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My Australia Awards Story: A Transformative Experience
What are your most memorable experiences living and studying in Australia?
My most memorable experiences living and studying in Australia have been a mix of academic growth and cultural discovery. Studying at the University of Melbourne exposed me to world-class teaching and dynamic classroom discussions where diverse perspectives really challenged my way of thinking. I especially valued the small-group seminars where debates felt both rigorous and collaborative.
Outside the classroom, I found meaning in Melbourne’s multicultural environment. From sharing meals with classmates of different backgrounds to exploring the city’s laneway cafés and weekend markets, I felt a strong sense of belonging in a truly global community. Joining local student networks like UMIS (University of Melbourne Islamic Society) and working on group projects (like video recording, slide presentation, etc.) also allowed me to build friendships that went beyond academics.
Equally memorable were the little everyday experiences—commuting on the tram, adapting to “four seasons in a day,” and celebrating milestones with fellow students who became like family (shoutout to Elgin Family). A highlight of my studies was also the opportunity to take an overseas subject in Yogyakarta, Indonesia, where I spent a week engaging with local communities and deepening my understanding of regional development issues. This experience further broadened my perspective and strengthened my commitment to cross-cultural collaboration.
Another milestone was completing my 200-hour internship at the Centre for Multicultural Youth (CMY) in Melbourne, where I was able to apply what I learned in the classroom to real-world policy and program work, particularly in advancing the inclusion and empowerment of migrant and refugee youth.
What makes Australia a good place for postgraduate education?
Australia is an excellent place for postgraduate education because it combines academic quality, cultural diversity, and strong support for international students. Its universities consistently rank among the world’s best, offering research-driven teaching and access to leading scholars. The academic environment also emphasises critical thinking, innovation, and practical application, which are essential for advanced studies.
Beyond academics, Australia is home to a vibrant multicultural society that makes it welcoming for students from different backgrounds (especially for a Muslim like me). This diversity enriches classroom discussions and fosters networks that extend globally. The government and institutions also provide robust student support services—from academic mentoring to mental health and career development—which helps students thrive both inside and outside the classroom
Finally, studying in Australia offers opportunities to engage with regional and global policy challenges, making it particularly valuable for fields like public policy, management, and law. The balance between academic excellence, cultural openness, and real-world relevance makes Australia a compelling choice for postgraduate education.
As Filipino scholar, what are you most proud of?
Aside from graduating with First Class Honours, what I am most proud of as a Filipino scholar is being able to represent my country on an international stage and prove that Filipinos can excel globally. Coming from a community where opportunities are not always abundant, I take pride in showing that perseverance and commitment can open doors not only for myself but also for others who aspire to follow the same path.
I am proud to carry with me the values of resilience, compassion, and bayanihan, which guide me in my academic journey and in my work for youth and community development. More than personal achievement, I see my success as a reflection of the collective hopes of my family, my community, and the many young Filipinos who dream of creating meaningful change for our country.
Give one word to describe your Australia Awards journey.
Tranformative!
Empowered by your Australian education, how do you plan to make a difference in your field, community, or organisation in the Philippines?
Empowered by my Australian education, I plan to make a difference as a Local Youth Development Officer by strengthening youth participation in governance and ensuring that young people in my community are given meaningful spaces to lead. My studies in Australia have equipped me with knowledge on inclusive policy design, evidence-based decision-making, and collaborative governance—tools that I intend to bring into local youth programs and policies.
I aim to translate these lessons into initiatives that empower young people in Jolo and beyond: creating more opportunities for skills development, expanding access to education and health programs, and institutionalizing platforms where youth voices can directly influence local decision-making. By doing so, I hope to nurture a generation of leaders who are not only active participants but also drivers of sustainable development in our municipalities.
Ultimately, my goal is to bridge global perspectives with local realities, ensuring that the youth sector in the Philippines becomes a strong partner in building more inclusive, resilient, and forward-looking communities.
Alfadzni Haddimah completed his Master of Public Policy and Management from the University of Melbourne in 2025. He is the Youth Development Officer III of Jolo Municipal Government.
