We recorded this episode in Macquarie University’s central courtyard, a place that feels like home to both of us. Tanveer has spent 17 years here, through new vice-chancellors, rebuilt precincts and a metro line that now puts the campus 18 minutes from the CBD. He laughs that it feels like working for three or four different organisations, because the thinking and the work keep evolving. Then he tells me a sliding-doors story, the day he had a PhD interview and a university admissions interview at the same time. He flipped a coin, chose admissions, and never left international education.
Tanveer takes us back to the fax era, thick stacks of paper and month-long turnarounds, then forward to StudyLink, online enrolment, and now generative AI. He is optimistic about AI in teaching and admin, as long as pedagogy and assessment adapt, with students brought onto campus for real project work and community. We get into social licence too. Too many people think international education is only about bringing students in. Tanveer argues the real story is broader, soft diplomacy, industry links, alumni impact, and community service. He shares two decades of fundraising for Cancer Council NSW’s Biggest Morning Tea, nearly half a million dollars raised with his community, and wonders whether institutions truly capture the impact staff make beyond the campus gates. We finish with a challenge close to his heart, training the profession. Counselors and advisers carry enormous responsibility for life-changing decisions, yet there is no robust, global training pathway. AI can help, he says, but it will take intent, not just tools.
Highlights
From faxed offers to StudyLink to generative AI, how admissions and enrolment evolved
A campus transformed, from brutalist concrete to a green, people-first courtyard, new schools and a health precinct with its own hospital
The metro changed everything for talent and students, frequent services and easy access creating a city-connected campus
What AI is already changing in assignments and marking, and why universities will feel every shift first
The policy temperature today, less heat, more stability, and why a modernised ESOS framework still matters
Community contribution as reputational capital, why volunteering and local ties build trust
Untold success stories, from students earning on minimum wage to alumni building billion-dollar companies and giving back
Traveller’s tales, a sleepless first night in Pakistan, a hotel booking in Iran made for the wrong year, and a wish list flight to Africa
Why trust is the currency in student decision-making, and how to earn it
A call for proper training for counsellors, onshore and offshore, to lift capability across the ecosystem
A simple philosophy from his mum, dream big, then grow to the size of your dream
Global Horizons is a production of The Global Society, Australia’s Learning Abroad support company. Our editor is Len Zamora and our distribution specialist is Angelo Ablao. Rob Malicki is the executive editor and host. The podcast wouldn’t be possible without The Koala News, Australia’s international education news website. This episode is supported by Choosing Your Uni, Australia's unique, AI-powered platform that helps domestic and international students to find the right institution for them, and that helps Australian institutions to access new markets. For guest suggestions and feedback, email podcast@globalsociety.com.au
It’s day two of the AIEC conference in Canberra, and co-hosts Rob Malicki and Dirk Mulder have barely caught their breath. The expo hall’s buzzing, the NOSC allocations have just dropped, and everyone’s trying to figure out what it all means.
From the latest on the government’s New Overseas Student Commencement numbers to AI quietly making visa decisions, this episode of Global Horizons takes you right into the thick of it — straight from the floor of Australia’s biggest international education gathering.
In typical Rob-and-Dirk style, it’s equal parts analysis, banter, and behind-the-scenes insight.
🔹 Highlights include:
What the new NOSC allocations mean for universities vs private providers — and why “normalisation” might not mean what you think.
Dirk’s bold prediction: a major student shift from universities to private HE providers come March.
How AI is already influencing visa decisions — and why that’s raising red flags for transparency.
A peek into this year’s IEAA Awards — including well-deserved wins for Kerry Ramirez, Sophie O’Keefe, and Eleanor Williams.
The challenges (and joys) of trying to write stories, attend meetings, and survive on conference-hall coffee.
Why, despite all the uncertainty, the vibe this year feels different — lighter, warmer, and more connected.
By the time the episode wraps, you’ll have a front-row view of the policy shifts, people, and politics shaping Australian international education right now — and a few good laughs along the way.
Global Horizons is a production of The Global Society, Australia’s Learning Abroad support company. Our editor is Len Zamora and our distribution specialist is Angelo Ablao. Rob Malicki is the executive editor and host. The podcast wouldn’t be possible without The Koala News, Australia’s international education news website. This episode is supported by Choosing Your Uni, Australia’s unique, AI-powered platform that helps domestic and international students find the right institution for them, and that helps Australian institutions access new markets.
