Australia Awards South and West Asia

Juliana Shetara from Bangladesh is studying a Master of Energy Efficient and Sustainable Building at RMIT University with the support of an Australia Awards Scholarship. Before commencing the Scholarship, she was working as Sub Divisional Engineer at the Public Works Department of Bangladesh.

Juliana was featured as the ‘face’ of the Australia Awards promotions in Bangladesh for study commencing in 2027. We recently caught up with her to ask about her Scholarship journey, how it has affected her personal and career growth, and what advice she has for prospective applicants.

Why did you apply for an Australia Awards Scholarship?

My decision to pursue a master’s degree in Energy Efficient and Sustainable Building through the Australia Awards Scholarship was driven by its strong alignment with my professional responsibilities at the Public Works Department of Bangladesh. As the world confronts an escalating energy crisis, developing countries like Bangladesh face increasing pressure to adopt energy-efficient and sustainable solutions within the built environment. However, the current practices in public infrastructure development lack adequate integration of energy-efficient design and sustainable construction strategies. I aspire to contribute to addressing this gap by strengthening policy-informed and technically sound approaches to sustainable building.

Through my professional experience, I have witnessed the urgent need for capacity building in energy-efficient construction to reduce energy demand, lower emissions and improve the long-term flexibility of public infrastructure. Australia’s leadership in sustainable building practices, climate-responsive design and research-driven innovation deeply inspired me to seek advanced education in this field.

Australia’s strong academic environment, commitment to innovation and emphasis on inclusive learning made it an ideal setting for my postgraduate studies. The Australia Awards Scholarship represents a values-driven platform that promotes leadership, collaboration and the practical application of knowledge to address development challenges. Being selected for this program reflects a sustained commitment to learning and service, and I am privileged to join a global network of professionals dedicated to advancing sustainable development, mutual understanding and positive changes across communities.

Juliana (middle) pictured with other scholars from South Asia and Mongolia in Melbourne.

How has your Australia Awards Scholarship contributed to your personal and professional growth?

Personally, the Scholarship challenged me to step beyond my comfort zone and redefine my sense of capability. Immersion in a multicultural academic environment strengthened my confidence, courage and emotional maturity, enabling me to think critically and communicate with clarity in both academic and public settings. Navigating new academic expectations and cultural contexts enhanced my resilience and adaptability, while encouraging independent decision-making and reflective problem-solving. This journey has shaped me into a more self-assured, thoughtful and globally-minded individual.

From a professional perspective, the Scholarship expanded my horizons and strengthened my leadership capacity. Engagements such as the Scholars Symposium and academic networking platforms provided invaluable exposure to diverse perspectives and development experiences from scholars worldwide. These interactions refined my skills in cross-cultural communication, collaboration and strategic thinking. I now approach professional challenges with greater confidence, inclusiveness and a solutions-focused mindset. The Australia Awards Scholarship has elevated my professionalism and aspirations, equipping me to contribute more effectively to my organisation and to sustainable development initiatives in Bangladesh.

Juliana (right) tries her hand at Indigenous-style art with scholars from Mongolia at the 2025 Australia Awards South Asia & Mongolia Scholars Symposium in Melbourne.

University aside, what has your life in Australia been like so far?

Stepping beyond the classroom revealed Australia’s rich cultural diversity, history and values. Engaging with communities, heritage sites and natural landscapes provided experiences that complemented my studies, fostered reflection and strengthened cross-cultural awareness. I came to see Australia not only as a place of learning but as a society grounded in inclusivity, adaptability and respect.

Australia’s history, particularly the experiences of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, resonated with me on a profound level. Learning about their resilience, their cultural identity and the injustices they have endured evoked strong parallels with the suffering experienced by the people of Bangladesh during the Liberation War. This shared history of struggle fostered a deep sense of connection and empathy. Participating in a Scholars Symposium where I experienced Aboriginal art and painting traditions was especially meaningful and remains an unforgettable experience, reinforcing the importance of preserving cultural heritage and acknowledging historical truths.

I have also been inspired by Australia’s extraordinary natural beauty and biodiversity. Experiencing the blue seas, pristine beaches and unique wildlife (including kangaroos, emus and koalas) strengthened my appreciation for environmental conservation. Exploring national parks and engaging in nature walks provided balance, reflection and a deeper connection to Australia’s landscape.

Beyond cultural and environmental exploration, I engaged in seminars, workshops and networking activities through my university and the Australia Awards community. The experience enriched my life in Australia beyond academic study and reinforced the values of inclusivity, mutual respect and shared learning.

Juliana (standing, sixth from left) with other Bangladeshi Australia Awards scholars at the 2025 Scholars Symposium.

After graduating and returning to Bangladesh, how do you plan to contribute to your home country’s development?

Building on the knowledge and skills gained through the Australia Awards Scholarship, I intend to contribute to reducing Bangladesh’s dependence on fossil fuels by advancing energy-efficient, self-sustaining building systems within the construction sector. My primary focus will be on promoting buildings capable of generating a significant portion of their own energy requirements through renewable sources and regenerative design strategies suited to Bangladesh’s climate and urban context.

A key component of my work will involve applying evidence-based sustainable design principles to public infrastructure and housing projects, particularly within government-led developments. I aim to advocate for the integration of renewable energy technologies, passive design strategies and energy-efficient systems into building codes and project guidelines. By demonstrating long-term economic, environmental and social benefits, I aim to inform policy decisions and encourage broader industry adoption.

Capacity building will be central to my contribution. I plan to organise training programs, workshops and professional seminars for engineers, architects and construction practitioners to disseminate best practices in energy-efficient and sustainable building design. Through collaboration with public agencies, academic institutions and professional bodies, I seek to strengthen technical capacity and foster a culture of sustainability within Bangladesh’s construction sector. My long-term vision is to support resilient, low-carbon urban development that enhances national energy security and aligns with Bangladesh’s Sustainable Development Goals.

Juliana (left) with other Bangladeshi scholars in Melbourne.

What advice would you give to anyone thinking of applying for an Australia Awards Scholarship?

I encourage prospective Australia Awards applicants to prioritise the substance of a course over its name or institutional reputation. It is important to examine the syllabus, modules and learning objectives in detail to ensure the program provides practical knowledge and skills that can be directly applied to professional work and community development. Choosing a course that aligns closely with one’s goals enhances both personal growth and the potential to make a meaningful impact.

Life in Australia requires flexibility and adaptability. The climate, culture and academic environment vary across regions, and embracing these differences enhances both personal and professional growth. Engage actively in cultural activities, community programs and networking events, as these experiences broaden your perspective and create meaningful connections.

Australia Awards opens doors to new horizons, offering more than academic knowledge; it provides a platform to explore new ideas, cultures and ways of thinking. A Scholarship allows you to build networks, develop leadership skills and gain insights that can transform a career while making a meaningful, lasting impact on your community and country. I recommend that recipients approach the experience with curiosity, courage and a willingness to embrace challenges, and you will discover opportunities that extend far beyond the classroom.