2026 Mayor's Student Ambassadors

Moving to the Gold Coast for university represents a new chapter for me, and I want to contribute meaningfully to the city that will be my new home. I believe cities don't just grow through infrastructure - they grow through belonging.  

I chose the Gold Coast because Griffith University offers a strong focus in marketing, aligning with my interest in people, community and brands. Its visible commitment to inclusion also mattered to me, and having visited Australia before, the culture felt aligned with who I am. I love that I feel safe and supported here. Seeing people who look like me and being in an environment that values inclusion has been important. 

 My lived experience as a trans woman of colour navigating multiple cultures allows me to engage with people thoughtfully and inclusively. I'm calm under pressure, articulate in unfamiliar rooms, and deeply attuned to how environments make people feel - which I believe is essential in ambassadorial roles. 

The Mayor’s Student Ambassador program sits at the intersection of community, leadership, and representation - values that have shaped my life and work. I'm motivated by the opportunity to represent the Gold Coast with integrity, curiosity, and care, while learning how local leadership fosters vibrant, diverse communities. 

It means representing a version of the Gold Coast that reflects its diversity and future. For me, it’s about contributing to a city where people feel they belong, and where different identities and experiences are genuinely valued and understood.

Being part of the Mayor’s Student Ambassador program means representing the diverse student community on the Gold Coast while having the opportunity to grow professionally and build connections.  

I chose to continue my education on the Gold Coast for its mix of tourism, nature, and student life. I love the beautiful landscapes - the blend of the beaches with the hinterland and the balance between study, work and free time. With my background in tourism management in Brazil, I wanted to study in a coastal destination where I could connect tourism with data management, grow professionally, and gain international experience.  
 
I'm really interested in supporting the community with volunteer work. I've been volunteering and coordinating a survey for Connect 2 Home Gold Coast. The event helps people facing homelessness to get connected to community services, government agencies, and outreach. 
 
I'm really excited to learn, grow and experience everything we have on the Gold Coast. I want to connect to people and being able to contribute and grow with the community. 

Being a Mayor’s Student Ambassador means representing my school and community with pride. It’s an opportunity to use my voice to create positive change and collaborate with other students to make a meaningful impact. 

I'm excited to meet students from different backgrounds, build meaningful connections, and gain new perspectives. I believe collaborating with diverse peers will strengthen my abilities in and outside of school. I want to serve as a positive representative of my community. Being a Student Ambassador will help me grow as a leader while giving back to my city. 
 
I plan to use what I learn from this program to encourage student involvement and promote positive change. By representing my city with integrity and enthusiasm, I aim to inspire others to become more engaged and make a meaningful impact in our community. 

I love living and studying on the Gold Coast because of the strong sense of community and the wide range of opportunities. From academics to the arts, there’s always something to be involved in, making it an inspiring place to learn and grow.

When considering destinations to study, I investigated many different countries. The UK, Ireland, USA, or even staying in Canada. I got the offer to study at Griffith and hearing about the school’s support system along with the youthful spirit of Gold Coast, I immediately decided it was the place for me. 

Going into my second year living here, I have loved the environment and culture the city has to offer! It is a city full of life and diversity, and I am excited to showcase that. As a Mayor’s Student Ambassador, I can represent the international student community and contribute to shaping the Gold Coast experience for students.   

If I can make anyone’s journey a little easier than mine, I have done a good job! I’ve truly built a second family here, which has made my time here very fulfilling. I don’t know what I’d do without the support of my friends. 
 
Being a representative is no new feat for me. As president of the pre-med club and the prime minister of the student council at my high school, I have learned how to lead people.  I have learned how important it is to lead with a friendly face. This unique perspective ties perfectly with the responsibility of being a Mayor’s Student Ambassador.

I chose to study on the Gold Coast due to its growing demand for marketing professionals, aligning with my field of study and career goals. It also offers an excellent work–study–life balance, and its strong sports and outdoor culture matches my personal interests. 

Being a Mayor’s Student Ambassador is an opportunity to positively influence other students through my reach, while also contributing to my personal growth and professional development. 
 
I see it as an opportunity to contribute to my community while further developing my leadership and communication skills. With a strong interest in digital marketing, I am eager to develop my skills by promoting the program's events and initiatives. I am naturally proactive and enjoy taking initiative, especially in environments where collaboration and creativity are encouraged. I believe effective communication plays a crucial role in increasing student engagement, and I would love to contribute creative ideas that help connect more students to opportunities available to them. 
 