For guest suggestions and feedback, email podcast@globalsociety.com.au.
When Pamela Baxter first came to Australia, it was as a wide-eyed traveller with a backpack and a dream. Decades later, she’s back, this time as Chief Product Officer at Cambridge University Press & Assessment, with a front-row seat to some of the biggest shifts happening in global education.
In this episode of Global Horizons, Pamela joins host Rob Malicki in Canberra to talk about the changing face of international higher education, from her unlikely career path (including a stint in Westminster politics!) to her long tenure at Cambridge, where she’s seen firsthand how language, access, and integrity intersect in universities around the world.
The conversation winds from light-hearted stories of gap years and cycling through Cambridge to deeply reflective questions about responsibility, equity, and the standards we uphold in global education.
🔹 Highlights include:
How Pamela went from political researcher to international education leader.
What makes Cambridge one of the world’s most international cities.
Why English proficiency isn’t just an entry requirement, it’s a key to student wellbeing and success.
The global dilemma: universities balancing financial pressures with educational integrity.
The real-world consequences of under-prepared students—from isolation to poor post-study outcomes.
Pamela’s advice for universities: “Be honest with students. Set them up for success, not struggle.”
You can find the report from Jobs and Skills Australia, mentioned in this episode, here.
Global Horizons is a production of The Global Society, Australia’s Learning Abroad support company. Our editor is Len Zamora and our distribution specialist is Angelo Ablao. Rob Malicki is the executive editor and host. The podcast wouldn’t be possible without The Koala News, Australia’s international education news website. This episode is supported by Choosing Your Uni, Australia's unique, AI-powered platform that helps domestic and international students to find the right institution for them, and that helps Australian institutions to access new markets.
For guest suggestions and feedback, email podcast@globalsociety.com.au
You’ve sorted your sessions, booked your flights — now it’s time to talk about the fun stuff. In this AIEC Warm-Up episode, I’m joined by Catania Aviles, Conference Manager for the Australian International Education Conference, to give you the inside scoop on all the socials at this year’s event in Canberra.
From florals to flannels, cocktails to costumes, Catania takes us behind the scenes of the networking events that bring 1,500 delegates together every year — and explains why these moments often spark the best professional connections of all.
Highlights you’ll hear in this episode:
Catania also shares what she’s most looking forward to — from having exclusive use of the NCC Canberra to finally putting faces to the hundreds of names she’s emailed all year.
Whether you’re attending for the content, the connections, or the costumes, this episode will get you hyped for the week ahead at AIEC 2025.
Global Horizons is a production of The Global Society, Australia’s Learning Abroad support company. Our editor is Len Zamora and our distribution specialist is Angelo Ablao.
Rob Malicki is the executive editor and host. The podcast wouldn’t be possible without The Koala News, Australia’s international education news website.
This episode is supported by Choosing Your Uni, Australia’s unique, AI-powered platform that helps domestic and international students to find the right institution for them, and that helps Australian institutions to access new markets.
For guest suggestions and feedback, email podcast@globalsociety.com.au
When you think of AIEC, you probably think of universities, agents and policy debates — but there’s another powerhouse quietly shaping Australia’s international education story: the schools sector.
In this AIEC warm-up episode, I sit down with Linda Vaughn, long-time international education professional and champion of public schooling, to unpack what’s in store for Schools Day at this year’s Australian International Education Conference in Canberra.
Linda shares how the conference team has listened to the sector’s feedback and responded with a dedicated Wednesday program focused entirely on schools — giving teachers and principals a chance to connect, learn and showcase their impact.
Highlights you’ll hear in this episode:
It’s a lively, thoughtful conversation about the small-but-mighty role schools play in preparing globally aware citizens, and why collaboration across all education sectors matters more than ever.
Global Horizons is a production of The Global Society, Australia’s Learning Abroad support company. Our editor is Len Zamora and our distribution specialist is Gelo Ablao. Rob Malicki is the executive editor and host. The podcast wouldn’t be possible without The Koala News, Australia’s international education news website.
