AUSA Election Candidate Interviews: International Students Officer

Craccum interviews Mohammed Amer, Sakshi Patil, Ehansa De Silva, and Jason Kng Wei Liang on their campaigns for International Students Officer.

Note: All candidates running for this role were contacted for an interview. Matthew Zha, Daehan Hwang, Matthew Wong, Siyi Li, and Abu Saleh Mohammed Eisa Akib did not respond.

Question 1. How would you describe yourself in 5 words?

Mohammed: Empathetic, analytical, approachable, collaborative, resilient.

Sakshi: Cheerful, determined, reliable, curious, warm.

Ehansa: Positive, Enthusiastic, Ambitious, Resilient and Passionate

Jason: Approachable, compassionate, proactive, inclusive, trustworthy.

Question 2. Which of your ideas/initiatives are you most excited to implement next year?

Mohammed: I am most excited about establishing an International Student Advisory & Peer Support Network. Moving to a new country involves adapting to unfamiliar academic structures, visa regulations, and local workplace cultures. I want to set up dedicated peer-mentoring groups and quarterly career integration workshops that connect international students directly with local industry professionals, alumni, and campus services. By providing clear guidance on navigating post-study pathways, academic expectations, and local living, we can help international students feel supported from their very first day at UoA.

Sakshi: I’m most excited about creating clear, accessible communication pathways for international students. As someone who has navigated the transition into a new academic system myself, I know how important it is to have information that is easy to find and support that feels approachable. I’m also passionate about building stronger community‑building spaces like places where international students can connect, share experiences, and feel a sense of belonging. Whether through cultural events, peer‑support circles, or collaborative workshops, I want international students to feel seen, valued, and supported. Overall, I’m looking forward to making the international student experience more confident, connected, and well‑supported through clearer guidance and stronger community engagement.

Ehansa:

• New office hours open for international students to come in and directly talk to me about issues that they are facing and to provide weekly consultation.

• Introducing an International Student Lounge dedicated for all international students on campus (there are spaces for all other communities but not for international students)

• Stronger peer mentoring

• Strengthening the International Committee and holding bigger events

Jason: The creation of a unique International Student Support Fund is what most excites me. Unexpected financial strains, such as growing living expenses or personal problems, can arise when studying abroad. A student's capacity to fully engage in university life and, in certain situations, their academic performance may be impacted.

Instead of merely a stringent qualifying cap, I want this fund to offer extra support to overseas students who are truly struggling financially. Instead of taking the place of current scholarships and university support, it should enhance them.

What is really important to me is that one should be able to receive support when their circumstances change, even if they are currently on some scholarships etc. Financial challenges don't neatly fall into pre-established categories. The fund also symbolizes, in my opinion, what an International Students Officer ought to be: a connection, an advocate, and a listener. In addition to advocating for workable solutions with AUSA and the university, I want to listen to students who are facing these challenges and assist in connecting them with the resources that are available to them.

Question 3. The International Students Officer (ISO) is responsible for making sure that the voices and needs of international students are heard by the University. What would you say are some of the biggest challenges that international students face at UoA? How would you help?

Mohammed: The biggest challenges include navigating complex administrative processes, language and cultural barriers in academic environments, and the sense of social isolation that often comes with moving abroad. Additionally, balancing high international tuition costs with strict visa work restrictions creates significant financial stress.

To address these challenges, I will:

• Streamline Support Channels: Advocate for dedicated, centralized support desks within university services to simplify academic and administrative queries for international students.

• Enhance Career & Legal Guidance: Work with UoA Career Development Services and student advisory teams to run targeted workshops on visa rights, workplace compliance, and internship opportunities. 

• Foster Inclusive Social Spaces: Organize intercultural events and study circles where international and domestic students can connect naturally, share experiences, and build a strong campus community.

Sakshi: International students often face challenges around adjusting to academic expectations, understanding university processes, managing wellbeing while away from home, and navigating cultural differences. Many also struggle with communication gaps, visa‑related stress, fina:ncial pressures, and not knowing what support systems exist.

To help, I want to: • Improve visibility of international‑specific support services • Strengthen communication channels between students and teaching teams • Create clear guidance pathways for academic, administrative, and wellbeing processes • Build community spaces that reduce isolation and encourage connection • Support wellbeing through structured check‑ins and resource awareness

My goal is to make sure international students feel informed, supported, and confident throughout their journey at UoA.

