Gilbert Tanoto
Charles Darwin University student, pursuing a Bachelor of Information Technology.
Immersing yourself in the local community will not only enrich your academic experience but also help you build a strong network and make lasting friendships.
Moving to the Territory has been an incredibly enriching experience.
Gilbert is originally from Indonesia and moved to Darwin to pursue a Bachelor of Information Technology at Charles Darwin University (CDU). He has now been living in the region for almost a year. From the moment he arrived, Gilbert was welcomed by the friendly, diverse community, making him feel right at home.
“The welcoming and multicultural community enhances my experience, allowing me to connect with people from various backgrounds. The opportunities for personal and academic growth at CDU have made my time here truly enriching. Overall, it feels like a great fit for me!”
The Northern Territory offers a unique blend of natural beauty, a strong sense of community, and a supportive academic environment. “I’ve chosen to stay in the Northern Territory because I really enjoy the similar weather to what I'm used to back in Indonesia. It's warm and tropical, which makes me feel at home. The lush tropical vibes and beautiful landscapes, along with the stunning sunsets, are also a big draw for me.”
Academically, CDU has been an excellent environment for growth and collaboration. Gilbert’s studies in Information Technology have allowed him to explore his passions and connect with like-minded individuals who share his interest in technology.
In his short time in the Territory, Gilbert’s passion for digital innovation has allowed him to take part in some uniquely Territorian opportunities. Most recently he worked on the ConnectVan project which earned him the NT Digital Excellence Awards 2024 for the CDU CodeFair Overall Award - Most Outstanding Entrant. “The project’s aim is to improve digital literacy by bringing interactive learning modules to remote communities. We developed a mobile van that travels to these areas, offering valuable educational resources.”
He also participated in a roadshow trip to various remote communities with the CDU Radicle Centre where he ran virtual reality workshops. The VR experience focused on space exploration and featured a battleship game that my friend and I created. We were accompanied by astronaut Katherine Bennell-Pegg, and the students were absolutely thrilled by the experience. The roadshow took us to schools in Batchelor, Adelaide River, Katherine, Mataranka, and all the way to Elliot, where we received an overwhelmingly positive response from the students.
Outside of academics, Gilbert has embraced multiple leadership roles that allow him to contribute to the vibrant CDU community. “I’m really involved in various aspects of life in the Northern Territory. At CDU, I’ve had the opportunity to host several events, including the Music Competition 2024 for talented CDU students and guitar tutor sessions aimed at fostering musical skills within our community. I also organized the Shutdown Tank, where students pitched their ideas, encouraging innovation and collaboration among peers.”
Through these activities, Gilbert has been able to develop new skills and build strong connections with other students.
Gilbert’s volunteer work has further enhanced his experience in the NT. He is an emergency service volunteer with the Australian Red Cross and a member of the United Nations Association of Australia (UNAA) NT division. Additionally, he works with the Indonesian community through the Nusantara Foundation NT Inc., where he focuses on digital and social media efforts. Volunteering with Inspired NT has allowed Gilbert to give back to the community, making his time in the NT even more fulfilling. “Being involved in these groups allows me to connect with others, develop new skills, and give back to the community, which I truly enjoy.”
A highlight of his involvement in the NT was his role in organizing the Indonesian Festival, Pesona Indonesia. “The Indonesian Festival is particularly special as it celebrates my culture and promotes understanding within the community.” The Northern Territory has provided Gilbert with invaluable opportunities for personal and academic growth, allowing him to connect with others, contribute to the community, and develop both professionally and personally.
Gilberts final advice:
Considering moving to the Territory?
“Embrace the unique experiences it offers and be prepared for the warm, tropical weather, it can be intense, but you'll quickly adapt, and there are plenty of outdoor adventures to enjoy.”
Considering studying in the Territory?
“Immerse yourself in the local culture and community right from the start. Engage with fellow students and participate in local events and activities. This not only enriches your academic experience but also helps you build a strong network and make lasting friendships.”
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