Seminar Programme ICEF South East Asia 2025

View the full event seminar programme for ICEF South East Asia 2025, where we welcome guest speakers and panellists discussing and debating the latest trends in international education. The seminars will take place on June 10th between 13:30 and 19:00.

Tue • Jun 10
From
to
13:30 - 13:55Seminar Room
Strategic networking: Building stronger partnerships • Agents & Providers
Professional Development Presentation
Moderator
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.
Business Development Manager, ICEF

Perfect for regular attendees to both refresh their knowledge and share their experiences with first timers, this special session provides practical tips and strategies for making the most out of any ICEF event, and ICEF South East Asia in particular. 


With community at the heart of the international education industry, this session presents a unique opportunity for ICEF regulars and newcomers alike to pool their knowledge in a supportive environment, fostering a more productive event experience. 


Topic areas include: 

  • Making the most of your time during the event
  • Developing effective post-event follow-up strategies and agent contracts
  • Building a mutually beneficial relationship with providers and agents
14:00 - 14:25Seminar Room
Studying in Canada: Permits, policies, and pathways to immigration
Thought Leadership Presentation
Presenter
Nicolas Couvrette
Nicolas Couvrette
Nicolas Couvrette is Vice Consul and Global Engagement Officer for Immigration, Refugees, Citizenship Canada at the Consulate General of Canada in Ho Chi Minh City. He has been with the department since 2019, and prior to Vietnam, Nicolas was posted in Senegal, India, and the Philippines.
Vice Consul, Consulate General of Canada in Ho Chi Minh City

This session provides a timely and practical guide to the 2025 Canadian study permit application process, recent policy changes, and immigration opportunities for international students.


Attendees will gain a clear understanding of the steps to apply for a study permit and the documents required for a complete application. A particular focus will be placed on proof of financial support and the importance of adequate custodianship documentation for minor students. This includes detailed information on demonstrating sufficient funds to cover tuition, living expenses, and travel costs, as well as what constitutes acceptable financial documentation. The session will also clarify custodianship requirements, outlining what is expected from parents and designated custodians when minors plan to study in Canada. Additionally, the session will cover the appropriate use of authorized representatives in the application process, including what services are considered representation and how to declare a representative in an application.


The session will also address recent policy updates that have been implemented since 2023, including the introduction of Provincial and Territorial Attestation Letters (PAL/TAL), the federal cap on international student admissions, the decommissioning of the Student Direct Stream (SDS), and other changes to student-related pathways.


Finally, the session will briefly explore post-graduation pathways, such as the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) and the permanent residence programs available for students who are interested in obtaining Canadian work experience and residing in Canada long-term.


Designed for recruitment agents and institutional advisors, this session equips participants with the tools and insights needed to fully grasp the evolving landscape of international education and immigration in Canada.



14:30 - 15:10Seminar Room
A pathway to success: Supporting agent partners with visa applications
Thought Leadership Presentation
Presenter
Jessica Yurcheshen
Jessica Yurcheshen
Jessica Yurcheshen is a Vice Consul serving her second tour in Ho Chi Minh City in the Consular Section. She served her first tour in Chennai, India. Her career in the federal government began in 2013 as a Presidential Management Fellow at the Department of Education. Since then, she has worked at the U.S. Agency of International Development, Department of Housing and Urban Development, and Department of the Treasury.
Vice Consul, U.S. Consulate General in Ho Chi Minh City

Join Jessica Yurcheshen (Vice Consul - US Consulate General, Ho Chi Minh City) for a 40-minute session that provides a detailed overview of the current visa application process. With a practical approach that focuses on preparing the student to submit a successful application, areas covered in this presentation include: 


