CDU Student Council

Name: Shishtata Bhandari

Course: Bachelor of Information Technology

As a student deeply passionate about personal and professional growth, I firmly believe that when students are given the right opportunities, they become empowered and resilient. My vision for CDU is to create a space where students feel encouraged to voice their ideas, take risks, and learn through experiences, even mistakes. University is the ideal environment for personal development, with the support of a connected community that helps students grow.  As the Vice President of the CDU IoT Club, I’ve seen how eager students are to grow professionally but often struggle with limited support. I believe students need guidance from both faculty and peers who have recently faced similar challenges. This is why I advocate for establishing a student growth group where individuals can come together weekly—regardless of their goals, whether academic, physical, or mental health—and hold each other accountable. This initiative would foster a sense of belonging and support within our already close-knit community.  Additionally, I aim to collaborate with all student groups to organize programs that enhance professional portfolios while encouraging cross-group collaboration. With my leadership experience, I am committed to ensuring that every student’s voice is heard, and that programs are effective, time-efficient, and resource-friendly. My goal is to create a connected, empowered, and supportive student community at CDU.

Name: Gilbertofer Tanoto

Course: Bachelor of Information Technology

University life should be more than just classes—it should be about building connections, feeling supported, and having opportunities to grow. As the Vice President of the CDU Student Council, my goal is simple: to create better connectivity and inclusivity for all students and I’m here to advocate for student needs.

I’m passionate about music, photography, technology, student engagement, and advocacy. Whether I’m capturing moments through a camera, exploring new tech, or organizing initiatives that amplify student voices, I believe everyone deserves to feel like they belong at CDU. Beyond leadership, I also work as a tutor, primarily supporting First Nations students and helping them navigate their studies with confidence. I’ve also had the privilege of being an emcee, where I’ve learned how to engage and inspire audiences. I'm also a student support officer, helping new and current students with their university life.

As Vice President, I want to ensure that every student, no matter their background, feels included, connected, and empowered. Whether it’s through events, advocacy, or direct support, I’m committed to making CDU a place where students can thrive, have fun, and create lasting memories. Let’s build a stronger, more connected CDU together!

Name: Safal Sapkota

Course: Bachelor of Engineering Science

I was born in a beautiful and vibrant district known as Chitwan in a heavenly country like Nepal. I completed my schooling in Chitwan. During my school days, I was good at my studies. I always wanted to be the leader of a team, or a group of members but didn't get any opportunities during my school time. Now at university I have an opportunity to express my leadership so, I will like to use it at it's best. I have been through a lot of hurdles in my life. As a student, I have seen the tears of success and the broken heart of the failure. I think I would be one of the best way to raise the voice of the students; whose voice is never heard because of shyness of the student or failure of the concerned authority. If I get a chance, I will make an inclusive group of students and discuss with them about their experience as a student in CDU via real table talk or online seminars. I will make chunks of groups of students coming from different ethnicity, language and culture. It will help me to know specifically what problems are they facing on ground level and raise the voice as a whole. This will help the students of CDU to express their unheard voice and will be an opportunity to CDU to be its best. Thanking you and hoping for the best study experience in CDU. 

Name: Katherine Lockhart

Course: Bachelor of Business

Hello, I’m Katherine Lockhart and I am a first-year undergraduate student.  Since finishing high school I’ve worked retail, been a bus driver during a brief stint in Perth and currently work in aviation as a store person in the logistics department. In this role I handle highly sensitive aircraft parts, arrange dangerous goods to be shipped by air and road, and monitor stock levels to name a few.  I’m known as a go getter and problem solver, willing to go the extra mile to make sure that people have the resources and knowledge to perform their roles. Weather it’s training in applications, finding that obscure reference or having a chat with the managers to discuss sourcing a new tool.  I love making sure that people have a voice and are being heard, and I enjoy ensuring that everyone is being treated equally.  I wish to use my experiences to the benefit of students at CDU and continue to develop my leadership skills and to represent issues that matter to my fellow students. I want to be an advocate for CDU students during board and committee meeting, contribute to decisions that impact students and support community development within CDU and make it a safe and fulfilling community for students.

Name: Surendra Phuyal

Course: Bachelor of Information Technology

As an international student at CDU, I want to ensure that every undergraduate student's voice is heard in all matters. Having personally faced the challenges in Darwin, I understand that public transport and safety concerns, such as robbery, are critical issues that must be addressed to make our campus and community safer. Additionally, with stricter student visa regulations since 2023, the number of international students is declining, and many struggle to secure their first jobs, leading to mental fatigue and, in some cases, relocation to other states. The university can play a vital role in helping students find employment opportunities and easing their transition into the workplace

Name: Ayush Dutta

Course: Master of Data Science

I am Ayush Dutta, a Master of Data Science student at Charles Darwin University. I am driven by a deep interest in data-driven solutions, which has shaped my academic journey and professional aspirations. My passion for problem-solving, combined with a solid technical foundation in data science, allows me to approach challenges with creativity and precision.  What inspired me to apply for the CDU student council is my desire to contribute to the well-being of my fellow students by creating an inclusive, supportive environment. I believe in the power of collaboration and community, and I aim to bring fresh perspectives to the council that reflect the needs of both local and international students. I plan to advocate for initiatives that promote mental health, academic integrity, and technological advancements to enhance student life.  With experience in leadership through volunteering and team projects, I am confident that I can contribute meaningfully to the council's mission. My goal is to ensure that every student's voice is heard and that we work together to create a thriving campus culture.

