Awards spotlight international student achievement and staff excellence
The NSW Department of Education hosted its annual NSW Government Schools International Student Awards Ceremony on Wednesday 18 March 2026 at the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia.
The awards recognised the remarkable achievements and contributions of international students studying in NSW government schools and outstanding work by schools and staff in supporting them.
A highlight of the event was a special video message from the Hon Prue Car, Deputy Premier of NSW and Minister for Education and Early Learning. The Deputy Premier congratulated the outstanding student finalists, and thanked school and staff finalists for their commitment to student support.
The student awards were presented by Mr Murat Dizdar, Secretary of the NSW Department of Education, who also gave the opening address, in which he underscored the important role of international education in developing intercultural competence across the student body.
Student award category winners
Academic Achievement Award Winner: Yeeun (Jenny) Lee (South Korea), Cumberland High School
In 2025, Jenny was recognised as Dux of Cumberland High School. She made the Distinguished Achiever’s list and received Band 6’s in Chemistry, Physics, English Advanced and English Extension 1. She was recognised as a 2025 HSC Top All-round Achiever, earning a result in the highest band across at least 10 course units.
Leadership Award Winner: 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.
School Service Award Winner: 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.
Ms Usha Deo, International Student Coordinator at Homebush Boys High School, accepted the award on behalf of Araf from Mr Murat Dizdar, Secretary of the NSW Department of Education
School and staff award category winners
International Student Coordinator of the Year: Colleen Lustig, Pittwater High School
Colleen has acted as a guide and supporter for international students at Pittwater High School. She has combined professionalism with kindness and compassion to ensure that international students felt safe and comfortable at school. Colleen has supported students throughout their journey at school and helped students during difficult and stressful times. Her care has helped her students feel less lonely when starting their journey in a new country.
International Student Support Award Winner: Kana Lai, Concord High School
Kana has demonstrated an outstanding commitment to supporting International Students. As a former international student, she provides practical advice to students to help them navigate Australian culture and enhance their English proficiency. Kana has created a buddy system for International Students to be paired with local students to help foster engagement and connection. Kana’s dedication, cultural insight, and unwavering support embody professional excellence and foster positive educational and personal experiences of international students.
International Students Program School Excellence Award Winner: Prairiewood High School
Prairiewood High School creates a respectful and safe learning environment for international students. The school has a diverse student population and a positive multicultural environment that fosters connection and cultural understanding. The school organises activities for the international students to participate in such as extra classes, wellbeing sessions, sports events, and excursions including a trip to Luna Park in Sydney.
Ms Deb Summerhayes, Deputy Secretary Public Schools, accepted the award on behalf of Prairiewood High School from Mr Martin Graham, Deputy Secretary, Teaching Learning and Student Wellbeing
Congratulations to all the finalists and winners!
Find out more about the International Students Program in NSW government schools:
https://deinternational.nsw.edu.au/study-options/study-programs/international-student-program