WA's International Student of the Year: How Thais is making a difference

Hi, my name is Thais Carrascoza! I am originally from Brazil, where I graduated with a Business degree and completed a post-grad degree in Finance. I worked for Brazil's largest construction company for many years before I decided to invest in my international education journey. 

I chose Perth because of its welcoming environment for international students, and the high quality of life it offers - the perfect balance between nature, culture, and education.

It's a city that feels both vibrant and peaceful, providing an ideal environment to raise a young family while pursuing education and professional endeavours. 

After moving to Australia with my husband, I took time to focus on our family and later pursued my passion in community services. In 2024, I graduated with a Diploma of Community Services and found my true calling: helping individuals and communities. I am now studying a Master's degree in Community Development at Murdoch University. 

One of the highlights of my studies was my work placement at the City of Cockburn's Community Development Cultural Diversity Department. I had the chance to be deeply involved in real community development projects, consultation and reference groups, Youth and Women's Workshops, Expos, and community events such as Harmony Week and Coogee Live. 

These experiences solidified my passion for community services and gave me the skills and confidence to start my own not-for-profit organisation, and since graduating, I have dedicated myself to empowering the community and promoting cultural diversity. I founded the Brazilian Community Association, a not-for-profit organisation that supports and celebrates multiculturalism in Australia. 

One of my proudest moments of my journey so far was winning the 2024 WA Training Award for 'International Student of the Year'.

This award recognised my hard work, resilience, and commitment to community services and development. This year, I was honoured to be invited to join the judging panel for the WA Training Awards, and I am excited to help select the next successful International Student of the Year. 

I was also selected to participate in a six-month program known as the Community Innovators, Volunteers, and Leaders (CIVAL) Project. This program supports multicultural leaders by enhancing their knowledge, building leadership capacity, and empowering them to create positive change within their communities. 

Additionally, I have joined the CALD Reference Group, where we advocate for the needs of individuals and families from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, with a particular focus on promoting safety, inclusion, and support services for vulnerable groups such as victims of domestic violence. 

My advice to future Perth international students is to be open to new experiences and actively engage with the community around you.

Perth offers incredible opportunities for personal and professional development, but it's important to step out of your comfort zone, participate in events, network, and make the most of the support services available. 

Trust your journey, even when it feels uncertain. Every experience, even the challenges, will prepare you for your next step. Persistence, resilience, and passion for making a difference will open doors you never imagined.