Curtin University student Ava Rawlings awarded Global Voices Fellowship to travel to Canberra and Switzerland

Narrogin-rasied Ava Rawlings has been awarded a prestigious fellowship, which will enable her to meet with policy experts and government leaders in Canberra this month before travelling to Switzerland for a United Nations summit.

Ms Rawlings was one of two recipients of the Global Voices Fellowship, with Esperance local Connor Maloney also receiving the honour.

Run through Curtin University, the Global Voices Fellowship aims to provide the next generation of leaders with the opportunity to gain in-person, hands-on experience in policymaking, international relations and diplomacy at major international events.

Both Curtin students will visit Canberra in early February for a three-day briefing, which will include private meetings with senior government leaders, policy experts, academics, and industry leaders.

They will also participate in workshops and other professional development opportunities.

Later in July, Ms Rawlings will travel to Geneva, Switzerland, to attend the United Nations-run AI For Good Summit where she will hear from speakers including willi.i.am, the Prime Minister of Bhutan Tshering Tobgay, and TIME magazine chief executive Jessica Sibley on the effect of artificial intelligence on industry.

Ms Rawlings is studying a double degree of a Bachelor of Law and a Bachelor of Arts — Journalism and said she was excited to grow her understanding of the global issues surrounding AI and international law.

“This is an amazing opportunity to develop my volunteering and academic experience as I strive to have a positive contribution to this area of policy,” she said.

“I am especially interested in how AI can be regulated in relation to safeguarding the journalism industry as a crucial pillar of democracy.

“In times of global turmoil, we turn to news and investigative reporting, so this crucial work must be protected, with a focus on the sustainable development of AI technology.”

Curtin vice-chancellor Professor Harlene Hayne said the fellowships reflected the calibre of Curtin students and the university’s strong global focus.

“Ava and Connor are outstanding examples of the next generation of leaders Curtin is proud to support, not only excelling academically but also motivated to engage with the complex challenges shaping our world,” she said.

“As a global university, Curtin is committed to tackling issues of international significance, from emerging technologies and global governance to security and diplomacy.

“These fellowships give our students the opportunity to contribute to those conversations on the world stage.”