Strengthening Student Advocacy Through Strategic Collaboration

To address the challenges facing our community, particularly within our student demographic, Tony Kamau, President of Kenyans in Queensland, commenced the year with a strategic engagement meeting with Ethnic Communities Council of Queensland.

The meeting marked the beginning of a collaborative effort to support ECCQ in the development of an advocacy report focusing on mental health challenges and other critical issues affecting international and multicultural students.

Advancing Mental Health and Student Wellbeing Advocacy

The proposed advocacy report will document lived experiences, systemic gaps, and key challenges impacting students, with a strong emphasis on mental health and wellbeing. Once finalised, the report will be formally presented to Hermon Voster, MP, Assistant Minister for Multicultural Affairs and International Students Attraction.

This initiative represents an important step toward elevating student voices and ensuring that policy discussions are informed by real community needs and evidence-based insights.

Building Pathways for Student Success

KIQ is enthusiastic about advancing this advocacy to a new level and is confident that it will lead to meaningful outcomes, opportunities, and positive change for students within the community. The work underway will also inform the design of upcoming programs and events aimed at ensuring students are supported to thrive academically, professionally, and personally.

These initiatives will focus on empowering students to achieve their aspirations and transition successfully into the professional careers they envision.

Collaborative Representation and Leadership

Mr Kamau was accompanied to the meeting by Daisy Bett, representing the KIQ Student Council. ECCQ was represented by Ben Maiyo, Community and Co-design Project Officer, and Anna Rolandsen, Community Development and Engagement Manager.

The engagement reflected a shared commitment to collaboration, inclusive advocacy, and student-centred outcomes.

Looking Ahead

KIQ looks forward to the outcomes of this advocacy initiative and the positive impact it will have on the wider student community. Further announcements regarding aligned events and programs will be shared in due course.

As we move into the year ahead, we do so with optimism, purpose, and a strong commitment to supporting our students and strengthening our community.

Tony KamauPresident, Kenyans in Queensland