HOW TO VOTE

Hello Earth peoples!

My name is D’leene Douglas (She/Her), and I’m a 3rd-year Psychology student running for Guild Councillor with Illuminate. I am excited to represent all international students at Curtin and be the voice for us all!

As both a Psychology and international student, I understand first-hand the challenges of uprooting and starting life in a whole new country – whether financial, emotional or social.

During my studies here, I’ve noticed the lack of financial support for us, international students, with barely any scholarship opportunities available. International students pay double the tuition fees of domestic students, with yearly increments that continue to climb. For many of us coming from countries with weaker currency exchange rates, this burden is multiplied further. Despite excelling academically and being heavily involved in extracurricular activities, I was denied an extension of my scholarship solely because of my “international” status. When I begged for further support, the only option offered was financial instalments — a temporary fix that does not create equity or reward for hard work.

Meanwhile, domestic students benefit from numerous scholarships (both academically AND extracurricular), deferred fee payment options, and even up to 40% of government deductions on their university debt after graduation!

This issue is not just about money, it’s about INCLUSIVITY. Curtin prides itself on diversity, but inclusivity is more than showcasing multiculturalism on posters. It means ensuring international students are given the SAME OPPORTUNITIES to succeed as domestic students.

Do you think it’s fair that international students must work twice as hard just to start at the same line in the race of life as domestic students?

Shouldn’t higher education institutions ensure a level playing field for ALL students?

And when the Vice Chancellor takes home over $1Million in salary each year, with annual increments, while students are struggling with tuition and daily expenses, it raises the question: Whose future is truly being invested in?

Beyond financial reform, I want to strengthen international student’s emotional and social support systems. University should not only be a place of study but also one of belonging and connection. I plan to work alongside with the VP of Activities to create more cultural events and initiatives, where students can celebrate their heritage, share cultural knowledge, and feel a piece of home while being away from home. Making Curtin truly inclusive for all.

As a former member of the Student Union and Student Welfare Coordinator in Malaysia, and current Curtin Volunteers! Leader, I believe the skills and community focus that I have acquired over the years will be transferrable as a Guild Councillor, helping me turn this vision into a reality.

Real inclusivity isn’t just about where we are from.

Real inclusivity means equitable opportunities to all.

Real inclusivity means building a Curtin where every student can thrive, not just survive.

If you believe in equity, inclusivity, and meaningful change, then:

Vote [1] D’leene Douglas for Guild Councillor !! ^0^//
Vote [1] Dylan Storer for President!
Vote [1] Illuminate!