This article was written by La Trobe international student, Tharidhu Peries in collaboration with La Trobe University.
As an international student from Sri Lanka pursuing a Bachelor of Global of Studies majoring in International Relations and Sustainability, I consider myself very fortunate to be part of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Australia Special Summit as a Blue Security Intern.
Being part of the Blue Economy Track my work was focused on notetaking on various concerns and suggestions brought by academics, scholars, policymakers and government representatives. We mainly focused on combatting illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing, increasing transparency within maritime zones, maximising the effectiveness of existing maritime treaties and transforming the fisheries cooperation within Southeast Asia. As a young person that was always quite passionate about the Blue Economy this was a first-hand experience for me being able to work and contribute to the development of a sustainable Blue Economy between Australia and Southeast Asia.
“Being a student at La Trobe has given me the true definition of education, education beyond the classroom, preparing me for the workforce and allowing me to go out there and live the true experiences of my career before joining the workforce.”
Being able to listen to speeches from Senator Wong, the Australian Minister for Foreign Affairs, and Enrique Manalo, Secretary of Foreign Affairs, was quite remarkable considering what both leaders had to say about Australia’s relationship with the ASEAN on Maritime Cooperation.
Participating in the Maritime Summit’s 1.5 track dialogue was another highlight of my internship, affording me the privilege of engaging in behind-the-scenes discussions and debates among ASEAN country leaders on crucial and contentious topics. This exposure was enriching both personally and professionally.
Beyond these experiences, my internship also presented me with the chance to publish my own Op-ed article, currently in progress, focusing on Southeast Asia’s Blue Economy and Australia’s role as a steward.
Reflecting on my time at the Summit fills me with a sense of pride and accomplishment, underscoring the importance of the work I was involved in. I am particularly grateful to La Trobe University, as well as to individuals such as Kate Clayton and Rei Allen Fortes, whose support and encouragement made this opportunity possible.
Coming to La Trobe was undoubtedly the best decision I’ve made to study my undergraduate degree considering what the University has to offer for students and especially considering opportunities for international students like us. I think being a student at La Trobe has given me the true definition of education, education beyond the classroom which is preparing me for the workforce and allowing me to go out there and live the true experiences of my career even before joining the workforce.
I am honoured to have been able to contribute and be part of a momentous occasion of what would one day be Australia’s policies with the ASEAN.