This episode is supported by Choosing Your Uni, Australia’s unique, AI-powered platform that helps domestic and international students to find the right institution for them, and that helps Australian institutions to access new markets.
For guest suggestions and feedback, email podcast@globalsociety.com.au
INCOMING!!!
AIEC is now only a little over a week away. The organising teams from IDP and IEAA are in the locker rooms, stretching their hamstrings and getting ready to hit the field.
So to preview a little of what to expect, I'm going to be doing a series of "mini-pods" over the coming days.
Today I'm joined by Kirrilee Hughes, IEAA's Research Manager, to talk about all things research and data at the conference. And there's plenty of it!
It's my first time having Kik on the podcast, so please give her a warm welcome!
Global Horizons is a production of The Global Society, Australia’s Learning Abroad support company. Our editor is Len Zamora and our distribution specialist is Angelo Ablao.
Rob Malicki is the executive editor and host. The podcast wouldn’t be possible without The Koala News, Australia’s international education news website. This episode is supported by Choosing Your Uni, Australia's unique, AI-powered platform that helps domestic and international students to find the right institution for them, and that helps Australian institutions to access new markets.
When you sit down with someone whose life has been shaped by travel, chance encounters, and a willingness to say “yes,” you know the conversation will be full of surprises. That’s exactly what happened when I finally had the chance to properly chat with Johan Arnberg. We’ve crossed paths for years in international education, but this was the first time to really dig into his story — and what a story it is.
Johan grew up in Sweden, spending school holidays jetting around the world thanks to his mum’s job at SAS. From Beijing in the early 90s to the islands of Venezuela, his early life was an immersion in languages, cultures, and sometimes uncomfortable contrasts. Add to that compulsory military service, years spent as a tour guide, and a chance meeting with an Australian postgraduate student, and you’ve got the makings of an extraordinary journey into international education.
In this wide-ranging conversation, we explore everything from life lessons in leadership to the art of running student ambassador programs — and the role that recognition, honesty, and paying it forward play in student success.
Highlights you’ll hear in this episode:
How Johan’s childhood of standby tickets and spontaneous trips planted the seeds for a global career.
What it was really like living and working in Venezuela during the Hugo Chávez years.
Why serving in the Swedish military gave him unexpected leadership skills he still draws on today.
The secret ingredients of a strong student ambassador program — and how recognition really matters.
Behind the scenes of shaping major scholarships at ANU, including the Tuckwell and Chancellor’s Scholarships.
Life now at UQ, working with mobility, partnerships, and Australia Awards.
There’s plenty in here for anyone working in international education, but also for anyone curious about how life’s detours and “side doors” shape the careers we end up having.
Global Horizons is a production of The Global Society, Australia’s Learning Abroad support company. Our editor is Len Zamora and our distribution specialist is Angelo Ablao.
Rob Malicki is the executive editor and host. The podcast wouldn’t be possible without The Koala News, Australia’s international education news website. This episode is supported by Choosing Your Uni, Australia's unique, AI-powered platform that helps domestic and international students to find the right institution for them, and that helps Australian institutions to access new markets.
For guest suggestions and feedback, email podcast@globalsociety.com.au
There's so much attention on TNE right now, and maybe there's never been a more important time to be catching up with colleagues to work through the challenges.
In this special micro-podcast, as part of our AIEC Warm Up series, Rob Malicki is joined by Peter Harris, TNE legend and Exec Director of Future Students at UTS College, to have a quick chat about what's on the agenda at AIEC and some of the biggest issues facing the sector.
Global Horizons is a production of The Global Society, Australia’s Learning Abroad support company. Our editor is Len Zamora and our distribution specialist is Angelo Ablao. Rob Malicki is the executive editor and host.
The podcast wouldn’t be possible without The Koala News, Australia’s international education news website. This episode is supported by Choosing Your Uni, Australia's unique, AI-powered platform that helps domestic and international students to find the right institution for them, and that helps Australian institutions to access new markets.
For guest suggestions and feedback, email podcast@globalsociety.com.au
Christmas might still be months away, but in Australian international education the festive season seems to have arrived early. In this packed episode of Global Horizons, Rob Malicki and Dirk Mulder cover a whirlwind of updates that have the sector buzzing. From fresh NOSC data and state-federal tensions to language-learning fun and award-season celebrations, there’s plenty to unwrap.