Name: Deepisha Thakuri

Course: Bachelor of Information Technology

I am an international student studying Bachelor of Information Technology at CDU Casuarina Campus. Being a sports-spirited person, I love to be a part of a community where I can explore myself. I am a good learner and quickly adaptive to the environment. I believe that being a member of CDUSC will allow me to strengthen my skills and knowledge, where I can also contribute effortlessly. With a focus on continuous improvement and a passion, I am excited to take on new challenges and develop further both personally and professionally. 

Name: Anthea Page

Course: Bachelor of Environmental Science

I am studying a Bachelor of Environmental Science with an Indigenous knowledge focus. I am passionate about strengthening student voice, cultural capability and community connection across CDU. Through my role on the Student Council I hope to support First Nations students, improve communication between students and the University and contribute to a more inclusive and responsive campus environment.

Name: Subash Adhikari

Course: Master of Engineering 

I am excited to announce my nomination for the CDU Student Council. My inspiration to apply for this role stems from a deep desire to contribute to the enhancement of the student experience, especially for those like myself, whose courses are primarily based on external modes of study. While this limits my ability to be present on campus, it also provides me with a unique perspective on the challenges faced by remote learners.  My primary goal is to foster a more inclusive and supportive environment for both on-campus and external students. I plan to work on initiatives that promote mental health awareness, academic support, and stronger engagement for remote learners through improved online resources and virtual events. Additionally, I would advocate for better communication channels between external students and university administration, ensuring their concerns are heard and addressed.  Despite the physical distance, I am confident that my leadership skills and passion for community building will enable me to serve effectively. By joining the Student Council, I aim to bridge the gap between external and on-campus students, ensuring CDU remains a place where everyone feels connected and supported.  I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to positive change and make a difference for all CDU students.

Name: Hadi Ur Rahman Mohammed

Course: Master of Information Technology (Artificial Intelligence)

I am currently studying a Master of Information Technology (Artificial Intelligence) at CDU. As part of the Student Council, I aim to strengthen student engagement, support multicultural inclusion and contribute to initiatives that enhance student wellbeing and community connection. I look forward to representing student voices and helping create a more vibrant and supportive university experience

Name: Eva Susanto

Course: Bachelor of Clinical Sciences

I am currently studying the Bachelor of Clinical Sciences, the first degree of the Northern Territory Medical Program (NTMP), run by CDU and Flinders University. I have always been passionate about giving back to the community and providing a voice for those who are not heard. To incorporate this into my university life, I joined the CDU Student Council, with a goal of ensuring that everyone at CDU feels safe and welcome at university. I am looking forward to collaborating with my fellow council members to foster an empowering and engaging environment at CDU.

Name: Ahnad As Sabor Siam

Course: Bachelor of Information Technology

Hey, I’m Ahnad As Sabor Siam, a third-year IT student at Charles Darwin University. I joined the Student Council to bring energy and connection that makes uni life more than just deadlines and assignments. Too often, students focus solely on completing assignments, which can lead to feelings of isolation and missed opportunities for connection. I want CDU to be a space where students genuinely enjoy being here, meet new people, share ideas, and make memories. My goal is to help create that positive, inclusive vibe where everyone feels like they belong, both inside and outside the classroom.

Name: Iris Nga Man Wong

Course: Bachelor of Laws

Hi, I’m Iris Wong, a CDU Law student who believes in the power of connection, where people from different backgrounds, experiences, and personalities come together to create something greater. Through the Student Council, I hope to champion transparency and accountability, enrich campus life and student support, and promote diversity, inclusion, and equality. My vision is to nurture a community where every student feels valued, heard, and empowered to grow — a CDU where we all belong, thrive, and shine together

Name: Harsh Rastogi

Course: Master of Data Science

I am pursuing a Master of Data Science at CDU and am committed to fostering inclusive. I am passionate about improving everyday student life, supporting students struggling with homesickness, anxiety or loneliness, and organizing events and spaces where it’s easier to make friends and feel at home. By joining the Student Council, I hope to represent diverse student voices, strengthen our university community, and ensure every student feels heard, supported, and empowered at CDU.

Name: Kawsar Ahmed

Course: Bachelor of Engineering Honours

I am Kawsar Ahmed, studying a Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) in Electrical and Electronics Engineering at Charles Darwin University. As a member of the CDU Student Council, I aim to represent student voices with fairness, transparency and genuine commitment. My focus is on strengthening student engagement, improving communication between students and the university, and helping create a more inclusive, supportive and vibrant campus environment. I hope to contribute to initiatives that enhance student wellbeing, community connection and involvement across all groups. I am dedicated, approachable and motivated to ensure every student feels heard, valued and confident in their university experience.