Cansu COL is an education leader, project manager, and inclusion specialist with over 10 years of experience across the vocational and higher education sectors in Australia. Her work spans academic operations, compliance, education design, and student experience, with a strong focus on equity, wellbeing, and culturally responsive practice.

Cansu has held senior roles including Academic Manager and education consultant, leading large-scale programs aligned with ESOS, National Code, and regulatory frameworks. She is the Founder of Education Principles, delivering consultancy in learner experience, digital education design, and professional development ecosystems.

A passionate advocate for international students and diverse communities, Cansu brings both professional and lived experience to her leadership. She actively contributes to sector advancement through her roles with ISANA, the Forcibly Displaced People’s Network (FDPN), and community-based initiatives supporting migrant and LGBTIQ+ communities ( Anatolian Queers).

As VIC | TAS Branch President, Cansu is committed to strengthening cross-sector collaboration, advancing gender-based violence prevention and policy implementation, and enhancing professional practice across the international education sector. She is particularly focused on building inclusive, trauma-informed systems that improve student safety, belonging, and success.

Ruby Lee brings over 15 years of invaluable experience in the higher education sector, with a strong emphasis on supporting international students. Her expertise spans partnership management, marketing, communications, and alumni engagement.

Currently serving as the Partnerships and Engagement Manager at the Faculty of Science, Engineering, and Built Environment, Deakin University since 2021, Ruby plays a pivotal role in fostering global connections and enhancing the experience of international students. She oversees four key portfolios, including international collaborations, student engagement and transition initiatives, work-integrated learning programs, and school outreach endeavours.

Ruby is deeply committed to nurturing the growth of future leaders from diverse cultural backgrounds. She prioritises building enduring institutional partnerships, ensuring positive student experiences, and enhancing graduate employability, all while championing the unique needs and challenges faced by international students in their academic journey.