Highlights you won’t want to miss:
Breaking NOSC Data: Are public universities, private higher-ed providers, and VET on track? Dirk breaks down the numbers, sector by sector.
Victoria’s China Strategy: Education, education, and… education. Can the state reclaim its pre-COVID crown while the federal government tightens the screws?
The Genuine Student Test Debate: Why some say the new visa rules make it too easy to say no.
Language Love: From the New Colombo Plan to the Bahasa Sesh Challenge, why learning Indonesian could be the smartest move you make this year.
Canada Calling: Australia’s High Commission hosts a standout alumni event alongside the Toronto Film Festival.
Awards Season Approaches: IEAA, NSW, NT and WA all roll out the red carpet for international education excellence.
Along the way, Rob and Dirk share wry observations about technology gaps inside government, the quirks of state–federal politics, and whether fluency in a second language might just be the ultimate future-proof skill.
Global Horizons is a production of The Global Society, Australia’s Learning Abroad support company. Our editor is Len Zamora and our distribution specialist is Angelo Ablao. Rob Malicki is the executive editor and host.
The podcast wouldn’t be possible without The Koala News, Australia’s international education news website. This episode is supported by Choosing Your Uni, Australia's unique, AI-powered platform that helps domestic and international students to find the right institution for them, and that helps Australian institutions to access new markets.
For guest suggestions and feedback, email podcast@globalsociety.com.au
When Anita Van Rooyen tells you she used to be cripplingly shy, it’s hard to believe. Today she’s a dynamo of confidence—helping students everywhere discover their own courage and voice.
I met Anita at a conference and was instantly struck by her energy. In this conversation she shares the turning points that took her from saying “no” to everything to becoming a sought-after coach transforming student lives. We talk about why courage comes before confidence, why words like “mental health” can push students away, and how small acts—like never walking past a compliment—can change the world.
Episode Highlights:
• Anita’s “lightning bolt” moment: If nothing changes, nothing changes.
• The “Courage Bucket” exercise and why action creates confidence.
• Why she refuses to use the words “mental health” in student programs—and what she says instead.
• Quick confidence boosts: 92-second dance breaks, posture shifts, and the art of dropping a “compliment bomb.”
• How universities can re-think orientation and prevention to truly support students.
From corporate fundraiser to confidence coach recognised by the Australian Government, Anita proves that a shy kid from Bright, Victoria can become a global advocate for student wellbeing—and have a lot of fun along the way.
OFFICIAL podcast of the AIEC Australian International Education Conference... registrations are open now!Global Horizons is a production of The Global Society, Australia’s Learning Abroad support company. Our editor is Len Zamora and our distribution specialist is Angelo Ablao. Rob Malicki is the executive editor and host. The podcast wouldn’t be possible without The Koala News, Australia’s international education news website. This episode is supported by Choosing Your Uni, Australia's unique, AI-powered platform that helps domestic and international students to find the right institution for them, and that helps Australian institutions to access new markets.
For guest suggestions and feedback, email podcast@globalsociety.com.au
It's been a huge week in international education, and big stories have been dropping like the Sydney rain that flooded the city this week!
When you sit down with Liam Prince, you quickly realise he’s a man of many retirements... at least, that’s how he frames the long list of niche passions he’s already lining up for the years ahead. From transcribing centuries-old folk music, to pressing for Australia’s archives to finally open up on the events of 1965, Liam’s outlook is anything but conventional.
But then again, how could it be? This is someone who grew up in Kathmandu, learned to code-switch between accents before he even knew what the word meant, and stumbled into Indonesian studies almost by accident... only to find himself entangled in a lifelong relationship with the country, its culture, and ACICIS, the organisation he now leads.
This conversation roams widely, from Nepal to Java, from youth exchange close calls to reflections on organisational culture and leadership. It’s equal parts history, music, and philosophy, and if you’ve ever wondered why Indonesia still feels like Australia’s best-kept secret, Liam has answers.
Highlights include:
Childhood memories of growing up in Kathmandu and the lasting impact of an international school education.
The serendipitous choice that led him into Indonesian studies, and the moment he first touched down in Yogyakarta.
