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‘I belong here’: Student’s intercontinental dream becomes advocacy mission

June 2025 edition
Amina Salha

Amina Salha left her hometown for the first time to further her education in the NT – now she’s a Charles Darwin University (CDU) ambassador hoping to inspire other young people to similarly step out of their comfort zones.

Hailing from Hyderabad, India, Amina said she hopes to use her new role to become a voice for the University.

“It’s about representing the University with pride, helping others feel welcome, and being someone people can approach with questions and concerns,” she said.

“First impressions matter – a friendly face, a helpful answer, or a shared experience can make a huge difference for someone deciding where to study. 

“I’d love to be that person who makes CDU feel more real, more exciting, and more like home for others — just like it became for me.”

Amina says she has fallen in love with Darwin’s calm, tropical environment, so she also took on an ambassadorship for Study NT.

“I’m somebody who’s really shy and an introvert – I loved that every day was so different at home because it’s so crowded, but it feels like I belong here,” she said.

“I’m now involved in community work and volunteer programs, people recognise me and say hello, and I love that about this place.”

Amina moved to the Top End to study a Bachelor of Social Work at Charles Darwin University (CDU) and looks forward to helping the community she has grown to love after she graduates. 

In her third year of studying, she’s ready to pick up a career in advocacy.

Her placement with the Department of Education and Training has given her an opportunity to learn the important behind-the-scenes work that goes into ensuring NT students get the most out of their schooling.

“These opportunities aren’t just titles, they’re experiences where I get to grow as a leader, connect with people from all walks of life, and learn what it really means to serve a community,” she said. 

“Whether it’s supporting students through CDU and Study NT, I want to make a genuine impact.

“I see these roles as ‘baby steps’ toward something bigger – gaining the leadership, empathy, and real-world experience I’ll need to one day sit at that table and speak up for those who can’t.”

Current students can apply to be a part of the CDU Ambassador program here

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