International student recognised for his contribution to the Illawarra community

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A student from the University of Wollongong has become a finalist in the NSW International Student Awards in recognition for his contribution to the Illawarra community.

Mr Henness Wong studies a Doctor of Medicine from the University of Wollongong. He was considered for the commendation due to his contribution during his tenure as President and Yoga teacher at the UOW Yoga and Meditation club. This had already won him the title of the Club Person of the Year in 2016.

Originally from Hong Kong, Henness has become a fixture in the Wollongong Community acting as a student leader with UOW Accommodation Services and as the Postgraduate Student Representative on the UOW Environmental Advisory Committee.

The other finalist is the UOW and Bomaderry High School Asia Immersion Program. The Immersion Program is made up of a diverse group of students from different Asian countries such as Indonesia, China, Malaysia, Japan and Thailand. The aim of the program is to foster intercultural respect, understanding and communication between regional Australian students and students from across Asia.

Every year, the students from Asia visit schools across regional NSW including Bomaderry High School, Bomaderry Public School, Kangaroo Valley Public School, Cambewarra Public School, Berry Public School and Shoalhaven Heads Public School.

The UOW’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Professor Chicharo said that these two nominations were the testament to the quality of community engagement of the UOW’s student body.

“I want to congratulate Mr Henness Wong and the Bomaderry High School Immersion Program team for their outstanding contribution to the Illawarra community- they are a great example of our international students making a remarkable impact.”