Winners were officially recognised at the Mayoral Welcome Event at Ngā Hau e Whā National Marae on Thursday, 7 August 2025. The Awards are proudly supported by Christchurch Educated, ChristchurchNZ, Christchurch City Council, and the University of Canterbury.
Study
7 August 2025
International student award winners
Ōtautahi Christchurch is proud to honour the achievements and contributions of its international student community with the announcement of the 2025 Waitaha Canterbury International Student Award winners.
The awards recognise 7 outstanding individuals
This year’s awards recognise seven outstanding individuals whose leadership, cultural contributions, and service to their communities have enriched the region socially, culturally, and economically. With 73 nominations, the calibre of candidates reflects the breadth of talent and heart among the international student population in Waitaha Canterbury.
International students not only bring global perspectives to the classroom but also play a vital role in shaping vibrant communities and driving regional growth. Their economic contribution is significant, with international education adding $3.6 billion to New Zealand’s economy in 2024.
“The knowledge, culture and perspectives international students bring adds so much to the vibrancy of our city so it’s fantastic to see them celebrated for their achievements,”Christchurch Mayor - Phil Mauger
“More and more students are choosing to make Christchurch their home away from home because of our world-class education institutes, welcoming community, affordable living and all our big backyard has to offer.”
The 2025 award winners are:
Supreme Award: Mayor's International Student of the Year
Viet Kien Ngo (University of Canterbury)
Originally from Vietnam, Kien has been named the 2025 International Student of the Year. Beginning his journey in Aotearoa at Shirley Boys’ High in 2020, Kien has become a highly respected leader and intercultural ambassador. With 14 separate nominations spanning both school and university sectors, his impact has transcended categories, embodying excellence in leadership, cultural exchange, and community service.
Community Engagement Award – University Sector
Sanduni Chamika Munasinghe (Lincoln University)
Arriving from Sri Lanka in August 2024, Sanduni is a PhD candidate recognised for her voluntary mentoring, student support work, and advocacy. Her strength, compassion, and leadership uplift others while navigating the challenges of international study with grace.
Special Mentions:
- Beshy Mathew (University of Canterbury)
- Di Guan (University of Canterbury)
Community Engagement Award – School Sector
Emily (Shanshan) Du (Villa Maria College)
Emily has devoted five years to uplifting her peers, leading initiatives, and volunteering across the city. Her long-term commitment and compassion truly reflect the spirit of community service.
Cultural Ambassador Award – University Sector
Viet Kien Ngo (University of Canterbury)
In addition to the Supreme Award, Kien was also recognised for his standout cultural leadership. Fluent in multiple languages and deeply committed to diversity, he fosters genuine intercultural understanding within and beyond the university.
Special Mention:
- James Yeon (Lincoln University)
Cultural Ambassador Award – School Sector
Haruto Fujikawa (Middleton Grange School)
Since arriving from Japan in 2023, Haruto has become a cultural bridge-builder, leading student events and championing diversity with heart and creativity.
Cultural Ambassador Award – ELS/PTE/ITP Sector
Anne Viyana Keshavi Cooray (Ara Institute of Canterbury)
Anne has promoted cultural understanding through performances, events, and social media – celebrating Sri Lankan heritage while embracing Kiwi life.
Leader and Mentor Award – University Sector
Ruowei (Winnie) Chen (University of Canterbury)
Winnie is a mentor and changemaker who has created inclusive spaces for international students through advocacy, empathy, and leadership.
Special Mention:
- Sultan Ahmed (University of Canterbury)
Leader and Mentor Award – School Sector
Isabella (Bella) O'Connor (St Margaret’s College)
Bella is a compassionate and driven leader whose contributions span environmental action, academic mentoring, and refugee tutoring.
Special Mentions:
- Sione Manu Telefoni (Christchurch Boys’ High School)
- Hanchi Chen (Ilam School – Age 10)
A sector growing strength
The Awards arrive at a time of renewed growth for international education. According to recent Education New Zealand statistics:
- International student enrolments grew 21% between 2023 and 2024 nationally.
- Canterbury saw an 11% increase, reaching 8,320 international enrolments in 2024.
- Canterbury ranks as the second-largest international education hub in New Zealand, after Auckland.
“As a city, Christchurch embraces and warmly welcomes the diversity international students bring,” says Stefi Porter, Regional Manager International Education at ChristchurchNZ.
“As a globally connected city and home to a tight-knit community, international students can create a home away from home and enjoy a life outside of study, all while gaining a world-class education.”
The government recently launched an international education growth strategy aiming to double the sector’s economic impact to $7.2 billion by 2034.
“As the international student community continues to thrive in Canterbury, we celebrate their resilience, leadership, and cultural richness. We also recognise that their stories shape the future of Ōtautahi Christchurch and Aotearoa New Zealand”.Stefi Porter - Regional Manager International Education, ChristchurchNZ
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