  • Detailed application process overview
  • A list of the key requirements for a student visa (F-1) 
  • Tips and strategies to ensure the visa application is complete and accurate
15:15 - 15:55Seminar Room
Engaging with South East Asia: Exploring effective recruitment strategies across a diverse region
Market Intelligence Panel discussion
Moderator
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.
Business Development Manager, ICEF
Panelist
Thipphavanh Southammavong
Thipphavanh Southammavong
My name is Thipphavanh Nok, and I’m the Business & Partnerships Manager at CLASSY, a leading educational business group in Lao PDR. I started my journey in international education as a student counsellor, helping young people explore study opportunities abroad. Over the past five years, I have grown into a leadership role, now overseeing both our StudyAbroad Agency and International House Vientiane. I am passionate about connecting Lao students with global learning experiences and building partnerships that open new doors. I am excited to attend ICEF Asia 2025 and honoured to share my experiences as a guest speaker during the panel discussion.
General Manager, Classy Education
Panelist
Naren Thongkaow
Naren Thongkaow
Former Director of Enrollmnet at Hult International Business School from 2010-2015, found own agency in October 2015, originally speacialized in recruiting to US, UK, and China. Over the years, through ICEF, we have expanded to Europe, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and many different parts of the world. We have 3 companies including Myadmissions, a global recruitment agency, One To China, a focused recruitment to China, and GDTSim, an Alibaba training ecosystem partner.
Managing Director, Myadmissions
Panelist
Sunita Sukumaran
Sunita Sukumaran
I am a dynamic and a visionary Managing Director and educator with a proven track record of excellence in education, leadership and organisational growth. I am internationally recognized with a vast experience of training Diplomats and Ambassadors from Middle Eastern Embassies since 2014. I also have extensive experience in delivering high - impact corporate training programs for government agencies such as Royal Air Force, Malaysian Military Service and Prime Minister's Department. I am passionate about empowering learners and professionals through transformative methods where IELTS has brought me towards a platform of a global scale. With strong education foundation, I will continue to grow and apply my learning in the real world.
Managing Director, Vesta Global Sdn Bhd @ Snappstudy Group

This session will provide an update and insights on student recruitment from three South East Asian student source markets: Thailand, Malaysia, and Laos. Seasoned recruitment professionals from each country will highlight the most effective recruitment strategies and discuss best practices when it comes to marketing and outreach, as well as advice on how to cultivate relationships with educational agents and other local key stakeholders.


In addition, we’ll look at the unique challenges faced by recruiters across the 3 markets. This will include a discussion of visa and immigration regulations, as well as cultural, economic, and political factors that may influence the recruitment process. Finally, the session concludes with an opportunity for the audience to ask questions.

16:30 - 16:55Seminar Room
Preferred destinations for Vietnamese students: A data-driven overview
Market Intelligence Presentation
Presenter
Lan Dang
Lan Dang
I’m Lana Dang, also known as “Lana Du học,” founder of Mego Vietnam and former Vice Managing Director at IvyPrep. With over 12 years in international education, I’ve supported thousands of Vietnamese students in securing placements and scholarships across the U.S., Canada, Europe, and Australia. I hold a Master’s degree from Northeastern University and specialize in data-driven counseling and strategic application planning. Through my social platforms “Du học Mỹ cùng Lana,” I share practical advice on studying abroad, reaching over 22,000 TikTok followers and 7,300 on Facebook. My work helps families navigate global education with clarity and confidence.
Director, Mego Vietnam Joint Stock Company

Vietnamese students' study abroad choices are evolving, and this data-driven overview will identify their current preferred destinations. With students moving beyond traditional destination choices, we'll analyse the latest statistics to reveal the countries now attracting the largest numbers. 


This session will not only highlight the significant shifts in student interest but also explore the primary factors influencing where Vietnamese students are choosing to pursue their education.

17:00 - 17:55Seminar Room
Evolving student preferences: The new wave of emerging study destinations
Market Intelligence Panel discussion
Moderator
Martijn van de Veen
Martijn van de Veen
Martijn van de Veen is the Chief Business Development Officer at ICEF, a leading global organisation that facilitates connections within the international education industry. In his role, Martijn oversees strategic growth initiatives, with a current focus on emerging study destinations, particularly in East and Southeast Asia. He also explores the synergies between online learning and international education and is responsible for strategic growth within relevant industry verticals, especially digital/AI, accommodation, and finance. On top of being the host of the leading ICEF Podcast series for international education professionals, Martijn frequently moderates ICEF webinars as well as panel discussions at ICEF events around the world, covering topics from policy changes and digital innovations to student flows and emerging destinations. In addition, in 2023 Martijn was recognised as one of the 50 leading voices in European international education by The Pie News. Martijn's extensive career in international education includes his time as the Global Director of the International Student Identity Card (ISIC) and as the Founder and MD of ‘Student Card Service Japan’. With a degree in Japanese, French, and International Business Communications, and having lived and worked in multiple international locations including Tokyo, Paris, Ho Chi Minh City, Vancouver, Bangkok and Amsterdam, Martijn brings a wealth of international education sector insights and a broad global perspective.
Chief Business Development Officer, ICEF
Panelist
Simon Baker
Simon Baker
I have an international mindset and from a personality standpoint, I am resilient, diligent, self-disciplined, analytical, focused, self-motivated and continuously improving. My passion for Psychology, Languages and Philosophy refine my personal growth, and I use the results to uplift my life and the lives of others. Now I am giving back and contributing to society by working in the education sector. I live by the motto "Be the best you can be, so that overall, we all benefit." I have over 12 years of international experience, based mainly in Asia. I am lucky to have experience working with and for a wide range of companies spanning the private sector (both MNCs and SMEs), the public sector, startups, as well as driving my own business.
Lecturer and Career Advisor, CamEd Business School
Panelist
Anthony Gardner
Anthony Gardner
I have lived and worked in Japan for over 25 years in the education sector. This has included language schools, textbook publishing, teacher management and international schools.
Relationship Development and Admissions Manager, Rugby School Japan
Panelist
Hanh Nguyen
Hanh Nguyen
Hanh Nguyen is an accomplished professional with extensive experience in international business, cross-cultural communication, public relations. She draws on over a decade of experience in the business sector, where she led strategic partnerships and developed market entry strategies to support French companies expanding into Vietnam. Her expertise spans multicultural project management, government relations, media relations with a strong focus on fostering collaboration between public and private stakeholders. Hanh’s international perspective is grounded in her academic journey, having spent ten years studying and working in France and the United Kingdom. Currently, she serves as regional representative of ESSCA School of management.
Head of Promotion South-East Asia, ESSCA School of Management
Panelist
Pugalenthy Dorrakkannu
Pugalenthy Dorrakkannu
I am Pugalenthy from Mahsa University, Malaysia. I am in education industry for the past 25 years. With vast experience in marketing and understanding the challenges that come with the international market.
Manager - Partnership & Collaboration, MAHSA University, Malaysia

