Mosaic: The Art of Belonging

Alexis is a Marketing Coordinator at Atlas Medicorp and a recent Master of Business

graduate from Monash University. Since moving to Australia as an international student in

2023, she has built a reputation as a skilled communicator and community builder, leading to

opportunities as a panellist, keynote speaker, and moderator.

Driven by a passion for women's empowerment and meaningful connection, Alexis founded a

community that brings together women from diverse backgrounds to expand their networks,

grow their careers, and access new opportunities. With a natural ability to engage audiences

and foster authentic conversations, she is passionate about creating spaces where people feel

heard, inspired, and empowered to take action. When she's not working, you'll likely find her

enjoying nature, exploring new places, or searching for Melbourne's next great food spot.

DescriPurvang Dave is a TEDx Speaker, currently a Project Delivery Lead with HEX, and DEI champion operating at the intersection of technology, people, and community. Originally from India and now based in Melbourne, he has spent 7 years building programs, experiences, and communities that expand who gets to participate in tech and education. He holds a Master's in Business Information Technology from RMIT University and has mentored over 15,000 students across four countries. A self-described "Professional Generalist," Purvang has launched startups, led global teams, and designed learning experiences that prioritise transformation over transaction. He is also a guitarist, writer, and theatre artist, because he believes creativity is where the best ideas begin. Purvang is passionate about helping the next generation of students find their voice and build their future with purpose.ption text goes here

Riya Gupta is a marketing strategist passionate about community-building, storytelling, and elevating international student voices. As the Events and Program Lead at Future Forte Australia, she drives digital campaigns and event communications that have reached thousands across Victoria. Originally from India, with a Master’s in Marketing from La Trobe University, she brings a multicultural lens from her work with global coworking networks and her facilitation on branding, belonging, and public speaking.

Tinaika is originally from the vibrant culture and famous beaches of Goa, India. She

describes herself as a student advocate, community builder, storyteller, and

someone who genuinely cares about the international student community. Tinaika is

passionate about creating spaces where international students feel confident,

supported, and connected

Tinaika is currently a Study Melbourne Ambassador and is pursuing a Diploma in

Management. She is also a founder and podcast host, where she shares honest

conversations about personal growth, friendships, careers, and navigating life

abroad, with the hope of uplifting and inspiring other international students.

When she’s not working on community initiatives or storytelling projects, you’ll likely

find her café hopping around Melbourne, fuelled by “at least three coffees a day”.

Felipe Fogaca is an international education professional with a deep commitment to helping international students thrive in Australia. Currently serving as the Careers & Employability and Alumni Engagement Coordinator at the Education Centre of Australia, Felipe brings experience designing and executing student targeted initiatives spanning careers, mental health, sports, and networking. Originally from Brazil and holding a Bachelor of Laws and an MBA, he has built a distinctive profile bridging professional expertise and community leadership — having served as a Study Melbourne Student Ambassador in 2025 and currently holding the role of International Student Ambassador for the City of Melbourne. Felipe is also part of the Work Ready Program with the Migrant Workers Centre and leads the Empower Program at Future Forte. Felipe's greatest strength lies in meeting and connecting people, never missing a chance to help someone.

I’m Mohammed (Nas) Anas. I am a Master of Education student from India, and I am incredibly

passionate about creating spaces where everyone feels a true sense of belonging.

Through my work with various student unions and multicultural organizations, I’ve always

focused on amplifying diverse voices and bringing people closer together. For me, deeply

understanding different cultures and identities is how take steps towards healing divides and

building resilient, welcoming communities where no one feels invisible.

I am absolutely thrilled to be a part of Mosaic. The event beautifully mirrors my own

commitment to having honest conversations, embracing cultural diversity, and supporting

international students as they navigate their journeys and find their home away from home

here in Australia.

I’m an international student from South Korea currently studying Health Science in Melbourne. With a background in education and science, I’ve always been passionate about people, learning, and understanding different perspectives.

Over the past two and a half years, I’ve had the opportunity to travel across more than 30 countries, which has deeply shaped the way I see culture, identity, and human connection. Through studying, working, and living in different environments, I’ve developed a deep appreciation for cultural diversity and the importance of creating a sense of belonging.

Alongside my studies, I’m actively involved in community initiatives, including serving as a City of Melbourne International Student Ambassador. I enjoy meaningful conversations, cultural exchange, and creating spaces where people feel comfortable sharing their stories and experiences.

Hailey Dang is a Research Coordinator at the University of Melbourne and a Study Melbourne Ambassador 2026, representing international student voices across Victoria. She is currently pursuing a Master of Information Systems at the University of Melbourne, where she has also contributed as a Peer Mentor in the Faculty of Engineering and IT and as a Sustainability Ambassador. Believing that growth happens through connection and challenge, Hailey is passionate about using education, technology and community-building to uplift others. As a TEDx Ambassador and community advocate, she champions youth development, women in STEM and inclusive spaces where people feel supported, heard and seen. Originally from Vietnam, and having travelled across three continents and twelve countries, Hailey deeply values diversity, empathy and meaningful dialogue. Through her story, she hopes to highlight the quiet resilience behind the international student journey and encourage students to see their cultural background as a source of perspective, strength and leadership.