President at the Australian National University

Hey, I'm Kira.

I'm a student of International Studies at the Australian National University and a member of the editorial staff at the East Asia Forum. I have studied at the University of Tokyo and Hitotsubashi University as a New Colombo Plan Scholar for Japan. I have also interned at Mitsubishi Corporation, Investment NSW's Tokyo office, and the Australian and New Zealand Chamber of Commerce in Japan.

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President at the University of Melbourne

Hey, I'm Carmen.

I am studying a Bachelor of Arts and Diploma in Chinese at the University of Melbourne, majoring in Politics and Asian Studies. In 2024, I was a Westpac Asian Exchange Scholar studying at the University of Hong Kong. I have also completed study abroad at Korea University and Fudan University. 

I have experience interning at Asialink Business and advocating better Australia-Asia relations amongst young people. I am passionate about engaging in Asia-Australia relations and promoting the Asian studies discipline. 

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President at the University of Sydney

Hey, I'm Sitong.

I'm studying a Bachelor of Commerce and Laws at the University of Sydney, majoring in Finance, with extensive experience in leadership roles. In 2024, I studied at Tsinghua University in China as a New Colombo Plan Scholar, deepening my understanding of and interest in cross-cultural engagement.

My leadership journey and work experience have equipped me to communicate with global clients, especially in the APAC region. I am eager to lead the USYD chapter of AAYA to foster a dynamic community of future leaders dedicated to strengthening connections across the Asia-Pacific region.

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President at the University of New South Wales

Hey, I'm Anna.

I'm studying a Bachelor of Laws and Psychological Science at the University of New South Wales (UNSW), with an extensive background in student volunteering and leadership. In 2024, I completed a semester exchange at Tsinghua University in China, where I developed a keen interest in international relations and professional growth. 

I'm passionate about building connections, cross-cultural appreciation, and creating a positive impact wherever possible. I look forward to fostering AAYA UNSW to be a community of future leaders in the Asia-Pacific.  

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President at Western Sydney University

Hey, I'm Matthew.

I'm studying a Bachelor of International Studies and Laws at Western Sydney University. I am an AIIA NSW councillor and have participated in international affairs programs in India, Indonesia, Japan and Europe. I work as a law clerk and was included on the 2020 Western Sydney University Dean’s Merit List. I also volunteer at my local charity and engage in Australian multicultural forums. 

I have a passion for expanding Asia literacy in Australia and hope that AAYA will lay the groundwork for future leaders in the region.

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University of Wollongong

Hey, I'm Sarah.

A Filipino-Chinese currently pursuing a Bachelor of Business, majoring in International Business, at the University of Wollongong.

Having previously studied in Singapore and the UAE, my academic journey has shown me how interconnected and diverse our region is. Working with startups across Asia, I continue to see how local ventures can make an impact on a global scale. These experiences fuel my passion for entrepreneurship and the social enterprise space. 

As the president of AAYA UOW, I’m committed to strengthening ties between Asia and Australia by leading projects that bridge these two continents and connect young people who share a love for the region.

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President at Macquarie University

Hey, I'm Amy.

 I’m studying a double degree in Psychology and Cognitive & Brain Sciences at Macquarie University, driven by a strong passion for mental health. In 2025, I’ll be studying at Nanyang Technological University in Singapore as a New Colombo Plan Scholar, gaining hands-on experience in neuroscience and psychology while interning in the region to expand my cultural and professional understanding. I also volunteer with organisations, including the Cancer Council and Lifeline, to support meaningful community initiatives.

Being part of AAYA is an exciting opportunity to help strengthen connections between Australia and the Indo-Pacific. I look forward to working with like-minded individuals to foster meaningful cross-cultural engagement.

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President at Monash University

Hey, I'm Anusha.

I am currently pursuing a dual degree Master’s in International Development Practice from the Tata Institute of Social Sciences, Mumbai and Monash University, Melbourne. I formerly obtained an Honours degree in Political Science from the prestigious University of Delhi. 

While in India, I worked with several youth-led organisations in the international relations and geopolitics realm with research, diplomatic engagement and leadership roles. However, social work is where my heart lies. At AAYA Monash, we aim to forge rock-solid bonds for community engagement between Asia and Australia. 

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President at the University of Queensland

Hey, I'm Oliver.

I'm studying a dual Bachelor's in Commerce and Science, majoring in Accounting and Biomedical Science at the University of Queensland. I am also a 2025 Westpac Asian Exchange Scholar, studying at the National University of Singapore. While in Asia, I hope to make the most of my time, immersing myself cross-culturally and regionally while saying 'yes' and getting involved in every opportunity which comes my way. 

I have a passion for tropical and regional medicine, and I hope one day I can build resilient healthcare communities in untouched parts of Australia by establishing rural training programs. I genuinely believe this starts by contributing to the Asia-Australia relationship, and I cannot wait to see where this takes me.

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Vietnam Director

Hey, I’m Vanessa.

I am currently a Trainee Associate at a leading law firm in Ho Chi Minh City. I graduated with a law degree from Hanoi Law University, where I received the Lee & Ko law firm Globalized Era Scholarship for outstanding Vietnamese law students. I have also represented Vietnam at the ASEAN regional moot court competition, and coached law students in similar events. 

I’m passionate about promoting Vietnamese culture, supporting the exchange of academic knowledge, and fostering career growth for students and young professionals in Vietnam, Australia and across Asia through the AAYA Vietnam Chapter.

Connect with me here.