Meet the Team
National Executive
National President – Sean Teow
Kia Ora, 大家好, nama saya Sean Teow (I’m Sean Teow), your National President for NZISA this year. I’m a Malaysian as you can tell from the greetings but am privileged to have made so many connections with people from around the world during my journey in NZ.
Advocacy has been my life for the past 4 years, having worked to support international students in various roles and capacities, I’ve garnered a wealth of experience in knowing what works and what doesn’t work for our communities. It’s a difficult balance but one I stand confident in achieving.
I recently graduated from the University of Otago with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and History. During those years I saw and experienced the unique issues International Students faced, with ill hope of finding resolution, I wanted to do something about it. We deserve better and that’s why I’m here know to make sure we get the support we need.
My goals for this year is to get back to the roots of NZISA’s advocacy during its founding. We once lobbied for the Post-Study Work Visa to be longer and successfully implemented it. I aim to achieve something of that level this year too.
Our strength is in our communities, our cultures, our people. We are more than the tuition fees we pay, our value should not be defined by numbers but who we are as people.
I want you to know you’re never alone in your struggles. We stand together always. Be brave. I know it’s hard but you are strong. Our voice is stronger together. Believe that help can become a reality and I will make it so.
NZISA. From you. For you. Always.
Contact at: [email protected]
National Vice President – Vacant
National Secretary – Pauliasi Bauleka
Kia Ora and Bula Vinaka, my name is Pauliasi, or Pau as I prefer. I have the immense blessing of serving as Secretary of NZISA for 2024.
A little bit about me. I hail from the beautiful islands of Fiji, and am a proud representative of my home wherever I go! I first began my International Student journey in New Zealand as a Year 11 student back in 2020, and am now well into my second year of law at the Auckland University of Technology.
My passion for student advocacy stems from personal experience as a pasifika international student and the experience I want to get from being in this space.
Talanoa(conversation) plays a big part of who I am, and from a cultural perspective its a concept that I heavily rely on when I think, work, and interact. In a time where we leave our homes and the safety of our families to navigate new and sometimes difficult realities, its important we take time to reflect and share because I believe thats how we can produce better outcomes.
Contact at: [email protected]
National Treasurer – Vacant
Public Relations Officer – Irfaan Ariffin
Namaste and kia ora, Irfaan here! I am proud to serve as a passionate advocate as Public Relations Officer for the New Zealand International Students’ Association (NZISA). Currently pursuing Public Health at the University of Otago, I bring a strong academic foundation and a deep commitment to enhancing the international student experience for all.
NZISA is a pivotal organisation that champions the rights and well-being of international students studying in New Zealand. We work tirelessly to address the challenges faced by international students, including accommodation, healthcare access, and cultural integration.
As a member of NZISA’s leadership team, I collaborate closely with student representatives from universities nationwide to develop initiatives that promote cross-cultural understanding, celebrate diversity, and advocate for policies that benefit international students. We aim to empower students, provide resources, and amplify their voices within the broader educational landscape.
Together, we strive to build a more inclusive and welcoming environment that enriches the educational journey and personal growth of all students studying in New Zealand.
Contact at: [email protected]
Education Officer – Neha Gamre
Kia ora and Namaste!
My name is Neha Gamre and I am from a multicultural and multilingual country, India. Currently working as a teacher of English to speakers of other languages at a language school.
As the Education officer at NZISA for the year 2024, I am committed to shaping a transformative vision for the year ahead.
I moved to New Zealand in 2023 as an international student and have been passionate about student welfare and advocacy which led me here.
Drawing upon my recently completed MTESOL from the University of Canterbury, I aim to bring a fresh perspective to the realm of international education in New Zealand.
My vision is to foster cross-cultural understanding and inclusive, dynamic educational environment for every international student in New Zealand, to create a safer space and an approachable environment for each one.
Through innovative programs and collaborative initiatives, we will empower students to not only excel academically but also thrive as global citizens.
We take this journey ahead to redefine, engage, involve, and empathise to build bridges for a brighter interconnected future.
