IEAA Young Professionals (WA): Leaders' Journeys

Pro Vice-Chancellor International
Murdoch University

Kelly Smith completed a Bachelor of Arts degree at Curtin University in 1987. After further study in teaching English as a second language, he taught for 10 years in Japan and then at The University of Western Australia’s Centre for English Language Teaching. In 1999 he moved into a role in the administration of internationalization in the University’s International Centre. After completing an MBA at The University of Western Australia in 2000, he worked for a time in the private sector with Study Group, a leading global private provider of education services, before returning to The University of Western Australia initially as Associate Director and then as Director of the International Centre. In November 2015 he took up the position of inaugural Pro Vice-Chancellor (International) at La Trobe University. In 2018 he was additionally appointed as Director of La Trobe’s Confucius Institute. He has been at Murdoch University since January 2020 and is currently Pro Vice Chancellor International. External roles have included Chair of the Australian Universities International Directors Forum, Deputy Chair of Study Perth, Board member of the International Education Association of Australia and Steering Committee member for the 2019 Australian International Education Conference. He is currently the Chair of the Asia-Pacific Association for International Education 2024 Conference steering committee. He is a regular presenter at international education conferences in Australia, the USA, Asia and South America.

Regional Manager, International Relationships
TAFE International Western Australia (TIWA)

Originally from Malaysia, I first came to Perth as an international student. Along the way, I've had the incredible opportunity to work with esteem institutions such as Stanley College, Phoenix Academy, and most recently, TAFE International Western Australia. While my professional background primarily lies in graphic design, publication, and marketing, my passion for international student recruitment has become a driving force in my career. With over two decades of experience in the International Education sector, I've been fortunate to engage with individuals across various organisational levels and diverse cultural backgrounds. Beyond the boardrooms and classrooms, I've learned most from motherhood. Balancing the demands of nurturing my children with the exhilarating challenges of my career has not only enriched my personal journey but has also honed my professional edge, propelling me to new heights of growth within my field.

Faculty Business Analyst
Curtin University

Steven is currently Business Analyst for the Faculty of Science and Engineering at Curtin University. Prior to working at Curtin, Steven was the Business Manager at StudyPerth for more than two years. This role required him to manage the governance of StudyPerth and lead the Sector Engagement Team. The Sector Engagement Team is responsible for supporting the WA international education sector so that WA is positioned as a destination of choice for international education. The team manages various initiatives that support advocacy, communication, and collaboration. This includes the innovation fund program, advisory/focus groups, research programs, and membership services. Having been the chair of other Young Professional bodies, Steven is passionate about supporting future leaders through the engagement and empowerment of Young Professionals.