While the US, the UK, Australia, and Canada - the “big four” - remain popular study destinations with hundreds of thousands of international students each year, their appeal has been impacted by a range of factors, such as policy decisions aimed at restricting migration and the relatively high cost of living. At the same time, student preferences focus more and more on factors like proximity, welcoming culture, and access to visa, driving considerable demand across a number of emerging destinations. 


In this panel discussion, we look at the factors driving the rising appeal of destinations beyond the “big four”. We look at what students expect in a newly competitive market and how governments across a range of prospective destinations are responding to their needs in order to effectively drive up enrolments. 

18:00 - 18:55Seminar Room
ICEF South East Asia Roundtable Series
Roundtables
Moderator
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.
Founder, Studii Academy
Moderator
Andrew Straughan
Andrew Straughan
Andy Straughan has been working with NCUK for the past 12 years, currently serving as the Global Business Development Lead. In this role, Andy has overseen NCUK's strategic business development efforts worldwide, successfully expanding its global network by establishing partnerships with over 40 new study centres across multiple regions including Southeast Asia, China and Africa. In addition to the global remit, Andy has also been Regional Director for the Middle East and Africa since 2021 and in that time he has spearheaded NCUK’s entry into key new markets including Saudi Arabia, Algeria, and Cameroon. This has all contributed to significant revenue growth, market recognition of NCUK’s qualifications, and the creation of long-term, high-impact TNE and governmental partnerships.
Business Development Lead, NCUK
Moderator
Dan Thi Tran
Dan Thi Tran
Tran Thi Dan is the Founder and CEO of Sunrise Vietnam, a pioneer in overseas education consultancy in Vietnam since 2002. Sunrise Vietnam is one of the nation’s most reputable agencies, endorsed by the British Council, US Education Center and other education partners. Renowned for its high visa success rates, exceptional service quality, and lifelong commitment to student success, the company reflects Dan’s unwavering dedication. A two-term Vice President of VIECA (2010–2016; association inactive since 2019), she championed ethical standards in education consultancy. With 3 branches in Hanoi, Haiphong, and HCM City, Sunrise Vietnam continues its mission to unlock global academic opportunities for Vietnamese youth.
Founder/CEO, Sunrise Vietnam Co., Ltd
Moderator
Mathew Radford
Mathew Radford
Mathew Radford is a seasoned international education professional with over a decade of experience expanding global recruitment, building agent networks, and launching programs tailored to international student success. As Director, Future International Students at Sheridan College, he leads strategy and operations to attract, support, and retain students from around the world. Mathew is known for developing innovative program models, streamlining admissions workflows, and leveraging data to drive strategic growth. His work bridges marketing, policy, and student support, ensuring Sheridan remains a leader in the evolving global education landscape.
Director, Future International Students, Sheridan College
Moderator
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.
Business Development Manager, 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. Best practice in developing long-term agent partnerships in South East Asia - Jennifer Nguyen
  2. Rising to the challenge: Opportunities in the Canadian higher education sector - Mathew Radford
  3. Focus on Vietnam: Effective student recruitment in a complex country - Tran Thi Dan
  4. Affordability & accessibility: Securing appropriate accommodation for international students - Josephine Phinith
  5. Pathways and vocational programmes: Changing the value proposition for students in Asia - Andrew Straughan
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