2026 International Student Awards Finalists announced

Xinni (Cynni) Dan (China)
Asquith Girls High School

Cynni is a dedicated student leader who enhances inclusion and engagement at Asquith Girls High School. As School Representative Council (SRC) member, Prefect for Global Citizenship and International Student Leader, she supports peers through orientation, mentoring, and wellbeing initiatives. Respected for her maturity and empathy, she fosters cultural understanding and strengthens the school community.

Ngoc Quynh Le Hoang (Vietnam)
Canley Vale High School

Le is an exceptional student leader whose service has enriched Canley Vale High School. As SRC leader and school captain, she coordinates major events, delivers key speeches, and drives charity initiatives raising over $4000. A strong advocate for international students, she promotes belonging and unity. Her achievements have earned wider community recognition.

Hai Dang (Daniel) Pham (Vietnam)
Marrickville High School

Daniel is a respected leader at Marrickville High School, advocating for international students through his roles in the SRC and as a captain. He supports peers’ transition to school life and builds community through volunteering, cultural events, and sport. His commitment to inclusion and strong sense of responsibility make him a valued role model.

Sin-Ning (Ashley) Huang (Taiwan region)
Concord High School

Ashley is an accomplished cellist whose musical excellence enriches Concord High School and the wider community. Through ensembles, concerts, HSC support and community performances, she demonstrates dedication, generosity, and cultural respect. Recipient of the school’s International Student Award, she embodies service, artistry and strong commitment to school life.

Araf Iaj Khan (Bangladesh)
Homebush Boys High School

Araf is a highly engaged student whose outstanding service spans volunteering, leadership, cultural inclusion, sport, and career development. A double recipient of the Premier’s Student Volunteering Diamond Award, Senior Prefect and peer mentor, he leads major school events and advocates for student wellbeing. He exemplifies integrity, commitment and community spirit.

Efrain Nicholas Tanama (Indonesia)
Sydney Secondary College Blackwattle Bay Campus

Efrain is a dedicated student leader who has represented international students through his Prefect role and major school events. He contributes to Diversity Day, athletics activities, youth programs with the City of Sydney, and mentors peers in Technological and Applied Studies (TAS) subjects.

Marcelo Letian Zeng Zhu (Chile)
Epping Boys High School

Marcelo has demonstrated outstanding academic excellence, achieving top results across multiple subjects. He placed first in class in Years 7 and 8, topped Accelerated Business Studies, Geography, Maths Extension 1 and Chemistry, and achieved a Band 6 in Business Studies. He plans to study Actuarial Studies at UNSW.

Zhenxin (Cecilia) Yuan (China)
Burwood Girls High School

Cecilia is an exceptional high achiever, awarded the Commonwealth Parliamentarian’s Merit Award for Academic Achievement 2024. She achieved First in Course results in HSC Biology, Chemistry, and Mathematics Extension 1 and 2, and was named Year 11 Dux, reflecting her dedication and academic excellence.

Yeeun (Jenny) Lee (South Korea)
Cumberland High School

Jenny has an outstanding record of academic achievement across sciences and humanities. In 2024, she placed first in Biology, English Advanced and Extension, Physics, and Mathematics Extension 1 and 2 as a Year 11 accelerant. Her consistent excellence makes her a standout scholar and role model.