Emma Sampson, Harsh Nathani, Sarah Myatt

Studying at the Danish School of Media and Journalism, researching the best ways to unlock employment opportunities in urban India, and attending masterclasses on multilateral diplomacy and disaster resilience, are the wide-ranging ways the recipients of the Council Prize for 2025 will make use of their financial support. 

Emma Sampson (2^nd year Journalism) has been accepted into Study Abroad at the Danish School of Media and Journalism, specialising in video journalism and foreign reporting.

Currently working three jobs to save for her overseas studies in January, the $4,000 prize will pay for flights and accommodation and make a substantial difference to Emma’s plans.

“I am still pinching myself. Immersing myself in a new environment will cultivate adaptability, enhance my ability to communicate across cultural boundaries, and offer invaluable hands-on experiences in observing and reporting on global issues. This exposure will not only expand my worldview but also set the foundation for my future career as an international reporter or foreign correspondent – my ultimate dream job. I am incredibly grateful, as this support will make a tremendous difference in my exchange experience.”

Harsh Nathani (Master of Economics) will explore the economic and welfare impacts of the Night-Time Economy (NTE) as a policy tool to address urban unemployment in India. The NTE, by extending business operations to non-traditional hours, creates employment opportunities in sectors such as retail, hospitality, and entertainment, which are crucial for economic development in urban areas. Despite its growing importance globally, the NTE remains an under-explored area in India, particularly in the context of unemployment. He plans to use the $4,000 prize to help pay for the acquisition of databases through which he can analyse and present the results for publication.

“Winning the Queen’s College Council Prize is a pivotal moment for my research and personal journey. The funds will allow me to acquire critical datasets, which are currently beyond my financial reach. With them, I can refine my analysis, draw deeper insights, and present evidence that is both robust and actionable. Ultimately, this prize represents a chance to make a tangible difference – to move from ideas to action and contribute to solving a problem that affects so many. For that opportunity, I am profoundly grateful.” 

Sarah Myatt (2^nd year Arts, focussed on economics/politics and international studies)

Sarah was selected to attend the 2024 AIIA Young Professionals Study Tour to Canberra. The tour was for a select group of students and young professionals to be able to explore the world of diplomacy. It included full access to the AIIA National Conference and masterclasses with senior academics, industry leaders and diplomats, visits to embassies and government departments. The $2000 prize has paid for the Study Tours, travel and accommodation.

“It has been an absolute pleasure to attend the Study Tour, and National Conference. Highlights of the conference were masterclasses on multilateral diplomacy and disaster resilience, and insightful panel discussions about Australia’s important role in Asia and the Pacific. As part of the Study Tour, we visited fantastic institutions including the embassies of Spain and Latvia, ANU’s National Security College, the Parliamentary Press Gallery, DFAT, and CyberCX. I am proud to have been awarded the Council Prize to support my attendance. Attending the study tour has been an invaluable opportunity to enrich my professional development and foster my passion for international relations.”

Established by Queen’s College Council in 2022, the prestigious Queen’s College Council Prize is awarded annually, making it possible for student/s to gain support. It is to enable an undergraduate to travel overseas for a Study Abroad programme or, in the case of a graduate to attend a conference or conduct research.

The intention of the Prize is to encourage the academic ambitions and prospects of young students, both undergraduate and graduate to experience new cultures, develop valuable skills and prepare for a global future.