The “resting happiness rate” of Indonesians, and why it continues to shape student experiences.
Why living in a kos (student boarding house) was the single most transformative element of his exchange.
Reflections on ACICIS’ culture of collaboration across time, space, and generations of alumni.
OFFICIAL podcast of the AIEC Australian International Education Conference... registrations are open now!Global Horizons is a production of The Global Society, Australia’s Learning Abroad support company. Our editor is Len Zamora and our distribution specialist is Gelo Ablao. Rob Malicki is the executive editor and host. The podcast wouldn’t be possible without The Koala News, Australia’s international education news website. This episode is supported by Choosing Your Uni, Australia's unique, AI-powered platform that helps domestic and international students to find the right institution for them, and that helps Australian institutions to access new markets.
For guest suggestions and feedback, email podcast@globalsociety.com.au
They’re calling us crooks.
They’re dragging ghost colleges and sex trafficking scandals back into the headlines.
And they’re using 2-year-old reports to do it.
In this episode of Global Horizons, Dirk Mulder and Rob Malicki peel back the media spin, political rhetoric, and tired narratives muddying Australia’s international education sector — and reveal the truth behind the headlines. The data’s fresh, the commentary is sharp, and the call to action is clear: it’s time to challenge the noise and stand up for a sector doing far better than it’s being given credit for.
Along the way, Rob recounts a picture-perfect morning atop Mt Wellington during the IEAA Learning Abroad Forum in Hobart, while Dirk shares a forensic breakdown of his latest Koala News piece – a must-read that unpacks the real story behind recent ASQA data, the Southern Cross University coverage, and the overuse of terms like “crooks” and “integrity.”
From New Colombo Plan shifts to AI-driven microcredentials, it’s a wide-ranging episode packed with insight, frustration, hope… and a few strong words.
You’ll hear about:
Why recent media headlines are misleading – and what the data actually says
What the sector needs to understand about evolving political rhetoric
What’s changing in the New Colombo Plan – and how institutions are adapting
Powerful takeaways from Brad Dorahy’s longitudinal study on learning abroad
A keynote moment at the Hobart forum that had people in tears
The unsung value of Sydney’s international student welcome desk
A powerful reminder that trust is international education’s greatest currency
Plus: Rob Lawrence joins Koala News, and the team reflects on the emotional power of collegiality in the learning abroad sector.
We are incredibly proud to be the OFFICIAL podcast of the AIEC Australian International Education Conference... registrations are open now!
Global Horizons is a production of The Global Society, Australia’s Learning Abroad support company.
Our editor is Len Zamora and our distribution specialist is Gelo Ablao. Rob Malicki is the executive editor and host.
The podcast wouldn’t be possible without The Koala News, Australia’s international education news website.
This episode is supported by Choosing Your Uni, Australia's unique, AI-powered platform that helps domestic and international students to find the right institution for them, and that helps Australian institutions to access new markets.
For guest suggestions and feedback, email podcast@globalsociety.com.au
What do national museums, cruise ships, Anzac soldiers, and student job readiness have in common?
Derryn Belford.
From building the National Anzac Centre in Albany to spearheading hotel development in Perth and now leading StudyPerth, Derryn’s journey is anything but ordinary. In this wide-ranging and illuminating conversation, we dive deep into the mind of a strategic thinker whose career has been shaped by curiosity, stakeholder savvy, and a genuine love for WA.
And yes, she’s still learning new industries, still reading science magazines, and still passionate about good market research.
🎧 Highlights from the conversation:
How Derryn turned a sceptical council into believers by rewriting a business case for the National Anzac Centre — one of WA’s most awarded attractions
What makes WA a “now” destination, not just a “one day” dream
Why social licence is crucial for international education (and what we’re getting wrong)
The surprising parallels between tourism and education marketing
What happens when you build strategy with people instead of for them
How growing up in seven country towns built her curiosity muscle — and her secret to getting across new industries fast
There’s a distinct pride that flows through this episode — not just in WA itself, but in doing meaningful work that lasts. And through it all, Derryn reminds us that impact isn’t about shouting the loudest — it’s about listening, adapting, and solving the real problem.
We are incredibly proud to be the OFFICIAL podcast of the AIEC Australian International Education Conference... registrations are open now!
