View the full event seminar programme for ICEF Secondary Education KL, where we welcome guest speakers to discuss and debate the latest issues in international education. The seminars, panels, and round table discussion will take place on Wednesday 15th January between 13:30 and 19:00.
Wed • Jan 15
From
to
13:30 - 13:55Seminar room
How to build effective relationships in 25 minutes • Agents & Providers (for FIRST TIMERS)
Presentation
Josephine (Jo) Phinith
Josephine (Jo) Phinith
Josephine Phinith is a seasoned professional in international education, recognized for her dedication to driving positive change. With a solid foundation in the accommodation market, Josephine began her career at Student.com, where she quickly advanced to the role of Regional Manager for SEA. Her strategic insights and commitment to excellence contributed to notable growth in bookings and revenue during her tenure.
Transitioning to Amber Student, Josephine played a key role in guiding the company's international expansion efforts. Drawing on her industry expertise, she contributed to shaping global strategies and cultivating valuable partnerships. With six years of experience in the accommodation market, Josephine brings a wealth of knowledge and a proven track record of success to her role as ANZ Business Development Manager at ICEF, where she aims to continue driving impactful initiatives within the international education landscape.
PresenterBusiness Development Manager, ICEF
This session will provide educators with a step-by-step guide on how to make the most out of their participation at ICEF events in general and ICEF Secondary Education KL in particular.
The session will cover the following topics:
- How to maximise your time during the event
- Post-event follow-up and agent contracts
- How to maximise your working relationship with providers and agents
14:00 - 14:25Seminar room
Market trends for secondary education: Findings from the ICEF Agent Voice survey 2024
Presentation
Ahmad Alsagoff
Ahmad Alsagoff
Ahmad began his career in finance, quickly earning recognition for his ability to create dynamic and impactful Salesforce reports, leading him to be recruited into a special taskforce as a Salesforce consultant for a company in the Netherlands. When the ICEF Agent Voice initiative was launched, Ahmad’s exceptional expertise and visionary approach positioned him as the top choice to lead its implementation—a responsibility he has executed with unwavering dedication and remarkable success.
Beyond his corporate achievements, Ahmad founded companies specializing in audio engineering and Industry 4.0, focusing on AI and Blockchain technologies. This entrepreneurial spirit, combined with his first-class honors degree in Mechatronics Engineering, has shaped his multidisciplinary perspective and innovative approach to problem-solving. Currently a CFA candidate, Ahmad continues to expand his expertise and turn visionary ideas into reality.
PresenterBusiness Intelligence Executive, ICEF
Join us for an in-depth exploration of the latest ICEF Agent Voice survey results, offering insights specifically tailored to trends and challenges in secondary education student recruitment.
Key topics to look forward to:
- Recruitment expectations & Decision-making factors
- Student interest & Visa approval rates
- Agency Remuneration & Partnership
The ICEF Agent Voice survey is conducted annually with ICEF-screened agents from over 100 countries. The survey stands out for its consistency, extensive reach, and detailed insights, comparing the perspectives of agents worldwide. It provides fresh insights into how agents are adapting to and addressing global challenges.
14:30 - 14:55Seminar room
Strategic recruiting in K-12: What works and what doesn't
Interview
Nick Stevenson
Nick Stevenson
Nick has been at ICEF since 2014, and is Executive Director of EMEAA, helping education and service providers build lasting relationships with quality agents. He studied Spanish & Management at the University of Leeds, including an Erasmus Year at the Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Faculty of Economics & Business. Since graduating from university in 2008, he has been working within the international education sector, previously in business development positions with Study Travel Magazine and Inline. Marketing. He recently completed a Part-Time MBA at the University of Salford, which included a research project focused upon the future of agents
ModeratorExecutive Director, EMEAA, ICEF
Shawn Silverstone
Shawn Silverstone
Shawn Silverstone is the Director of International Marketing and Recruitment for the Coquitlam School District in Metro Vancouver, Canada. With 19 years of experience in the education sector, he has worked for a public post-secondary institution and two public school districts. Shawn specializes in developing international contracts, partnerships, and client-focused education programs.
His innovative marketing strategies have expanded the Coquitlam brand to over 40 countries, attracting students worldwide. Recognized with the BCCIE Excellence in International Education Marketing Award, Shawn is dedicated to fostering global connections and positioning Coquitlam as a leading destination for international education.
