Awards & Scholarships

The ISANA NZ Award recognises an individual programme that invests in partnership and training to deliver a rich international learner experience and champion global citizenship among all students. This is a programme/department/office that has partnered with the International Education Association (ISANA NZ) to develop an innovative initiative that enhances the cross-border learner experience.

The winner receives one year of free institutional ISANA NZ membership and an ISANA NZ trophy. They will be recognised in an ISANA NZ newsletter and on social media.

An integral part of ISANA NZ’s mahi is partnering with individual providers and programmes to enhance global citizenship learning among all students. 

The ISANA NZ Professional Leadership Award recognises an individual who has exemplified leadership through their professional practice, integrity and outstanding commitment to learner-centred practice in the international education sector. 

The recipient is nominated by their programme. They are identified as a highly valued, integral member of the team who shows a strong commitment to enhancing the cross-border learner experience and going the extra mile in any of the following domains:

• Student exchange/study abroad
• Learning and teaching
• Homestay/accommodation
• Programme management
• TNE
• Admissions
• Student advising

The winner receives one year of free individual ISANA NZ membership and a Professional Leadership Award trophy.. They will be recognised in an ISANA NZ newsletter and on social media.

The Tracey Evans Scholarship is awarded annually to an individual working in New Zealand’s schools sector. The successful candidate demonstrates an exemplary commitment to the integration and wellbeing of international learners. 

This scholarship was established in 2013 in recognition of Tracy Evans’ contribution to ISANA NZ. Tracy made a significant contribution to ISANA NZ, including the role of School Sector Representative on the ISANA NZ board. Tracy was on the staff of Macleans College in Auckland at the time of her passing away. 

The winner of the Tracy Evans Scholarship will receive one year of free individual ISANA NZ membership and a Tracy Evans Scholarship trophy. They will be recognised in an ISANA NZ newsletter and on social media.

It was a great pleasure to present the 2025 ISANA NZ Awards at the forum. Warm congratulations to the following recipients:

2025 ISANA NZ Pioneer Partners Award:

• Student Ambassadors as Intercultural Learners (SAIL): UC Accommodation Services, Middleton Grange School (International College)
• Critical Incident Strategy & Prevention (CRISP): Future Skills,  Pakūranga College (International Department)

The award recognises investment in a strategic partnership that delivers a rich international learner experience and champions global citizenship among all students.

2025 Professional Leadership Award:

• Joint recipients Sahar Jamal (University of Canterbury Careers) and Ada Chen (Toi Ohomai Institute of Technology).

Ada's leadership in international education is grounded in extensive international student services management, empathy and professionalism. She is a tireless advocate for the sector, a champion for investing in the learner experience and a leader in strengthening cross-border partnerships. Ada is a current PhD candidate, reflecting her commitment to research-led practice. Her professionalism sets the standard for prioritising international student wellbeing and success.

Sahar’s resourcefulness and creativity in supporting international student employability are impressive. This Award celebrates the professionalism she brings to her Careers role. Tailored careers support is integral to international education sustainability, and Sahra’s leadership and innovation enhance UC's reputation as a learner-centred host institution.