Global Horizons is a production of The Global Society, Australia’s Learning Abroad support company. Our editor is Len Zamora and our distribution specialist is Gelo Ablao. Rob Malicki is the executive editor and host. The podcast wouldn’t be possible without The Koala News, Australia’s international education news website.
This episode is supported by Choosing Your Uni, Australia's unique, AI-powered platform that helps domestic and international students to find the right institution for them, and that helps Australian institutions to access new markets.
For guest suggestions and feedback, email podcast@globalsociety.com.au
It's been a big couple of weeks with some important changes in three separate parts of Australian international education.
On the inbound side, the Australian Government has announced the new National Planning Levels.
There are also important changes to English Language testing (more on that in a second).
Finally, the 2026 New Colombo Plan guidelines are out and... you guessed it! .. there are some pretty significant changes to that program for Australia's outbound learning abroad industry.
With all that going on, Dirk Mulder (The Koala News) and Rob Malicki (The Global Society) have plenty to talk about in this week's episode!
Joining the pair are Fraser Cargill and Patrick Pheasant from LandguageCert, one of the successful new providers of the approved English Test for Australian visas.
We discuss the journey to becoming approved and how LanguageCert became the global power it is, all the while being less known in Australia. That sounds like it may change soon if Fraser and Patrick have anything to do with it!
We are incredibly proud to be the OFFICIAL podcast of the AIEC Australian International Education Conference... registrations are open now!
Global Horizons is a production of The Global Society, Australia’s Learning Abroad support company. Our editor is Len Zamora and our distribution specialist is Gelo Ablao. Rob Malicki is the executive editor and host.The podcast wouldn’t be possible without The Koala News, Australia’s international education news website.
This episode is supported by Choosing Your Uni, Australia's unique, AI-powered platform that helps domestic and international students to find the right institution for them, and that helps Australian institutions to access new markets.
For guest suggestions and feedback, email podcast@globalsociety.com.au
From the beer business to international education, Julian Longbottom’s career has been anything but predictable—and that’s exactly what makes this episode so good.
In this wide-ranging conversation, Rob sits down with Julian to unpack a life of unexpected pivots, bold strategies, and smart innovation—from launching Carlton Cold and Carlton Mid, to helping transform the University of Canberra’s reputation, to building StudyPortals in Asia-Pacific from the ground up.
There’s business wisdom here, to be sure—but also great stories and laughter, including a wild skiing trip to Kashmir (avalanches, Russians, military zones—you name it).
In this episode, we cover:
Plus, a memorable quote to take away:
“Is there a gap in the market… and a market in the gap?”
Julian shares candid reflections on success, failure, curiosity, and carving your own path—whether that’s through the boardroom or knee-deep Himalayan powder.
Global Horizons is a production of The Global Society, Australia’s Learning Abroad support company. Our editor is Len Zamora and our distribution specialist is Gelo Ablao. Rob Malicki is the executive editor and host.
The podcast wouldn’t be possible without The Koala News, Australia’s international education news website.
This episode is supported by Choosing Your Uni, Australia's unique, AI-powered platform that helps domestic and international students to find the right institution for them, and that helps Australian institutions to access new markets.
For guest suggestions and feedback, email podcast@globalsociety.com.au
Where did the year go?
As we plunge headlong into August, it means that the best event for international educators is just around the corner.
AIEC is in Canberra this year, and joining me on the pod is Louise Goold, chair of the conference Program Committee. Together we go through some of the key changes and enhancements to this year's conference: all the things you really need to know!
Of course, Global Horizons is the OFFICIAL podcast of the AIEC... a real privilege for us since it is the "do not miss" event of the year. Grab your registration before the conference fills up:
Global Horizons is a production of The Global Society, Australia’s Learning Abroad support company.
The podcast wouldn’t be possible without The Koala News, Australia’s international education news website.
This episode is supported by Choosing Your Uni, Australia's unique, AI-powered platform that helps domestic and international students to find the right institution for them, and that helps Australian institutions to access new markets.
For guest suggestions and feedback, email podcast@globalsociety.com.au
Our editor is Len Zamora and our distribution specialist is Angelo Ablao. Rob Malicki is the executive editor and host.