Ehansa: I think the biggest challenge they would face here is adapting and finding new information. At least for me, it was this very problem. Most of them come here as students on their very first trip abroad from their home countries, which takes a lot of courage. And coming here without any guardian, and figuring things all out is quite overwhelming, and I definitely think a little bit of guidance and support could go a long way. That is why one of my key initiatives is stronger peer mentoring and drop-in sessions so they feel they are not lost in a whole new country without anyone's help. I would also like to create a handbook for international students with updated information which makes living in Aotearoa easier. 

Jason: When adjusting to university life, international students encounter a variety of difficulties. Homesickness, cultural adjustment, financial hardship, academic pressure, and navigating a new system, amongst many. Practical issues like paperwork, visas, lodging, and avenues for assistance when something goes wrong can also be unclear. Instead of awaiting a crisis point, my strategy would be proactive. To help them understand where to go and what resources are available, I would try to improve communication about the university's current offerings. Additionally, I would promote wellbeing services that acknowledge the unique experiences of international students. 

Another thing I would improve is peer support. International students of more experience can offer academic, cultural, and practical advice that institutional services can't always match.

Above all, I would provide easier access for students to give direct input to AUSA and key University stakeholders. As an active representative for the Master of Energy cohort and the first semester classes, I've learned that listening is the first step toward good representation. I want to do more than just advocate for overseas students. I want to ensure that their experiences are acknowledged, comprehended, and taken into consideration.

Question 4. The ISO is also key in putting together the 'Ubuntu' magazine, which shares international students' voices and stories. Do you have any ideas/vision about what you'd want Ubuntu to be like in 2027?

Mohammed: My vision for Ubuntu in 2027 is an inclusive, vibrant multimedia platform that celebrates the real, multi-faceted experiences of our global student body. Beyond written stories, I want to expand Ubuntu into digital formats—such as student spotlight podcasts, photo essays, and online feature series. We can highlight diverse cultural perspectives, share honest stories about overcoming culture shock, and provide practical tips for living in Auckland. It should be a creative space where international students feel truly seen, heard, and celebrated.

Sakshi: I would love Ubuntu to become a vibrant, inclusive platform that celebrates the diversity of international students at UoA. My vision is for it to highlight real stories like cultural journeys, personal challenges, academic achievements, and the unique perspectives international students bring to campus. I’d also like Ubuntu to include practical guidance, such as navigating university systems, wellbeing tips, and student‑led insights that help others feel less alone. A blend of storytelling, culture, creativity, and useful information can make Ubuntu a magazine that international students genuinely connect with and feel proud of.

Ehansa: I want Ubuntu to feel like a magazine that international students see themselves in, not just a magazine written about international students. I'd love it to become a platform for stories that might otherwise never be heard: the journey of a student arriving in New Zealand for the first time, the experiences of postgraduate students, the stories behind smaller cultural communities, international student achievements, creative work, food, traditions, challenges and even the funny everyday moments of living thousands of kilometres from home. I'd also like to make Ubuntu more interactive and student-driven, potentially incorporating student submissions, photography, artwork, cultural spotlights and QR-linked digital content. Most importantly, I want Ubuntu to celebrate the diversity of our community without reducing people to their origins. Every international student has a stroy. Ubuntu should make sure we get to hear them.

Jason: By 2027, I hope Ubuntu will truly represent the variety of international students at the University of Auckland and offer a forum where students feel appreciated for their experiences. By interacting with a greater range of international student organizations and groups, I would like to increase the diversity of viewpoints reflected. Ubuntu shouldn't give any indication of what an international student experience entails. We come from many nations, cultures, fields, and personal experiences.

Additionally, I hope Ubuntu helps to improve the campus community. On top of personal narratives and experiences, it shall showcase communities, cultural exchange, accomplishments, and bridge local and global communities. The fundamental idea, in my opinion, is representation via listening. Ubuntu should be a platform for us to speak for ourselves, not just a publication where people discuss about us.

When students open Ubuntu, I want them to see experiences that help them relate and connect with people from diverse cultures and stories from those of similar backgrounds.

Question 5. Why should students care about AUSA elections?

Mohammed: AUSA serves as the primary representative voice for students across the university. The executive team directly influences how student services are run, advocates for student welfare, and ensures student concerns are heard by university leadership. Voting in AUSA elections ensures that student leadership actively reflects our diverse community and fights for the support and resources we need.