PanelistDirector, International Marketing and Recruitment, Coquitlam School District
Jennifer Nguyen
Jennifer Nguyen
Jennifer Nguyen is the founder of Studii Academy, an organization committed to preparing students for transformative international study experiences. With over a decade of expertise in the study abroad industry, she specializes in building partnerships between agencies and educational institutions, focusing on holistic student development and sustainable recruitment strategies.
Under Jennifer’s leadership, Studii Academy has guided students on successful academic journeys to the US and other global destinations, emphasizing not only academic preparation but also life skills, emotional resilience, and gratitude. A passionate advocate for strategic collaboration in the K-12 sector, Jennifer brings practical insights from extensive engagement with schools, parents, and agencies across diverse markets. She is excited to contribute to and learn from this important dialogue on international student recruitment.
PanelistFounder, Studii Academy
While international student recruitment professionals have always had to respond to a range of challenges, the K-12 sector has had to promote itself on the specific values and services centred around the pastoral care of minors. The shock of COVID-19 greatly impacted both agencies and schools throughout the world, forcing many schools to rethink their strategies and, in some cases, the markets of interest to them. Equally, it encouraged new agencies to find additional partners and diversify the study destinations with which they work.
There are grounds for hope. With international student numbers continuing to grow, new strategies are emerging. In this session, Shawn Silverstone, Van Nam Do, and Anthony Lee guide the audience through the strategies that work and the ones that don’t, using case studies and hard-earned experience to offer practical tips for successful recruitment.
15:00 - 15:25Seminar room
The important role of agencies in the K-12 sector landscape
Presentation
Bonnie McKie
Bonnie McKie
Bonnie’s career in international education began in 2001 with her starting the International Student Program for the Surrey School District. The program grew steadily under her leadership until she relocated to Calgary, AB in 2007. Shortly thereafter and upon incorporation of CAPS-I in 2008, Bonnie took on the role of Executive Coordinator, later becoming the Executive Director and continues to provide leadership for the organization today.
Bonnie currently serves on the Canadian Bureau for International Education’s Immigration Advisory Committee and is a member of CANIE, Climate Action Network for International Educators. She led the Global Alliance of Education and Language Associations with a membership of leading education and language association from around the globe, as Co-Convenor from 2017-2020. Bonnie also served on the Executive Committee of IPSEA (International Public School Education Association of BC) as Treasurer and Vice-President from 2005-2007.
Bonnie resides in a suburb of Vancouver and has two grown children.
PresenterExecutive Director, CAPS-I, Canadian Association of Public Schools - International (CAPSI-I)
Over the last decade, CAPS-I data consistently shows that 80% of international students enrolling in high school programs are referred by an agency. The role of an agency is of utmost importance to the K-12 sector supporting not only the minor student, but also their family and the educational institution.
This session will explore key aspects and best practices of the role. From consultation through pre-departure, studying abroad and the transition ‘home’ or onward, agencies are essential to a successful study abroad experience.
15:30 - 15:55Seminar room
International schools in Malaysia
Presentation
Mohd Suffian bin Mahmud
Mohd Suffian bin Mahmud
PresenterPrincipal Assistant Director, Private Education Division, Ministry of Education
The session offers an in-depth overview of Malaysia’s international school ecosystem, tailored to stakeholders in the international student sector.
Key areas of focus include:
1. Overview of International Schools: A comprehensive look at Malaysia’s diverse educational offerings, including British, American, IB, and Australian curricula, and their rising popularity among expatriates and local families.
2. Regulatory Framework: An analysis of regulations governing international schools and international student recruitment, including the Ministry of Education Malaysia’s policies on international students.
3. Challenges in Recruitment: A discussion of common challenges such as compliance to requirement for international student visa and permit processes, competition among schools, and changing student demographics. It will also explore the evolving preferences for education quality and outcomes.
This session equips recruitment agents with critical insights to navigate the international school sector in Malaysia effectively, helping them guide students and families while adhering to regulations. Additionally, it will uncover opportunities for collaboration and address potential challenges for future growth in the sector.
16:30 - 17:10Seminar room
Building stronger partnerships: Meeting the challenges of quality student recruitment
Discussion
Josephine (Jo) Phinith
Josephine (Jo) Phinith
Josephine Phinith is a seasoned professional in international education, recognized for her dedication to driving positive change. With a solid foundation in the accommodation market, Josephine began her career at Student.com, where she quickly advanced to the role of Regional Manager for SEA. Her strategic insights and commitment to excellence contributed to notable growth in bookings and revenue during her tenure.
