Celebrating Diversity: Christian Andrada's Perth Journey

My name is Christian Amador T. Andrada, but you can call me "Madz". I am pictured on the left in the image above. I'm from the Philippines, and I am a young at heart professional who has diverse experience across different industries. I am currently pursuing a Master of Accounting at KAPLAN Business School.

I chose to study in WA based on my sister's recommendation, who believed it would offer great prospects for my future. Luckily, my application was accepted, and I swiftly grew to appreciate Perth's tranquil surroundings and the multitude of opportunities available in Western Australia. 

Speaking of opportunities, my experience has been full of them. I started as an international student and now I am also one of the team leaders at Miss Maud's Cafe. I am also an international student ambassador for StudyPerth. 

When I first arrived in Perth, I didn't expect that it would be an epicentre for a diverse culture, and I think inclusion here is not really a problem because I don't feel the need to hide my identity as part of the LGBTQIA+ community. 

One thing that's tricky in Perth is identifying other people who are part of the LGBTQIA+ community. In the Philippines, it is really easy. I feel that this is brought by how culturally diverse Perth is, and that's a good thing, because for an international student like me, it is really adventurous and exciting to meet people who have the same interests as me, like RuPaul's Drag Race. 

There are some great resources available for LGBTQIA+ students and people here in Perth, one of them being M Clinic. M Clinic is the first and only sexual health clinic for the LGBTQIA+ community in Perth. It is part of the Western Australian AIDS Council's initiative that aims to provide sexual health services that are safe, discreet, and inclusive. These services include STI testing, outreach testing, vaccination, PrEP prescription, and health services for gender diverse people. 

My main advice for international students who are a part of the LGBTQIA+ community is to be yourself, and don't be afraid to show who you are. I really feel that Perth is so inclusive, and whenever I go to my school or my workplace it is not a problem for them - show them who you are and they will respect you for that.