Two Curtin University students are gearing up to make their mark on the world stage after being awarded highly regarded Global Voices scholarships.
Oliver Price and Ayesha Ibrahim will head overseas to tackle critical global issues, attending international summits in Switzerland and the United States, focusing on artificial intelligence and women’s rights.
Global Voices, an Australian not-for-profit, gives future leaders the chance to gain hands-on experience in policymaking, diplomacy, and international relations at globally recognised events.
Curtin University vice-chancellor professor Harlene Hayne applauded the students’ success. “I congratulate Oliver and Ayesha for their commitment to addressing such important topics as ethical AI use and women’s rights,” she said. “I have no doubt they will make significant contributions at their respective events and contribute to the ongoing conversations about these important subjects.”
Ethical AI in the spotlight
Price, who’s in his fourth year studying a Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of Arts (International Relations), will head to Geneva in July for the AI for Good Summit 2025. As a Global Voices AI for Good Global Summit Scholarship recipient, he will bring a humanitarian perspective to the table.
Currently working in human rights law, Price helps culturally and linguistically diverse clients navigate Australia’s immigration system.
“AI presents both opportunities and challenges,” he said. “I’m especially excited to participate in discussions on AI’s influence on information and misinformation with global experts and stakeholders.
“Ultimately, I hope to use this opportunity to contribute to the responsible and ethical development of AI, ensuring these technologies benefit all.”
Amplifying women’s voices
Ibrahim, who’s studying a Master of International Relations and National Security, will travel to New York in March for the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women. She was awarded the Global Voices Commission on the Status of Women Scholarship in recognition of her dedication to advocating for women’s rights.
“The Commission on the Status of Women delegation’s agenda resonates deeply with me because it provides a platform to amplify the voices of women whose struggles are often overlooked in policy and legislation,” she said.
Ibrahim is focused on issues like forced marriage, female genital mutilation, and coercive control in faith-based communities, which disproportionately affect women from minority and migrant backgrounds.
“I am driven to bridge this gap and the Global Voices scholarship has provided me with a chance to deepen my expertise, apply my international experience locally and engage in meaningful advocacy that reflects the complexities of minority women’s experiences,” she said.