Transitioning to Amber Student, Josephine played a key role in guiding the company's international expansion efforts. Drawing on her industry expertise, she contributed to shaping global strategies and cultivating valuable partnerships. With six years of experience in the accommodation market, Josephine brings a wealth of knowledge and a proven track record of success to her role as ANZ Business Development Manager at ICEF, where she aims to continue driving impactful initiatives within the international education landscape.
PresenterBusiness Development Manager, ICEF
How can institutions and agencies collaborate effectively in the ever-changing landscape of international student recruitment? This interactive session invites participants to explore common obstacles, from onboarding new partnerships to adapting to evolving requirements. Attendees will share experiences, uncover insights, and contribute to a collective pool of best practices. Join us to connect with peers and leave with actionable strategies to enhance your recruitment partnerships.
17:15 - 17:55Seminar room
Understanding the needs of Gen Alpha's education choices
Panel discussion
Anthony Lee
Anthony Lee
Tony has two decades of experience marketing education to global youth audiences. Formerly the Global Digital Marketing Director at Study Group, where he led teams in Singapore, Shanghai, Sydney, New York and the UK recruiting students for Universities in the USA, Australia and Europe. Before this, Anthony established the digital marketing footprint for INTO University Partnerships. A seasoned platform, channel and technology strategist, Anthony specialises in International digital student recruitment. Anthony has lectured on digital marketing to universities on behalf of The EAIE, the British Council, ICEF, DAAD, CASE and NAFSA. Anthony studied Digital Disruption Strategy at Oxford University and is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Marketing.
ModeratorCVO, ICEF
Jack Zissler
Jack Zissler
Jack Zissler is the Director of 195 Global Joint Stock Company - a licensed education agent based in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Jack has resided in Vietnam for the previous 15 years and is originally from Boston, in the USA. Jack holds a Bachelor Degree in Finance from Boston College in the United States, a Graduate Diploma in International Finance from the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT) in Australia, and a Master of Business Administration degree from Georgetown University, also in the United States.
Before founding 195 Global, Jack worked on Wall Street and in management consulting for 10 years and as Deputy Global Sales Director for CEG. Jack has a combined following of over 1 million students on social media.
PanelistDirector, 195 Global Joint Stock Company
Venus Shaw
Venus Shaw
PanelistCOO, Win International Education & Investment
Jeremy B. Dean
Jeremy B. Dean
Jeremy Dean holds the position of Director of International Admissions at Queen Ethelburga's Collegiate. Operating from Bangkok, he is essential in attracting and aiding international students. With a strong background in global education, Jeremy cultivates strategies to improve enrollment,and nurtures relationships with agents and families around the globe. He represents QE at international exhibitions and works alongside colleagues in the international team to promote growth. Jeremy is committed to streamlining the admissions process and ensuring student success while enhancing QE’s standing as a premier educational institution worldwide.
PanelistDirector of International Admissions, Queen Ethelburga's Collegiate
Gen Alpha, the generation born after 2010, is redefining the future of education. As technology continues to reshape our world, these digital natives bring unique perspectives and expectations to the classroom.
This panel discussion will explore the key factors influencing Gen Alpha's educational choices, from the role of technology to parental aspirations. We’ll delve into how educational institutions are adapting to meet the needs of this generation, including the support services offered to help students transition seamlessly to new cultures and academic environments.
18:00 - 18:55Seminar room
ICEF Secondary Education KL Roundtable Series
Round tables
Terry Engel
Terry Engel
My career in education started in Taiwan, as many do, teaching ESL. I pursued my interest in Applied Chinese and finished my Masters degree (M.Ed) at National Kaohsiung Normal University. I worked in Taipei for many years before beginning my current role at Bodwell High School. Mainly a boarding school with international students, it seemed a natural fit having been an international student myself . During my time at Bodwell I have worked in many different markets, which has helped me develop a very strong sense of how boarding schools can be a formative experience for students from all over the world.
ModeratorAssistant Director of Recruitment, Bodwell High School
Nicholas Gilbert
Nicholas Gilbert
Nick Gilbert is the Director of Enrolment and International Markets
for Epsom College in Malaysia. He has worked for a number of UK institutions and organisations including Bryanston School, London School of Economics and Manchester United. Nick is currently a governor for an independent Boarding School in the UK and Chair of Governors at an independent Prep School. His primary role within Epsom is supporting parents with the enrolment process.