I am currently a Student Ambassador at Southern Cross University, and an ambassador for an organisation that hosts events for young entrepreneurs, with hundreds of attendees. Through this role, I have developed strong networking skills and a deeper understanding of how to engage and inspire ambitious young people.

Having grown up on the Gold Coast, I’ve always loved where I live. I chose to study locally to stay connected to my community and maintain a strong balance between social life and study.  

I am passionate about people and really enjoy connecting with those around me, hearing their stories and bringing positive energy into every space that I am in. Becoming a Student Mayor Ambassador presents an incredible opportunity to step outside my comfort zone, grow as a leader and meet new people from a diverse range of backgrounds. Combining my love for my city with my passion for people, this opportunity will allow me to represent my community with pride, enthusiasm and authenticity. 

In 2024 I took a gap year and travelled throughout Europe, gaining a broader perspective on culture, community and identity. While I valued every experience, it strengthened my appreciation for the lifestyle and opportunities we have on the Gold Coast. It shaped me into someone who values community, connection and representing where I come from. 

I hope to use this role to bring students together, encouraging involvement and promote pride in the Gold Cost. Stepping into this position would push me beyond my comfort zone, helping me build confidence and leadership skills while creating a positive and lasting impact within our community. 

I’m most excited about connecting with like-minded people and having the opportunity to experience new things on the Gold Coast.

The Gold Coast offers an incredible balance of study, work, nature and a community that I am proud to represent. As someone who has built their life and education here, I am honoured to act as an ambassador for the student community and understand how powerful connection and support can be. I want to share my journey, inspire students to embrace opportunities here, and contribute to the vibrant and diverse culture of this city.  

I moved to Australia from Belarus four years ago. Living in Surfers Paradise truly feels like living in paradise. Coming from a landlocked and flat country, I always dreamt of living between the ocean and the mountains. The Gold Coast felt like an inspiring and grounding place, not overwhelming like a big city. I love the balance here. I can study for hours in a high-tech environment, then in less than an hour be in the hinterland with no reception, recharging in nature. 

I bring genuine enthusiasm for community, leadership and representing the vibrant student life of the Gold Coast. Throughout my studies at Griffith University, I have actively taken on roles that allow me to support and represent other students.  

As an international student from Belarus, I bring a unique global perspective and cultural diversity. I speak Belarusian, Russian and English and am currently learning Spanish, which reflects my love for communication and connection.

Coming from a rural area in NSW and being the first in my immigrant family to attend university, I’m eager to grow personally and professionally. The Mayor’s Student Ambassador program will help me learn more about myself, make new connections and develop as a leader. 

I’ll use this opportunity to grow into the leader I never saw growing up - one that puts their community first. I want to uplift multicultural, international, and first-generation students who may feel unseen or uncertain. By sharing my story, I want to inspire others and create a stronger, more welcoming community. 

I chose to study on the Gold Coast because I created core memories with my friends and family here when I was younger. Even at a young age, the Gold Coast’s beauty and welcoming vibe captivated me, and I always told my parents I would move to the Gold Coast. 

I’m an extroverted person who loves connecting with others, which helps me step out of my comfort zone and say yes to new challenges. I bring leadership, cultural diversity, and community involvement to the MSA program.  

Having found my own sense of belonging here while far from family, I’m excited to connect with students, be involved in the community, and help showcase why the Gold Coast is such a welcoming place to live and study.

As a Mayor’s Student Ambassador, I want to represent young people, contribute to my community and grow as a leader while making new students feel welcomed and connected. 

Having recently moved to the Gold Coast for medical school, I can't think of a better way to get to know this city. It offers access to activities, communities and perspectives that are often unseen, giving me an exclusive opportunity to experience what makes the Gold Coast a top student destination.  
 
I bring a unique perspective as a dual British-Australian citizen of Chinese-Vietnamese descent who was born and raised in London. I'm well-versed in Aussie culture and slang, but I also understand the challenges of uprooting your life to a new city. 

I look forward to sharing this journey with like-minded students from around the world, forming friendships, and helping them feel at home. Learning how to lead, represent diverse voices and share stories that connect and inspire others are all skills that will support my aspirations in medicine, clinical education, and policymaking. 
 
