Ms Anna Jenkins1, Ms Joanna Shaw1
1La Trobe University, Bundoora, Australia
The year 2020, and the COVID-19 global pandemic has undoubtedly presented the greatest challenge ever faced by the higher education sector, and International students, in particular, have been overwhelmingly impacted by the global economic downturn, both within the employment industry in Australia, as well as family businesses, job and livelihood losses, and declining economies overseas.
In the absence of federally-funded income and financial supports for international students living and studying in Melbourne, Universities and institutions have come together with industry partners, corporate supporters, local councils, community groups, volunteer groups and state-government bodies to deliver much-needed financial supports to International Students, as they struggle to continue and complete their education.
Drawing on recent examples from La Trobe University’s International Student Support services, and partnerships developed with Medibank, Darebin, Banyule and Whittlesea councils, St Vincent de Paul and as well as La Trobe’s own student-led volunteer program “Two Birds, One Scone”, this presentation will illustrate how collaboration and cross- relationships have provided real and practical support in a period of extreme hardship, as well as opportunities to connect students with the wider community, contributing to the students’ resilience and survival during a time of crisis.
Biographies:
Joanna Shaw is a highly motivated professional with diverse experience in policy, partnerships, governance, relationship and project management, leadership, and international relations. She has successfully worked in higher education, State and local governments, the not-for-profit sector, and the United Nations. She has particular strengths in stakeholder management, communication, reporting, problem solving, and community engagement. Joanna has demonstrated results in building partnerships and establishing effective working relationships with a range of stakeholders. She is highly organised, has excellent written and verbal communication skills, and has proven cross cultural skills that includes experience in Australia, Europe, India, Pakistan, Nepal, the Lao PDR, Thailand, Cambodia, and Timor-Leste.
Anna Jenkins joined the International Student Services team at La Trobe University in 2015, as part of a small team, dedicated to improving and supporting the international student experience. She is a qualified Social Worker, and has worked with international, non English-speaking, migrant, vulnerable youth and refugee communities, in the higher education, community and not-for profit sectors, both within Australia and overseas, for over 16 years. She has held positions with Anglicare (Youth & Family Services), the Australian Red Cross, and the International Committee of the Red Cross prior to her role at La Trobe University. She has a passion for community engagement, social justice, and assisting and supporting vulnerable migrant groups.