Two Indian students have been honoured in Victoria’s prestigious “International Student of the Year” awards, highlighting their leadership in community support, STEM education and cultural engagement. The recognition reflects the growing impact of Indian learners contributing to regional and metropolitan student life in Australia.
Vish Goswami, a Master of Construction Management (Professional) student at Deakin University, received the Regional Award for his work in Geelong. He has played a central role in helping international students settle into the community, offering mentorship, career guidance and academic support. His initiative, “BuildHub Deakin,” has become a platform for networking and industry exposure.
Beyond academics, Goswami has volunteered with organisations such as Study Melbourne and the Australian Red Cross. His involvement in student governance and support services has made him a prominent advocate for international student wellbeing.
Angela Sojan, a Bachelor of Science graduate from the University of Melbourne, was named the Higher Education International Student of the Year. She has been actively engaged in STEM outreach, particularly encouraging young women and under-represented communities to pursue careers in science and space studies.
Her work with the Girl Power programme and the Victorian Space Science Education Centre has been widely praised. She has also contributed to research recognised internationally and has been acknowledged by the Australian aerospace community for her early achievements.
Sojan has held leadership roles within her university, including as Diversity and Inclusion Officer for the Mathematics and Statistics Society. Her community efforts extend to child-health education and initiatives supporting artists with disabilities.
Together, the achievements of Goswami and Sojan reflect the significant role international students play in shaping Victoria’s academic, cultural and social environment. Their recognition reinforces the importance of fostering inclusive, supportive and globally connected student communities.