Contact at: [email protected]
Women’s Officer – Ann Cabanero
Kia ora! I’m Ann Cabanero, and I recently completed my postgraduate degree at Otago Polytechnic Auckland International Campus. It’s an exciting time for me as I step into the role of Women’s Officer for NZISA this year. It is a true privilege to have the opportunity to serve in this capacity and to connect with and support each of you in our international student community.
With a background in Applied Management, I have a solid understanding of the complexities and challenges that our communities face. My interests include traveling, learning about sustainable processes, watching movies, series, or documentaries, cooking, and reading classic books or novels.
As an international student, I understand the mix of excitement and uncertainty that comes with studying in a new country. I’ve experienced these complexities and difficulties myself, and I am ready to help wherever I can.
I envision a future where NZISA is synonymous with inclusivity and empowerment. Through strategic partnerships and collaborations, we seek to amplify our impact throughout New Zealand and among all international students. Our unwavering commitment is to foster a supportive environment where every student feels valued and heard.
Our journey towards better outcomes is collective, and I’m committed to walking alongside you every step of the way. Let’s make this academic year one of growth, support, and memorable achievements. I look forward to getting to know you and contributing to our shared success.
Contact at: [email protected]
Representative Council
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Auckland University of Technology Students’ Association – International Officer – Prayag Shethia
My name is Prayag Shethia and I am the incoming International Affairs Officer at AUT Student Association! I study Bachelor of Engineering (Honors) degree majoring in Mechatronics engineering! I come from Mumbai, India and being around a crowd has always made me feel comfortable helping and pushing as many as possible!
I am inclined to helping international students in their issues related to the university and mainly play an important role in comforting them as much as possible so that they can adjust as fast as possible! From networking and employment series to advocacy and academic help, I want to be as big a support as I can!
Lincoln University Students’ Association – International Representative – Balaji Leksshman
I am Balaji. I was born in Tamilnadu, a southern state of India, and completed my Bachelor’s in chemical engineering. I always wanted to be an industrialist so I decided to pursue my postgraduate degree in food innovation at Lincoln University.
I always look forward to learn, practice and improve myself everyday. Taking risks and maturing as an ideal personality is my way of attitude towards new situations and a new environment.
Being the International Representative for LUSA and being an NZISA Representative Council member is a great opportunity to help students and the international community. Apart from my studies and work, I’m a DJ, so I play and create electronic music in my free time.
New Zealand Chinese Students’ Association – President – Summer Xia
I am Summer the 2020 President of NZCSA (New Zealand Chinese Students’ Association). I am from Shenzhen China and have been in New Zealand for eight years.
I am currently doing 5th year Mechanical Engineering, Finance and Information Systems at UoA.
Otago University Students’ Association – International Students’ Officer – Arina Aizal
I’m Arina, a final year University of Otago student in Bachelor of Arts majoring Psychology and minoring Gender Studies. Just like you, I’m an international student. I have made Dunedin my home and I’m passionate about ensuring that international students here have an amazing and diverse cultural experience at Otago. I represent international students in terms of advocacy and also coordinating cultural events.
Victoria University of Wellington Students’ Association – President – Geo Robrigado
Waikato International Students’ Association – President – Kaitlyn Saunders
My name is Kaitlyn and I am the current President of the Waikato International Students’ Association (WISA). I am in my final year of a Bachelor of Business and am double majoring in Economics and Finance. I am a domestic student, but find it very important to make those who are from other countries feel welcome in New Zealand. As well as being president of an international student club, I am a mentor to incoming international students and a volunteer with the English Language Development program at the University of Waikato.
I am very proud to be the face of WISA as we aim to create a community that is welcoming and accepting to anyone and everyone. We host at least two international-themed events each year which promote our inclusive club environment.
WelTec and Whitireia – Student Connection President – Kamilla Korokhova
I’m Kamilla and I came from Russia to do my first-year Diploma in Business. As an international student, I was unfortunate to experience a lot of stress and struggles that needed to be carried on my own. I’m here now, making sure others don’t have to go through all that and have someone out there taking care of their experiences. At Student Connection, we do our best to support each and every individual with any issues they may have.
Auckland University Students’ Association – International Officer – vacant
Massey University Students’ Association – International Officer – vacant