Scholarships' global impact

John Konybai
"This extra experience will make it easier for me to work co-operatively with different people once I complete my studies."

Scholarships can change the lives of students like John Konybai, a refugee from Sudan studying Applied Science at RMIT.

"I believe this country is a land of opportunities and I love being an Australian citizen as well as a role model for both my community and my family," says John Konybai, who is studying a Bachelor of Science (Applied Sciences - Laboratory Medicine) at RMIT University.

The Sudanese refugee was awarded a George Alexander Foundation scholarship, which he found vital to his continued learning.

"The scholarships have changed my life; I can now buy the essential materials I need to support my education," he says. "Expenses I once worried about, like books, food, clothing and transport, no longer cause me stress."

"The scholarships have stimulated my ambitions and focused my organisational skills so I can manage my study while gaining experience within different communities," he says.

In addition to attending RMIT, Mr Konybai has participated in the School of Medical Science's student leadership program and co-founded the Sudanese Lost Boys Association of Australia Inc in 2005.

It is a non-profit organisation which provides recreational and supportive programs for Sudanese young people living in Australia. The Sudanese Lost Boys are young men who were forced to flee war-torn Sudan.

"This extra experience will make it easier for me to work co-operatively with different people once I complete my studies."

Mr Konybai came to Australia five years ago, and is also helping his mother and siblings adjust to their new country while juggling study and volunteering.

Make an impact

You can directly help students like John by donating to student scholarships at RMIT. All donations, large or small, make a difference, and 100% of your donation goes directly to students.