A surprise bulletin from the RBA, a sobering reality check at the IEAA’s TNE Forum, and new data showing a dramatic shift toward intra-Asian student mobility — July’s international education news cycle was anything but quiet.
In this wide-ranging episode of Global Horizons, Dirk Mulder and Rob Malicki tackle the biggest stories shaping the future of the sector — from transnational education (TNE) to housing policy, and what Australia's universities can learn from shifting student sentiment.
Tune in for:
-Why the RBA’s surprise bulletin just blew up the “students cause housing stress” myth
-The warning signs emerging at the TNE Forum (hint: don’t jump in without a map)
-Why more students are now choosing Asia for their international education
-What the Keystone report says about Hong Kong, Singapore, and Malaysia’s rise
-Plus: Why ACICIS alumni are being asked to help prove just how powerful Indonesian language and study abroad can be
Also in this episode: reflections on social licence, housing economics, Australia’s global competitiveness, and the intergenerational impact of shifting study trends — all wrapped in signature Global Horizons commentary.
Stick around for the outro as Rob gives a sneak peek into the next episode — a full preview of the AIEC 2025 conference program with conference chair Louise Gould.
LAST CHANCE!
Super early bird tickets for AIEC are closing soon - grab your tickets before July ends and save hundred!
Global Horizons is a production of The Global Society, Australia’s Learning Abroad support company. Our editor is Len Zamora and our distribution specialist is Gelo Ablao. Rob Malicki is the executive editor and host.
The podcast wouldn’t be possible without The Koala News, Australia’s international education news website.
This episode is supported by Choosing Your Uni, Australia's unique, AI-powered platform that helps domestic and international students to find the right institution for them, and that helps Australian institutions to access new markets.
For guest suggestions and feedback, email podcast@globalsociety.com.au
You know those people who make the impossible look effortless? That’s Josephine Williams.
In this episode, Rob sits down with the former AIEC Conference Manager and international education legend to unpack the stories behind the scenes—and behind the passport stamps. From coordinating a last-minute plenary for 300 delegates to climbing into a taxi bound for Damascus (yes, that Damascus), Josephine’s career has been anything but ordinary.
What starts with a streaker in Fitzroy becomes a wild ride across languages, countries, and careers—all fuelled by adrenaline, curiosity, and a love of making things happen.
In this episode:
🚨 That time 300 people mobbed an AIEC session and Josephine had to find a solution—fast
✈️ How a failed translation career led to a global event management path
Backpacking pre-Google Maps: navigating Laos with film cameras and walkie talkies
Teaching in Korea, fleeing Dubai, and accidentally discovering Beirut
Why feedback matters—and how innovation really happens in large-scale conferences
The bittersweet joy of stepping back after being the heart of an event for a decade
We also get reflective: What photos are missing from your life? What makes you feel most alive? And how do you find your safe space when the world is chaotic?
This one’s a story-lover’s dream, and a testament to what can happen when you say yes—to jobs, countries, conversations, and even a bit of chaos.
In this week’s episode of The Koala News on Global Horizons podcast, Dirk Mulder (The Koala News) and Rob Malicki (The Global Society) we’re digging into the latest InternationalEducation News.
- A new Purpose Built Student Accommodation provider is entering Australia.
- Another ELICOS/VET provider has closed as a result of the Government’s ongoing catastrophicpolicies.
- Big news in the Learning Abroad space as Australia’s leading third party provider, CIS Australia, merges with CEA Capa.
Dirk and Rob are also joined by Brett Blacker, Managing Director Australia-New Zealand for Duolingo to talk about English language testing and what’s going on in thatspace.
We are incredibly proud to be the OFFICIAL podcast of the AIEC Australian International Education Conference... registrations are open now!
Global Horizons is a production of The Global Society, Australia’s Learning Abroad support company.
The podcast wouldn’t be possible without The Koala News, Australia’s international education news website.
This episode is supported by Choosing Your Uni, Australia's unique, AI-powered platform that helps domestic and international students to find the right institution for them, and that helps Australian institutions to access new markets.
For guest suggestions and feedback, email podcast@globalsociety.com.au
Our editor is Len Zamora and our distribution specialist is Angelo Ablao. Rob Malicki is the executive editor and host.