Meet Manfred Mletsin
Manfred was studying a Bachelor of Accounting at Charles Darwin University when he won the award in 2020. He now owns multiple small businesses, including the accounting firm SAMAF, as well as a small goods and coffee shop in Nightcliff, Porkin. Manfred is on the executive board for Kindness Shake (as he has been, since it was created), and is the president of the Estonian-Australian Association of Australia. Since arriving in Australia as an international student, Manfred has given his time and energy into supporting the community around him.
Manfred says that “while awards make us feel good, these awards are not only an acknowledgment of the individual but those around them, who support and help international students”.
Manfred believes that applying for the award is a "great opportunity to be recognised, but also a chance for you to meet like-minded people". He also says that international students should “be true to yourself. Even if you don’t win, being nominated is a wonderful achievement. Take me for example, I was a finalist for 4 years in a row, until I won the award in the fourth year. Hard work and determination will pay off”.
Student stories
Abhishek - India
Charles Darwin University (CDU)
Darwin city seemed small but it is home to people with kind, warm hearts. I have always felt welcomed in this city.
Adele - Italy
Charles Darwin University (CDU)
Hi, I am Adele and I am an international student from Italy.
Adi - Fiji
Alana Kaye College
I came to Darwin in October 2018 from Fiji to visit my older sister who works and resides in Elcho Island.
Adria - Bangladesh
I grew up hearing wonderful stories about Australia, in particular, the Northern Territory (NT) from my father.
Akansh - India
Charles Darwin University (CDU)
Darwin is a perfect balance between city life and the outback life.