Australia Awards South and West Asia

Australia Awards scholar Halida Mohamed Mahroof from Sri Lanka is a dedicated Human Resources (HR) professional. She is currently pursuing a double degree Master of Human Resource Management and Employment Relations / Master of International Business at Griffith University with the support of an Australia Awards Scholarship. Below, she shares in her own words her thoughts about her Scholarship experience, the delightful moments she is enjoying in Australia and the professional development opportunities she has gained.

Stepping off the plane in Australia, a land known for its stunning landscapes and vibrant culture, I began a transformative journey as an Australia Awards scholar. The Scholarship is not just a ticket to academic excellence; it has opened doors to many opportunities that have enriched my professional and personal life.

My Australia Awards Scholarship has offered unparalleled chances for professional development, leadership enhancement and expansive networking. I have been privileged to receive a professional development grant twice during my Scholarship, allowing me to attend significant conferences.

My first foray into the professional world of HR in Australia was participating in the Australian HR Institute’s South Australian State Conference at the iconic Adelaide Oval on 25-26 October 2023. This event was a confluence of professionals eager to reshape the HR landscape. The conference equipped me with tools and strategies to innovate within my field, exploring themes like leadership, the future of work and digital transformation. The opportunity to connect with HR peers and business leaders was invaluable, expanding my network and my understanding of Australian best practices in HR.

Halida at the Australian HR Institute’s South Australian State Conference.

The second professional development grant I received supported me to attend the Diversity and Inclusion Summit on 23 August 2024 in Perth, where I honed my leadership skills and learnt strategies to lead diverse teams effectively. The discussions on fostering inclusive work environments were enlightening, providing actionable insights into improving team performance and harnessing the power of diversity.

However, the richness of my Australian experience has extended beyond participating in conferences. Through various networking and entertainment events organised by Australia Awards – South Asia & Mongolia, I have interacted with scholars from diverse backgrounds. The Scholars Symposium held at the University of Queensland was particularly impactful, offering a platform for Australia Awards scholars from across the region to co-create and exchange knowledge with each other.

Halida (third from left) and other scholars from South Asia and Mongolia with the Speaker of the House of Representatives, the Hon Milton Dick MP, at the Australia Awards Scholars Symposium in Brisbane.

Participating in events like NAIDOC Week and activities organised for World Environment Day like the Goompi Trail Walk on Minjerribah (Stradbroke Island) and explorations of the Boondall Wetlands, offered me a refreshing break from academic rigours. These experiences allowed me to connect further with fellow scholars and explore Australia’s breathtaking natural beauty.

Australia Awards scholars from South Asia and Mongolia, including Halida (second from left), learn about Indigenous knowledge of environmental time signatures from Matthew Burns, a proud Quandamooka man, on the Goompi Trail.

A notable highlight of my Scholarship journey was attending the Thematic Event on Clean Energy Innovation arranged by Australia Awards at the University of New South Wales (UNSW) in Sydney. Witnessing UNSW’s clean energy initiatives and listening to solar energy pioneer Professor Martin Green was an inspiring experience. The event highlighted the global importance of sustainability and innovation, and ignited my passion for impactful leadership.

These diverse experiences fuelled my confidence, helping me embrace leadership roles within the university. As the representative for postgraduate students on Griffith University’s Academic Committee and the Student Experience Sub-committee, I have participated in crucial decision-making processes that affect student life. I have also organised career development events as a postgraduate coordinator for the Griffith Employment Relations and Human Resource Management Society. At the same time, my role as a student mentor has allowed me to guide fellow students through their academic journeys.

Halida (third from left) participating in a focal group discussion with fellow scholars at the Australia Awards Thematic Event on Clean Energy Innovation at UNSW.

Despite a bustling schedule filled with studies, assessments and co-curricular activities, I have never missed an opportunity to explore Australia’s majestic landscapes. From strolls along its idyllic beaches to adventurous hikes through its national parks, every moment is a testament to the incredible journey my life has become.

My time in Australia as an Australia Awards scholar has been nothing but empowering. The blend of academic pursuits, professional growth, cultural immersion and personal exploration has left an indelible mark on my life. It has prepared me to face future challenges with confidence and grace, equipped with a global perspective, and enriched by the friendships and experiences that now form the tapestry of my Australian life.