ModeratorDirector of Enrolment and International Markets, Epsom College in Malaysia
Vincent Chian
Vincent Chian
Dr. Vincent Chian, Group Principal of Fairview International School Malaysia and Provost of University College Fairview, is a transformative educator with over 15 years of experience. A former Psychiatry Registrar and University of Manchester medical graduate, he applies his medical insights to proactive pastoral care and holistic education. Under his leadership, Fairview has been recognized as Malaysia's top IB school and a global top 100 IB school for five consecutive years (2020-2024). An award-winning innovator, Dr. Chian pioneered initiatives like the PROSPER framework, driving data-informed decision-making to enhance student wellbeing. A sought-after speaker, coach, and consultant, he regularly shares his expertise at global education.
ModeratorGroup Principal, Fairview International School
Steven Crossley
Steven Crossley
Steve Crossley is an experienced education professional with around 20 years specializing in boarding schools, safeguarding, child protection, and student recruitment. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated a deep commitment to ensuring the welfare and safety of students, while also implementing strategic recruitment practices in a competitive market. With a comprehensive understanding of child protection policies and best practices, Steve has played a pivotal role in shaping environments where students can thrive academically and personally.
ModeratorHead of Boarding, Berlin Brandenburg International School
Nick Stevenson
Nick Stevenson
Nick has been at ICEF since 2014, and is Executive Director of EMEAA, helping education and service providers build lasting relationships with quality agents. He studied Spanish & Management at the University of Leeds, including an Erasmus Year at the Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Faculty of Economics & Business. Since graduating from university in 2008, he has been working within the international education sector, previously in business development positions with Study Travel Magazine and Inline. Marketing. He recently completed a Part-Time MBA at the University of Salford, which included a research project focused upon the future of agents
ModeratorExecutive Director, EMEAA, ICEF
As distinct from a panel session or keynote, the roundtables provide a space for a less-structured discussion but with guidance from an informed specialist. To provide that guidance, each table is led by a host whose role is to moderate and animate the discussion around the topic at hand.
- There will be two sittings of all tables, each lasting 25 minutes. The first begins at 18:00; the second at 18:30.
Roundtables' topics:
1. Offering a holistic education: How boarding schools prepare students for a successful future - Terry Engel
2. Emerging trends in international schools across Asia - Nick Stevenson
3. Safeguarding during the recruitment process - Steven Crossley
4. How do global events shape international education? The importance of remaining adaptable in an evolving market - Nick Gilbert
5. The power of partnership: Tapping into Asia’s growing education market - Vincent Chian
How to build effective relationships in 25 minutes • Agents & Providers (for FIRST TIMERS)
Seminar room
Josephine (Jo) PhinithPresenterBusiness Development Manager, ICEF
This session will provide educators with a step-by-step guide on how to make the most out of their participation at ICEF events in general and ICEF Secondary Education KL in particular.
The session will cover the following topics:
- How to maximise your time during the event
- Post-event follow-up and agent contracts
- How to maximise your working relationship with providers and agents
14:00 - 14:25Seminar room
Market trends for secondary education: Findings from the ICEF Agent Voice survey 2024
Seminar room
Ahmad AlsagoffPresenterBusiness Intelligence Executive, ICEF
Join us for an in-depth exploration of the latest ICEF Agent Voice survey results, offering insights specifically tailored to trends and challenges in secondary education student recruitment.
Key topics to look forward to:
- Recruitment expectations & Decision-making factors
- Student interest & Visa approval rates
- Agency Remuneration & Partnership
The ICEF Agent Voice survey is conducted annually with ICEF-screened agents from over 100 countries. The survey stands out for its consistency, extensive reach, and detailed insights, comparing the perspectives of agents worldwide. It provides fresh insights into how agents are adapting to and addressing global challenges.
14:30 - 14:55Seminar room
Strategic recruiting in K-12: What works and what doesn't
Seminar room
Nick StevensonModeratorExecutive Director, EMEAA, ICEF
Shawn SilverstonePanelistDirector, International Marketing and Recruitment, Coquitlam School District
Jennifer NguyenPanelistFounder, Studii Academy
While international student recruitment professionals have always had to respond to a range of challenges, the K-12 sector has had to promote itself on the specific values and services centred around the pastoral care of minors. The shock of COVID-19 greatly impacted both agencies and schools throughout the world, forcing many schools to rethink their strategies and, in some cases, the markets of interest to them. Equally, it encouraged new agencies to find additional partners and diversify the study destinations with which they work.
