagement: Building a cohesive ISC community, I will encourage involvement, establish open feedback channels, and create mentorship programs for newcomers.
Sustainability: I will champion sustainability initiatives to reduce our carbon footprint and promote eco-friendly practices on campus.
Your vote for me is a vote for positive change. Let’s collaborate to make the ISC the vibrant center of our global academic journey. Thank you for your trust; together, we’ll build a brighter future.
Thomas Cobbinah
My personal mission as an international student is to inspire and support my fellow students to have a better stay throughout their studies. I will commit my time to attending all LTSA meetings and help to raise the bar of La Trobe University’s international reputation.
Hua Bai
If elected I would make it my goal to make international students feel more welcomed during their stay in Australia, as well as to get more student to be involved in what goes on at our university.
Xuan Li
As an international student, I understand the challenges and opportunities of studying in a foreign country. If elected, I will work tirelessly to address these issues and create a supportive environment for all international students.
My key priorities include:
1. Cultural Exchange: Promoting cultural exchange programs to foster understanding and appreciation of different cultures within our campus community. 2. Academic Support: Advocating for improved academic support services tailored to the unique needs of international students, including language assistance and academic advising. 3. Student Welfare: Ensuring international students access comprehensive health and wellness resources, including mental health support. 4. Visa and Immigration Guidance: Providing resources and guidance on visa regulations, work permits, and immigration matters to ease the transition and stay of international students. 5. Inclusivity: Promoting inclusivity and diversity on campus through events, workshops, and awareness campaigns. 6. Affordability: Advocating for fair tuition and fee structures and exploring opportunities for scholarships and financial assistance for international students. 7. Safety: Working to enhance campus safety and address any concerns related to international student safety.
I am committed to being a vocal advocate for your needs. I will actively engage with the student body to ensure your voices are heard. Together, we
Alice Nguyen
As an international student with a strong passion for promoting inclusivity, diversity, and student welfare, I believe I can make a valuable contribution to the council’s mission for all international students on campus. The core value that drives my self-nomination is a commitment to represent the international student community effectively. Throughout my academic journey, I have engaged with fellow international students, advocating for their rights and addressing their concerns. I understand the unique challenges faced by international students, such as cultural adjustment, language barriers, and homesickness. These experiences have provided me with valuable insights. In addition, I possess essential qualities that would enable me to fulfill the responsibilities of an ISC member. I have demonstrated strong leadership skills through my involvement in various student organizations and volunteer initiatives. These experiences have developed my ability to effectively communicate, collaborate, and take initiative in addressing issues affecting our international student community. Moreover, my academic achievements and active participation in campus life have provided me with a well-rounded perspective on the needs and aspirations of international students. This diverse background allows me to approach challenges with an open mind, promoting the value of multiculturalism and fostering an inclusive environment for all.
MAHAPRETTYSARAH NATANIA M MANIMARAN
As an International student coming to Australia alone and adapting here, I can help other international students to feel home and make them be part of the University through the International student council. I want to make other students feel inclusive to the community. Being part of the International Student council will be a great opportunity for me to practise leadership and help people who finds it hard to integrate into the University. I will give ideas to the club to organise events and activities to provide a better University life for the students. And most important of all, I will be there of help anytime. Thank you.