Settling into a new country and culture can be both exciting and challenging. Each year, UWA welcomes Australia Awards scholars. This prestigious scholarship, funded by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, allows emerging leaders from 55 participating countries to pursue full-time study in Australia. The experience empowers the students to return home and contribute to their nations’ development, prosperity and resilience.

For UWA scholars, AusConnect provides a vital bridge to help them adapt and thrive in the community. Through connections with alumni, ambassadors and fellow students, participants gain not only practical support but also a sense of belonging. Since its launch in 2011, the program has fostered meaningful connections and enriched the lives of both students and alumni.

UWA alumna Dr Linley Mitchell (MBBS ’78) and her husband, Dr Henry Simmons, have embodied the spirit of AusConnect, hosting more than 11 students over many years from countries such as Cambodia, Fiji, Gambia, Ghana, Indonesia, Nigeria, Papua New Guinea, Timor-Leste and Vanuatu. Their commitment has seen them going above and beyond to help each student experience more than what was listed in the program.

“We decided to join as we like meeting new people and know how lonely it can be to come to a foreign country where you don’t know anyone,” Linley said. “We always invite them for dinner and try to do it every few months. We’ve taken some sailing, to restaurants, or for a weekend away.”

In 2023, Linley and Henry were matched with Philip Kais (Master of Hydrogeology) and Sharon Koitut (Master of Environmental Science), a couple from Papua New Guinea. Their thoughtful planning has provided many enriching experiences;  from casual dinners with other alumni, to arranging playdates with their grandchildren, fostering a deep sense of connection.

“They have regularly invited us for dinner at their home, taken us to the Sculpture By The Sea art exhibition in Cottesloe, and even arranged playdates for their grandchildren with our sons,”

Philip said.

The benefits of AusConnect go both ways. For Linley and Henry, the most rewarding part of hosting students is getting to know the students and learning about their countries and what they are studying.

“They enrich our lives and those of our friends who meet them,” Henry said. “Most of all, it is good fun!”

Philip and Sharon echoed this sentiment, highlighting the genuine care and curiosity of their hosts, shown in many ways, from checking in on the progress of research projects to introducing them to their connections. As Philip and Sharon prepare to graduate, they are reflecting on the invaluable support Linley and Henry provided.

“Every time we go for dinner at their house, we get to meet some of their friends,” Sharon said. “They regularly message us to see how we’re doing and if we need help with anything. Dr Linley and Dr Henry have become like our family.”

Since its roots in the Colombo Plan (established in 1951), UWA has hosted some of the brightest minds from participating countries. Notable alumni include The Honourable Professor Dr Boediono (BEc (Hons) ’67, Dec ’11), former vice-president of the Republic of Indonesia, and Dato Sri Wong Soon Koh (BA ’69), a senior government leader and minister in the Sarawak State Government, Malaysia.

Linley and Henry wholeheartedly encourage their fellow alumni to become hosts, emphasising the unique opportunity to connect with students from diverse backgrounds. As they describe it, hosting fosters a rewarding exchange of ideas and experiences, enabling meaningful conversations that span topics from cuisine to climate, while cultivating a global perspective.

AusConnect is more than a volunteering initiative—it’s a lifeline for students adapting to life in Australia. By fostering connections and providing meaningful support, alumni and ambassadors such as Linley and Henry help transform the student experience into one of discovery, growth, and belonging. For students, this program is not just about navigating a new environment; it’s about finding a community that feels like home.

If you’re interested in becoming an AusConnect Ambassador and hosting one of the 2025 Australia Awards scholars, submit your interest by completing this form.