After graduating from UWA at the end of 2022, Nicole Kostova headed to London for a role with the Australia-UK Chamber of Commerce, and with a passion for creating connections and opportunities for others.
Nicole made a McCusker Centre for Citizenship internship part of her Bachelor of Arts, with her Department of Transport internship complementing her majors in Political Science, International Relations and Marketing and adding to the experience that helped her secure her role as Membership Engagement Manager at the Chamber of Commerce (the Chamber).
“Throughout my final year at UWA, I reflected on the direction I wanted to take after graduation. My McCusker Centre for Citizenship internship with the Department of Transport reinforced my interest in work connected to government and roles that deliver a direct, positive impact on the community. As Marketing and Communications Officer Intern, I gained experience in project work and collaborating with a range of organisations and community groups. This gave me an early appreciation for the importance of building strong relationships and developed my confidence in stakeholder communication - skills that have proven highly relevant and valuable in my current role,” Nicole said.
Nicole helps the Chamber deliver a wide program of events to engage with their membership base of more than 200 companies, charities and individuals, and works closely with key stakeholders including Australian State and Federal Governments to strengthen the relationship between Australia and the UK.
Aligning her skills and experience with what motivates and inspires her personally, Nicole has found avenues to build community in her professional projects, as well as outside of work.
“My passion lies in people - their stories, motivations, and the connections that bring communities together. I want to create opportunities that help others, whether by supporting an organisation’s growth, raising awareness of important social issues, or connecting someone with the right opportunities.
“At the Chamber, I helped establish the Young Professionals Network, which is designed to connect emerging leaders through networking events with inspiring speakers. It has been wonderful to see the impact this has had on building confidence, forming friendships, and helping people grow their careers in the UK.
“I also founded the Hyde & Seek Run Club that has been meeting every Saturday for almost two years. Watching the relationships and sense of belonging that have grown from it has been very rewarding. Both initiatives have become valuable landing pads for Australians new to London looking to build a supportive community.
“Being part of a supportive community, especially when living abroad, is so important. Nurturing those relationships makes a real difference as you never know when paths might cross again or what opportunities may arise in the future. I’ve stayed connected with contacts from my McCusker Centre internship, including my mentor, and have invited McCusker Centre alumni to Chamber events in London. I also regularly attend UWA alumni events, which has been a great way to meet people who you can share similar stories with halfway across the world.”
In recognition of the work she has done with the Chamber, Nicole was invited to attend the Buckingham Palace Royal Garden Party in May.
The appeal of an international move for Nicole lay in the potential for unique opportunities to grow and develop, and taking the leap has paid off personally and professionally. Reflecting on her experience, however, has provided her with lessons that are relevant to students who take up opportunities closer to home.
“Living in London for the past two and a half years has been an enriching experience. The proximity to Europe has allowed me to travel and immerse myself in different cultures, and my role has allowed me to develop a strong understanding of Australia’s trade, investment and cultural ties with the UK, and to meet people I never would have otherwise.
“My advice to current students is to embrace every opportunity to build genuine relationships. Internships are one great way to do this; the connections you make, whether with mentors, peers, or organisations, can open unexpected doors in the future. Networking is a skill that improves with practice; the more you do it, the better you get. UWA offers plenty of events to help you develop this skill. Remember to stay curious, be proactive, and always nurture your network.”