Racheline Tantular: Charting New Paths as the 2025 Zelman Cowen John Monash Scholar

College alum Racheline Tantular's remarkable journey, from a 2019 New Colombo Plan (NCP) Scholar to her recent honour as the 2025 Zelman Cowen John Monash Scholar, is a testament to her dedication to Asia-Australia relations. As the CEO of the ASEAN-Australia Strategic Youth Partnership and a recognised leader in international relations, Rachel’s path is now set to expand further with a double master's degree in International Affairs at the London School of Economics and Peking University.

From Perth to Global Leadership

A graduate of the University of Western Australia, Rachel has built a robust foundation in Asian studies, music and public policy, elevated by her Indonesian, Mandarin, and Japanese language skills.

“My favourite memories from my time at St Cat’s include forming lifelong friendships with residents from diverse courses and backgrounds—regional, international, and beyond—and reconnecting with them as alumni in places like Wollongong, Canberra, Kuala Lumpur, Shanghai and Oxford,” said Rachel. “The sense of community and camaraderie we built through board game nights, music jam sessions, hikes and Rotto trips, especially during the challenging pandemic days, was truly special. I also cherished the opportunity to explore a wide range of interests, from cheerleading and ballroom dancing to music, community service, and diplomacy, through both College and UWA life.”

From her first year of university, Rachel embraced the opportunity to attend PRISM information and networking sessions. The mock interview with a distinguished panel ahead of her New Colombo Plan Scholarship (NCP) interview was particularly valuable. “I am grateful to Professor Lyn Beazley AO, Winthrop Professor Marc Tennant AM and Dr Sue Boyd AM, Australia’s first female Ambassador to Vietnam, for their mentorship,” she said.

"Many congratulations to Rachel on such a remarkable achievement," said Lyn Beazley, Chair of the PRISM Alliance. "The scholarship is an excellent opportunity, and I have no doubt she will embrace it to the fullest."

Through her NCP Scholarship, she conducted Honours research at the National University of Singapore, studied Mandarin, and interned at SIPA Partners in Tokyo. She has also earned accolades, including the Dr Vincent Harry Cooper Memorial Prize and the title of Young Woman to Watch in International Affairs from Young Australians in International Affairs.

Professionally, Rachel has been an adviser at the Australian Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet on multicultural policy. Her consulting work spans projects in Southeast Asia, the Japan-Southeast Asia business sphere and technology-related challenges, reflecting her agility across complex diplomatic and economic issues.

Vision for Australia as a Regional Mediator

Through her time at the London School of Economics and Peking University, Rachel plans to enhance her peace mediation and conflict prevention expertise. "This research will investigate how Australia can effectively serve as a third-party mediator to foster regional stability. I'm thrilled at the opportunity to study international affairs in two very different cosmopolitan capitals that are key partners for Australia," Rachel remarked, underscoring her commitment to understanding diverse international perspectives and applying them to Asia-Pacific policy.

From a young scholar seeking advice on the NCP Scholarship to an international leader and recipient of the prestigious John Monash Scholarship, Rachel's story is an inspiring example of resilience, curiosity, and dedication to Asia-Australia relations. Her upcoming experiences in Beijing and London will build on a journey rich with accomplishments, adding new insights and skills to support her vision of a collaborative and secure Asia-Pacific future.

Inspiring the Next Generation

Rachel understands that applying for prestigious scholarships can be time-consuming and demanding, so start early, stay resilient and remember that setbacks aren’t a rejection of your dreams.

"My advice to young students applying for these types of scholarships is to carefully consider which course and university will best equip you—not anyone else—to achieve your career goals," said Rachel. "This will help you articulate your ‘why’ authentically and highlight what you uniquely bring to the table. Don’t be afraid to reach out for advice and support; many people are more than happy to help.