Meet Jamil: Leadership and community focus for UniSQ student

International student Jamil Istiaq has always had a passion for leadership.

The Master of Data Science student moved to Australia from Bangladesh to study at the University of Southern Queensland (UniSQ) after completing his undergraduate degree in Computer Science at the American International University (Bangladesh).

With an already impressive academic history, Jamil said that by continuing his studies in a new country, his drive to pursue leadership development opportunities was fuelled by his commitment to giving back to his new community.

He has done just that. Jamil became a Student Representative of the School of Mathematics, Physics, and Computing, participated in the UniSQ Leadership Excellence Academy, and most recently, attended the National Leadership Forum in Canberra.

We asked him about the forum and what he learned.

What is the National Leadership Forum?

The National Leadership Forum, co-chaired by Julian Leeser MP and Luke Gosling OAM MP, is an annual four-day program that nurtures future Australian leaders. Established in 1997 and hosted by a multi-party group of Federal Parliamentarians, the forum offers young leaders the chance to engage with Members of Parliament and other notable leaders, enhancing their leadership skills through values, compassion, and connection.

What did you learn about leadership?

During the forum, I gained profound insights into leadership. Leadership, I learned, is not about individual authority but about valuing, respecting, and listening to others, fostering open communication, and creating an environment where everyone feels understood. A true leader excels in teamwork, recognising that leadership is a collective effort.

What are your career dreams, and how will you benefit from attending the forum?

As I look toward my future career as a data scientist, data analyst, or data engineer, I understand the critical role that leadership and ethical responsibility play in these fields. Data is an invaluable asset to individuals and organisations alike, and the experience I gained at the forum on values-based leadership aligns seamlessly with the ethical challenges in data science, such as data privacy, responsible AI, and ethical data usage. The strategies and practical knowledge from the forum will undoubtedly enhance my ability to lead projects ethically and effectively.

Would you recommend these leadership opportunities to future students?

I highly recommend future students participate in leadership conferences like the National Leadership Forum. These opportunities not only develop leadership skills but also provide a platform to shape the future of Australia with motivated, visionary leaders. It’s a blank slate on which young leaders can write the next chapter for the country.

Learn more about the National Leadership Forum.