Student representatives

  Anoushka Sharma

  Student Council

  Master of Audiology - 2nd year
  E-mail

Hi! I’m Anoushka, a second year Master of Audiology Studies student at UQ. As an international student, I’ve experienced the unique challenges and opportunities of studying abroad, and I’m passionate about fostering a supportive and inclusive environment for all students. My academic journey has deepened my interest in hearing health and the role audiologists play in improving quality of life across the lifespan. As your student representative, I’m committed to being a strong voice for your feedback and concerns, particularly around clinical placements, course structure, and student wellbeing. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any ideas, questions, or issues you’d like to raise. I’m here to listen, support, and advocate for a positive learning experience for us all. 

  Jeyaseelan (Jas) Uthayaseelan 

  Student Council 

  Master of Audiology - 2nd year
  E-mail

Jas is a second-year Master of Audiology student at UQ. He is Tamil by heritage and upbringing. He came to Australia as a refugee in 2013 without knowing any English. During his undergraduate years at Griffith University, he served on multiple committees and, in 2025, founded The Anatomy Society at Griffith University. He currently serves as the Advisor and Immediate Past President. In 2026, he founded a national campaign called Hearing Awareness for Youth, where he serves as the Campaign Lead at UQ while also managing the campaign at a national level. He is also involved in volunteering with Ears Inc., whose mission is to transform hearing healthcare in underserved populations. Additionally, he is a contributing member of the World Hearing Forum under the World Health Organization, where he currently serves on the Changemakers team. Above all, his life purpose is to serve vulnerable and underserved communities around the world in the field of hearing health and congenital hearing loss. He believes that everyone deserves the gift of hearing, and that being part of a community of like-minded individuals will strengthen his vision and lay the foundation for his greater mission.

 Abbie Brown

  Student Council

  Bachelor of Occupational Therapy (Hons) - 4th year
  E-mail

Hi, I'm Abbie, a 4th Year Occupational Therapy student here at UQ, and honestly, I can’t imagine studying anything else! From day one, I've loved everything about this degree (even the challenges), but most importantly, the incredible connections I've built with my fellow OT students along the way. Those relationships are what make this journey so special. I've been lucky enough to serve as a student rep every year of my degree, and it's a role I'm truly passionate about. For me, it's all about being a genuine voice for my peers, building strong connections between students and staff, and working to make the OT student experience the best it can be, not just for our cohort, but for every OT student who comes after us. If you ever want to chat, share feedback, or just have someone in your corner, feel free to reach out!

  Benjamin Ong

  Student Council

  Bachelor of Physiotherapy (4th year)
  E-mail

Hey! I’m Benjamin, a fourth-year international Physiotherapy student physio-ing at UQ. Leaving my country to start a new chapter in another has been a rollercoaster of challenging times and intense excitement. Looking back, I can proudly say that my university journey has been absolutely rewarding! My favourite part is that I’m carving this journey into lifelong memories alongside my wonderful peers who made my university life much more colourful than I imagined it could have been. I recognise the utmost privilege of being able to serve as the voice of my peers in pursuit of better changes. I want to advocate for changes that will reflect positively on all physiotherapy students. Just as we share laughter and joy, as your student representative, I would love for you to share your thoughts, concerns and suggestions to help create a fulfilling university experience at the heart of UQ Physiotherapy. So if something buzzes across your mind, please feel free to reach out at any time! I never bite, and I’m always happy to lend an ear!

  Ryan Blackwell

  Student Council

  Master of Physiotherapy Studies (GEMS) - 2nd year
  E-mail

Hi, I’m Dan is a second-year UQ GEMS student in the Master of Physiotherapy studies. Graduating from Griffith University on the Gold Coast with a Bachelor of Exercise Science in 2021 I have since aimed to work and travel around Australia and the world as much as possible diversify my skills and open my eyes to as many different cultures and experiences as possible. I’ve always had a passion for helping people, and I’ve tried to carry that same mindset into my role as a student representative. For me, it’s about getting to know my peers as individuals, understanding what drives them, being approachable, and creating friendships for honest conversations. Whether it’s sharing feedback, raising concerns, or just needing someone to chat or vent to, I want people to feel like they can reach out without hesitation.  

  Bronte Calligaro

  Student Council

  Master of Speech Pathology (GEMS) - 2nd year
  E-mail

Hi, I’m Bronte! I have a Bachelor of Acting & Performance, and a Bachelor of Arts with an Extended Major in Linguistics. I’m currently in my second year of the Master of Speech Pathology Studies. As you can probably tell, I have a lot of experience being a student! I’m very passionate about the tertiary education system, particularly with regards to inclusion and accessibility of education. I’m here to advocate for an optimal learning environment for my fellow students in whatever ways I can. Please feel free to reach out with any suggestions, questions or concerns. I always welcome a chat!  

  Theertha Latheesh

  Student Council

  Bachelor of Speech Pathology (Hons) - 2nd year
  E-mail

Hi, I’m Theertha, a second-year speech pathology student. My passion for speech pathology extends beyond supporting individuals with communication and swallowing difficulties to embracing reflective practice and collaboration with others. From my first year, I was eager to connect, support fellow students, and make a positive impact within the community. Getting involved with SPASA and building connections with senior students was one of the best decisions I made! Through these experiences, I’ve met many driven and inspiring people whom I’ve had a chance to learn from. This journey also led me to co-host Chatterbox Diaries, a podcast where my friend and I help students navigate the degree by sharing our valuable experiences and practical tips. It’s amazing what you can achieve by taking small, consistent steps. Which is why becoming a student representative is especially meaningful to me because I’m passionate about supporting others and listening to your experiences and feedback to create rewarding learning experiences that shape life-long memories. If you ever want to chat about your journey or have any questions, feel free to reach out!  

  Ryan Blackwell

  Student Council

  Master of Physiotherapy Studies (GEMS) - 2nd year
  E-mail

Hi, I’m Dan is a second-year UQ GEMS student in the Master of Physiotherapy studies. Graduating from Griffith University on the Gold Coast with a Bachelor of Exercise Science in 2021 I have since aimed to work and travel around Australia and the world as much as possible diversify my skills and open my eyes to as many different cultures and experiences as possible. I’ve always had a passion for helping people, and I’ve tried to carry that same mindset into my role as a student representative. For me, it’s about getting to know my peers as individuals, understanding what drives them, being approachable, and creating friendships for honest conversations. Whether it’s sharing feedback, raising concerns, or just needing someone to chat or vent to, I want people to feel like they can reach out without hesitation.

  Angela Barnes

  Teaching and Learning Committee Student Representative

  Bachelor of Physiotherapy (Honours) - 3rd year
  E-mail

Hi! I’m Angela, a third-year Physiotherapy student at UQ. Studying physiotherapy has definitely been a bit of a rollercoaster, with lots of rewarding moments but also plenty of challenges along the way. Looking back, I know I wouldn’t have made it this far without the support of my peers and teaching staff. Having people around you who understand exactly what you’re going through really does make all the difference. That’s why I’m so grateful for the opportunity to be your Third-Year Student Representative. I love connecting with people and feel privileged to be a bridge between our cohort and the School. My hope is to help create a supportive environment where everyone feels heard and supported throughout the journey. Whether we’ve known each other since first year or haven’t had the chance to chat yet, I’d love to hear from you. If you have feedback, ideas, concerns, or just want to talk about uni life, please don’t hesitate to reach out!