Sakshi: I believe that AUSA elections decide who represents student voices for the entire year. The people elected advocate for student needs, influence decisions, and help shape the academic and wellbeing experience across the university. When students vote, they ensure their priorities and concerns are heard by people who genuinely understand their community. It’s one of the simplest ways to make sure student experiences translate into real action and meaningful change.

Ehansa: Because AUSA is not just an organization, it affects your everyday university experience. The elected people make decisions about student advocacy, support, events, funding, and the services students rely on. They represent students when the University makes decisions and, importantly, have the opportunity to turn student concerns into concrete action. For international students especially, voting is a chance to say: this is what our community needs this is what matters to us and this is who we trust to represent us. I also think elections are about accountability. Don't vote simply because someone's name is familiar or their poster looks good. Read what candidates actually want to do. Ask questions. Challenge them. Then vote for someone whose values and plans you believe in. Your vote might be small but collectively, it decides who gets a seat at the table.

Jason: AUSA representatives have an obligation to speak out on problems that directly impact students. Student politics and issues pertaining well-being, housing, financial strains, student services, academic assistance, and inclusivity are intertwined. Those elected will be responsible for informing the university on student concerns and keeping abreast of the issues. Representation is important, especially for us, since being present does not equate to being heard. Students require one who is open to hearing about our experiences, understanding the problems we face, and pushing for workable solutions. 

Additionally, I think elections give students a chance to choose who they desire. Do they want one who actively listens to them and incorporates their experiences into decision-making, or one who only speaks on their behalf? I want to be such a spokesperson. As a student representative, I have learned that listening is the first step toward successful advocacy. Students have the chance to elect representatives they trust to represent their interests in AUSA elections and I am sure they will decide well.

Question 6. If you win this election, you will be a part of the team that decides Craccum's budget for next year. Would you increase Craccum's funding in 2027 to at least $120k? (Yes/No). If you were in the executive this year, why was the budget decreased to the lowest it's ever been in recent years?

Mohammed: Yes. Independent student media like Craccum plays an essential role in keeping campus leadership accountable, amplifying diverse student perspectives, and maintaining an informed student body. As I was not a member of this year's executive team, I cannot speak to the internal rationale behind previous budget reductions. However, if elected, I am committed to supporting transparent, sustainable funding models that protect essential student media and advocating for a budget that ensures Craccum remains strong and fully operational in 2027.

Sakshi: Yes. Craccum is an important part of student expression and campus culture, and supporting student‑led media helps strengthen representation and community engagement. I was not part of the executive this year, so I cannot speak to the reasons behind the previous budget decisions.

Ehansa: I believe student media is an important part of student democracy. Craccum gives students a platform to tell stories, question decisions, share opinions and hold student institutions accountable. Whenever a new issue is released, I’ve seen students genuinely stop, pick it up and read it enthusiastically. In a world where we often assume physical media is becoming less important, I think Craccum proves that it still has a place. For some students, Craccum is a way to express themselves, share experiences and have their voices heard. For readers, it offers a more meaningful and engaging way to understand what is happening at university and in the wider world. That is especially important at a university as diverse as UoA. I wasn't part of the Executive when previous funding decisions were made, so I don't want to speculate about the reasoning behind them. However, I do think decisions affecting student media should involve transparency, consultation and student voice. If elected, I would support sustainable funding for Craccum while also expecting clear financial accountability and ensuring students have a meaningful say in its future. 

Jason: Indeed, I would be in favor of raising its funding to at least $120,000 while adhering to proper financial supervision. I believe that student media plays a significant part. Craccum gives students a platform to voice opinions, examine problems that impact the student body, and hold organizations responsible. Therefore, establishing such a publication requires adequate finance.

However, not being part of the current Executive meant I would not speculate as to why this year's budget was slashed. A candidate claiming assurance about a choice they did not participate in would, in my opinion, be reckless.  Before making that choice, I would want to know Craccum's operational needs, AUSA's general financial situation, the reasoning for the proposed reduction, and how it would affect the publication and plausible alternatives for adaptations.

Therefore, my stance for 2027 is clear: I would be in favor of bringing its funding back to at least $120,000, provided that accountability and sensible budgeting are maintained with pragmatic approaches.

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