I considered studying medicine in London, Melbourne and all Australian cities with medical schools but chose Griffith University on the Gold Coast. It’s located within the Health & Knowledge Precinct – one of the biggest clinical hubs in the Asia-Pacific. Given the fast-paced and intensive nature of medicine, the Gold Coast's relaxing atmosphere provides the perfect balance.

As a Mayor's Student Ambassador I want to contribute to a city that genuinely values student voice, inclusion and community connection. Growing up and studying on the Gold Coast, I have seen how local government, schools and community organisations shape the everyday experience of young people   

With a diverse and growing student population, I am motivated to help ensure students feel represented, supported and connected to their city. As an ambassador, I would focus on listening to student perspectives and highlight opportunities that strengthen wellbeing, belonging and leadership. This program aligns strongly with my commitment to service and community involvement while also supporting my development as a young leader who aims to make a meaningful contribution to the Gold Coast. 

Drawing on my experiences in youth advisory roles and my multicultural background, I aim to promote inclusion, wellbeing and civic participation. By sharing my experiences through social media, school networks and community organisations, I will highlight opportunities for students from all backgrounds to engage and contribute. Building connections with fellow ambassadors, educators and local leaders will enable me to support sustainable, youth-led initiatives and prepare me for future leadership and public service pathways. 

I’ve considered universities in Brisbane, interstate and on the Gold Coast, focusing on strong academics, leadership opportunities and well-rounded student experiences. I love the balance of lifestyle and opportunity. The Gold Coast offers strong education, a supportive community and an environment that keeps you active, motivated and engaged.

Becoming a Mayor’s Student Ambassador means being a voice. I’ve always been passionate about making a positive impact and want to inspire others. This program will allow me to sharpen my leadership skills, build lasting connections and create positive opportunities for myself and those around me. 

I bring a strong blend of leadership, cultural awareness and community service. In high school, I held various leadership roles, which allowed me to organise events, learn how to work in a team with my peers, and manage my time.  

I will use this opportunity to strengthen my leadership skills, increase community engagement and inspire other young ladies and people of colour. I hope to create a positive space in my community, by encouraging others to pursue their passion, contribute to community projects and develop skills that benefit both myself and those around me. I want to create a space that feels like home for both new and old people of our community. 

I had never been to the Gold Coast before I started learning here. I was researching good universities in Australia and I stumbled upon Griffith University. I first liked the campus, but the more I read about the Gold Coast and compared it to the other areas in Australia, the more I fell in love! I love that everyone is so welcoming and there's so much to do here - always something new for me to try.

As a Mayor’s Student Ambassador I’m excited to immerse myself in the Gold Coast's diverse student life and bridge that experience back to the community in Korea. I’ve realieed that the true international student experience should extend far beyond campus walls. Currently, the Korean community relies heavily on KakaoTalk groups dedicated solely to studying, with a noticeable lack of platforms sharing the city's vibrant lifestyle and leisure activities.  

I want to change this narrative. Utilising my expertise in diverse Korean-targeted digital channels, I want to showcase the Gold Coast's rich culture, entertainment, and the incredible lifestyle benefits available to us. My goal is to encourage my peers to step outside, balance their hard work, and fully embrace the unforgettable cultural experiences that make studying in this city truly unique. 

The Gold Coast is the perfect synergy of climate and community. The weather naturally pulls you outdoors, making wellness feel like a shared social priority rather than a solo chore. Whether it's a sunrise run or the relaxed energy of the locals, the environment here truly fuels both focus and health. 

One of the deciding factors for me to study here was a recommendation I received at an educational expo. The representatives highlighted Griffith’s integration with the Gold Coast Health and Knowledge Precinct, which perfectly aligned with my interest in the region's sophisticated wellness culture and academia.

Being a Mayor’s Student Ambassador means representing students, promoting inclusion, and giving back to the community. It is an opportunity to lead, inspire others, and showcase the Gold Coast as a welcoming student city. I hope to be a voice for students, connect cultures, and create meaningful impact through community initiatives. 

As a fourth-year student at Griffith University, I have actively engaged in student leadership and advocacy. Serving as President of the Bangladesh-Students-Association Gold-Coast and as a Student-Liaison-Committee member has enabled me to support student wellbeing, promote inclusion, and strengthen communication between students, universities, and the wider community.  

Through this program, I hope to further contribute by supporting students, encouraging participation, and strengthening student connections across the Gold Coast. I’d also like to develop my leadership, advocacy, and communication skills, aligning with my goal of serving communities through evidence-based practice and public engagement.  

