Meet our people
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 –
Contact at: [email protected]
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]
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]