There are grounds for hope. With international student numbers continuing to grow, new strategies are emerging. In this session, Shawn Silverstone, Van Nam Do, and Anthony Lee guide the audience through the strategies that work and the ones that don’t, using case studies and hard-earned experience to offer practical tips for successful recruitment.
15:00 - 15:25Seminar room
The important role of agencies in the K-12 sector landscape
Seminar room
Bonnie McKiePresenterExecutive Director, CAPS-I, Canadian Association of Public Schools - International (CAPSI-I)
Over the last decade, CAPS-I data consistently shows that 80% of international students enrolling in high school programs are referred by an agency. The role of an agency is of utmost importance to the K-12 sector supporting not only the minor student, but also their family and the educational institution.
This session will explore key aspects and best practices of the role. From consultation through pre-departure, studying abroad and the transition ‘home’ or onward, agencies are essential to a successful study abroad experience.
15:30 - 15:55Seminar room
International schools in Malaysia
Seminar room
Mohd Suffian bin MahmudPresenterPrincipal Assistant Director, Private Education Division, Ministry of Education
The session offers an in-depth overview of Malaysia’s international school ecosystem, tailored to stakeholders in the international student sector.
Key areas of focus include:
1. Overview of International Schools: A comprehensive look at Malaysia’s diverse educational offerings, including British, American, IB, and Australian curricula, and their rising popularity among expatriates and local families.
2. Regulatory Framework: An analysis of regulations governing international schools and international student recruitment, including the Ministry of Education Malaysia’s policies on international students.
3. Challenges in Recruitment: A discussion of common challenges such as compliance to requirement for international student visa and permit processes, competition among schools, and changing student demographics. It will also explore the evolving preferences for education quality and outcomes.
This session equips recruitment agents with critical insights to navigate the international school sector in Malaysia effectively, helping them guide students and families while adhering to regulations. Additionally, it will uncover opportunities for collaboration and address potential challenges for future growth in the sector.
16:30 - 17:10Seminar room
Building stronger partnerships: Meeting the challenges of quality student recruitment
Seminar room
Josephine (Jo) PhinithPresenterBusiness Development Manager, ICEF
How can institutions and agencies collaborate effectively in the ever-changing landscape of international student recruitment? This interactive session invites participants to explore common obstacles, from onboarding new partnerships to adapting to evolving requirements. Attendees will share experiences, uncover insights, and contribute to a collective pool of best practices. Join us to connect with peers and leave with actionable strategies to enhance your recruitment partnerships.
17:15 - 17:55Seminar room
Understanding the needs of Gen Alpha's education choices
Seminar room
Anthony LeeModeratorCVO, ICEF
Jack ZisslerPanelistDirector, 195 Global Joint Stock Company
Venus ShawPanelistCOO, Win International Education & Investment
Jeremy B. DeanPanelistDirector of International Admissions, Queen Ethelburga's Collegiate
Gen Alpha, the generation born after 2010, is redefining the future of education. As technology continues to reshape our world, these digital natives bring unique perspectives and expectations to the classroom.
This panel discussion will explore the key factors influencing Gen Alpha's educational choices, from the role of technology to parental aspirations. We’ll delve into how educational institutions are adapting to meet the needs of this generation, including the support services offered to help students transition seamlessly to new cultures and academic environments.
18:00 - 18:55Seminar room
ICEF Secondary Education KL Roundtable Series
Seminar room
Terry EngelModeratorAssistant Director of Recruitment, Bodwell High School
Nicholas GilbertModeratorDirector of Enrolment and International Markets, Epsom College in Malaysia
Vincent ChianModeratorGroup Principal, Fairview International School
Steven CrossleyModeratorHead of Boarding, Berlin Brandenburg International School
Nick StevensonModeratorExecutive Director, EMEAA, ICEF
As distinct from a panel session or keynote, the roundtables provide a space for a less-structured discussion but with guidance from an informed specialist. To provide that guidance, each table is led by a host whose role is to moderate and animate the discussion around the topic at hand.
- There will be two sittings of all tables, each lasting 25 minutes. The first begins at 18:00; the second at 18:30.
Roundtables' topics:
1. Offering a holistic education: How boarding schools prepare students for a successful future - Terry Engel
2. Emerging trends in international schools across Asia - Nick Stevenson
3. Safeguarding during the recruitment process - Steven Crossley
4. How do global events shape international education? The importance of remaining adaptable in an evolving market - Nick Gilbert
5. The power of partnership: Tapping into Asia’s growing education market - Vincent Chian