I considered Australia, Canada, and the UK as study options, focusing on universities with strong medical science programs. Griffith University stood out for its practical approach, modern facilities, and supportive environment for international students. I chose the Gold Coast for its safe, welcoming environment, high-quality education, and lifestyle. It offers great balance between study and wellbeing, with strong student support and a vibrant multicultural community.

As a Mayor’s Student Ambassador, I’m honoured to represent a location and community that I’m beyond proud to be a part of. I’m excited to connect with people from diverse backgrounds, continue to learn and grow, and share what makes the Gold Coast such a special place to study, live and call home. 

Through this role, I aim to elevate issues affecting students and families, particularly around accessibility, mental wellbeing, inclusion, and equitable access to services. I will use my academic background in psychology to contribute evidence-informed insights and my lived experience to ground discussions in real community needs.   

By engaging in consultations, community events, and feedback pathways, I intend to ensure student voices are represented authentically and constructively. In the longer term, this experience will support my goal of ongoing civic engagement and community leadership, creating sustainable, positive change that extends beyond the duration of the program. 

I bring strong communication, leadership, and advocacy skills developed through my role as a Student Ambassador at Southern Cross University, where I represent the university at outreach and recruitment events and support prospective students. This role has strengthened my ability to engage diverse audiences, build rapport, and represent the student experience.   

I chose to study on the Gold Coast for its unique sense of community and lifestyle, where people are active, connected, and genuinely welcoming, creating a place where I feel a strong sense of belonging and where I intend to continue to build my future.

Having moved to the Gold Coast only five months ago, I am still in the early stages of discovering what the city has to offer. This program will allow me to build a stronger connection with my new hometown and explore the “real” Gold Coast. Its culture, diversity, events, and community spirit. I’m eager to contribute my positive energy, cultural perspective, and passion for connection to help foster an inclusive and supportive student community.  
 
Being a Mayor’s Student Ambassador means a lot to me because I’ve experienced starting fresh in a new place. I understand both the excitement and challenges of settling into a new city, building networks, and finding a sense of belonging.   

Studying abroad was challenging at first, as everything felt new, at times overwhelming, and lonely. I overcame this by living with a host family and joining communities, which helped me feel at home and balance my studies, wellbeing, and activities. 

I hope to support students, especially international students, by making them feel welcomed, informed, and engaged within the Gold Coast community. I see this as an opportunity to strengthen my leadership, communication, and networking skills as I work toward building a community-focused career. 

I have always wanted to study in Australia, as it’s close to home, and having lived in Darwin, the transition felt natural. Bond University felt like the right place for me as I continue my journey in the construction industry. I chose the Gold Coast because its beaches and relaxed lifestyle remind me of home, while still offering a new experience.

To me, being a Mayor’s Student Ambassador means sharing the feeling I’ve experienced of truly being at home here. I want every student or visitor to feel welcomed, supported, and included, and to discover the same sense of belonging and excitement I’ve found on the Gold Coast. 

I visited it as a tourist a few years ago and fell in love with this city from the first moment. There is something special in the atmosphere. I did consider Sydney, but coming from Barcelona I was looking for a different lifestyle. 

The lifestyle is what I love most about the Gold Coast. As a creative, studying near the ocean and nature makes every day inspiring. The Gold Coast supports people, welcomes everyone, and for me, even so far from home, it’s a safe place to grow, dream, and build my future. 

Having studied and lived in different countries, I can easily connect with students from diverse backgrounds and understand the challenges of adapting to a new place.  

This program feels like the perfect way to grow my leadership and communication skills while having fun and making a real impact. I’m excited to bring energy, enthusiasm, and a positive attitude to events, and new adventures!  By sharing my journey, adapting to life abroad, trying new activities, and immersing myself in the local culture, I hope to inspire others to get involved, embrace diversity, and learn from each other.

This role will allow me to build stronger connections across the student community and support meaningful initiatives. I am enthusiastic about helping promote the Gold Coast as an inspiring, welcoming place to live, study and grow. 

I am deeply passionate about representing the city that has shaped my academic, and personal growth.  The community on the Gold Coast is so welcoming and relaxed. I have fallen in love with the lifestyle and cultural diversity here. 

