The University of Notre Dame Australia proudly announces that Charlotte Carles, a committed law student from Fremantle, has been awarded the prestigious 2024 New Colombo Plan Scholarship.
The esteemed award recognises Charlotte’s dedication to human rights, Pacific cultures, and international law, as well as her pursuit of academic and professional excellence.
The New Colombo Plan Scholarship, an Australian Government initiative, supports Australian undergraduates studying and interning in the Indo-Pacific.
It aims to bolster Australia’s relationships with its neighbours through educational and professional exchanges, providing opportunities for university study, language training, and internships.
This distinguished program greatly enhances the academic and career trajectories of its participants.
Charlotte’s academic journey is marked by significant achievements; she was named Notre Dame’s Merit Scholar in 2022 and won the University’s mock trials competition in 2023.
She is currently interning at the Australian Consulate-General in Tahiti, French Polynesia, contributing significantly to Australia’s interests in the region.
Acting Consul-General of Australia in French Polynesia, Louise Abbott, has praised Charlotte as a “model intern,” commending her diligence, consideration, and hard work.
Additionally, Charlotte is engaging deeply with the local culture by studying French.
Her commitment to continual learning and cultural exchange will be showcased in July when she represents Notre Dame at the Australian Law Student Association’s national mock trial competition.
Charlotte’s next step includes a five-month full-time placement at the United Nations in Jakarta, where she will focus on ethical artificial intelligence governance and youth advocacy. This placement will be crucial in shaping her future career and contributions to global legal and human rights frameworks.
Furthermore, Charlotte will undertake a semester at the University of the South Pacific in Vanuatu to deepen her understanding of the Pacific region and human rights. This academic endeavour will broaden her knowledge and enhance her capabilities in international law.
Expressing her appreciation, Charlotte said, “I’m extremely grateful for Notre Dame’s support in helping me achieve my dreams. This scholarship is a life-changing opportunity that I am honoured to receive.”
Find out more about the New Colombo Plan Scholarship here.