Regional workshop helps alumni showcase their impact through written storytelling
Posted: 15 April 2026
From late January to early February 2026, Australia Awards – South Asia & Mongolia convened 130 alumni from across the region for a workshop on written storytelling. Delivered by UQ International Development (a team within the University of Queensland) and facilitated by award-winning creative writer and academic Helen Marshall, the sessions supported alumni to translate their lived experiences into compelling narratives that demonstrate the impact of their Australia Awards journeys.
Held on Zoom across three sessions, the workshop guided participants through foundational principles of storytelling and practical writing techniques. The sessions aimed to equip alumni with the skills to craft authentic written stories that showcase how their Australia Awards Scholarships have influenced their professional practice, communities and countries.
Helen (left) with an image of her book on the right.
Each session introduced core storytelling elements such as character, context, conflict and change, exploring how these can be applied to personal and professional narratives. Participants were also introduced to key story ‘shapes’ that provide structure for developing impactful written stories. Through guided mapping and reflective exercises, alumni traced their Australia Awards journeys, identifying turning points, challenges and outcomes. Practical writing tips, peer discussion and drafting time enabled participants to begin shaping their own impact stories during the workshop.
The workshop was designed to support alumni to prepare compelling written stories for the Australia Awards – South Asia & Mongolia Alumni Impact Competition, which is now open. The competition marks the 75th anniversary of the first Australian Government scholarships under the Colombo Plan, which enabled students from South and South-East Asia to attend Australian universities and technical colleges. These stories will highlight the long?term value of Australia Awards and the contributions of alumni across South Asia and Mongolia.
In the post-event survey, alumni highlighted the value of the sessions in helping them clarify and communicate their work and impact. Pakistani alumnus Dr Ikhtiar Ahmed said, “This workshop strengthened my ability to craft clear, impactful stories from real entrepreneurial experiences. It provided practical tools to translate grassroots work with startups and youth into compelling narratives that can inspire action, influence stakeholders and amplify impact.”
Further details on the Alumni Impact Competition, including how to enter, are available here.
Note: the top photo is of an unrelated previous Australia Awards event.