I’ll use this opportunity to grow as a leader while giving back to the Gold Coast community that has given me so much. I’m excited to share my genuine student experience, connect with others and encourage students to get involved, feel supported and belong. I enjoy bringing people together and creating positive, inclusive spaces. 

My background as a Family Lawyer has given me strong advocacy skills, ethical awareness and the ability to connect with people from diverse and often vulnerable backgrounds. This experience shaped my values and reinforced my commitment to creating a positive social impact. 

Beyond my professional experience, I actively build and lead next to my partner a running community on the Gold Coast that brings together international students and locals. Through this, I create inclusive, supportive spaces where people feel connected and proud to be part of the Gold Coast. I lead with purpose, authenticity and care, which I believe are essential qualities for a Student Ambassador.

Being a Mayor’s Student Ambassador means representing the student community, building connections, and contributing positively to the Gold Coast. It’s an opportunity to support others, promote inclusivity, and grow both personally and professionally, while giving back to the community. As a social work student, I'm passionate about helping others feel included, supported, and seen. 

Through this role, I hope to learn more about the city, connect with diverse students and support initiatives that showcase the Gold Coast as an inclusive and vibrant place to study and live. As an international student, I bring lived experience navigating a new country, establishing networks, and learning how to make a place feel like home. I want to share information, opportunities, and events with students who may not know what resources are available. 

I considered studying in Australia, the UK, and Malaysia. In Australia, I explored universities like Melbourne, Monash, RMIT, La Trobe, UQ, Griffith, and Western Sydney for their accredited MSW programs and strong clinical pathways before choosing Griffith University. 

I chose the Gold Coast because it offers a supportive student community, quality education, and strong placement opportunities in health and social services. The lifestyle, safety, and balanced environment also make it an ideal place to study, live, and build professional connections. 

I love the Gold Coast’s friendly community, beautiful beaches, warm weather, and relaxed lifestyle. Studying here is enjoyable with good public transport, easy access to campus, and plenty of cafes, nature spots, and safe places to unwind. It feels like the perfect balance of study and living.

Being a Mayor’s Student Ambassador means using my experiences to support others and make a positive impact in my community. It’s about standing up for inclusion, representing students honestly, and helping create an environment where everyone feels respected and welcome. 

I want to represent students in an authentic and relatable way. Throughout my time as a Gold Coast student, I have grown significantly. I have challenged myself to step outside my comfort zone and become more confident and outgoing. Because I understand how difficult that journey can be, I can genuinely relate to students who are still finding their voices and encourage them to embrace new opportunities.   

I’m involved in a range of activities, from dragon dancing to representative netball, which has allowed me to connect with diverse groups of students across the Gold Coast and beyond. Through this program, I hope to represent not only confident leaders, but also students who are growing and learning each day, just as I am. 

I plan to leverage this opportunity to strengthen my leadership and communication skills as I want to pursue engineering, a field that remains largely male-dominated.  

As a young woman, I want to challenge stereotypes and encourage greater female representation in STEM. This program would give me the confidence and platform to advocate for equality and show that young women belong in every space. I also value youth voice and believe students deserve meaningful representation. By developing my skills and using my experiences, I hope to inspire others and create a positive impact within my school and the wider community.

Through this ambassadorship, I plan to bridge connections between international and local students, drawing on my own journey as a second-generation immigrant from Moldova, raised in Canada, and now studying on the Gold Coast. By sharing my personal story and highlighting the Gold Coast’s world-class opportunities through social media, I hope to inspire students both here and in my communities abroad. 

As a second-generation immigrant from Moldova, raised in Vancouver, Canada, and now pursuing a Bachelor of Medical Science at Griffith University, I have developed a unique global perspective and a strong desire to contribute. I’m excited to represent and celebrate the Gold Coast’s vibrant, multicultural community and promote it as a premier study destination. The Ambassadorship program perfectly aligns with my values as a pre-medical student, blending professional development with meaningful community engagement.  

I look forward to gaining new experiences, creating impactful content, and building a network that enhances my studies. Above all, I hope to use this platform to give back to my new home and highlight the Gold Coast’s exceptional opportunities for growth. 

Studying at Griffith is especially rewarding due to the modern facilities and hands-on learning approach provided by expert faculty. The quality of education paired with the city’s global outlook, made it the perfect place for my medical journey. I love the balance between professional growth and personal well-being here. The Gold Coast offers a unique blend of dynamic city life and stunning natural landscapes.