Sue Ahmed receiving the Outstanding Peer Leader Award at the Australasian PASS and Peer Learning Conference.

Congratulations to Murdoch University Laboratory Medicine student Souad (Sue) Ahmed, who has been recognised with an Outstanding Peer Leader Award at the Australasian PASS and Peer Learning Conference.

The award celebrates Sue’s outstanding contribution to peer learning and student support, recognising her commitment to helping fellow students succeed while fostering an inclusive and welcoming learning environment.

Over the past four years, Sue has been actively involved in peer learning programs, developing a passion for education, mentoring and student success. Reflecting on the achievement, Sue said the award was a meaningful reminder of her journey since becoming a Peer Leader during her second year of study.

“Receiving the Outstanding Peer Leader Award at the Australasian PASS and Peer Learning Conference was a reminder of how far I’ve come since taking a chance on becoming a Peer Leader in my second year,” Sue said.

A highlight of the conference was Sue’s presentation of a workshop showcasing Murdoch University’s professional development model for Peer Leaders. Drawing on her own training in inclusion, accessibility and cultural awareness, Sue shared how these experiences have shaped her leadership approach and strengthened her ability to support diverse student cohorts.

“The training I’ve undertaken in inclusion, accessibility and cultural awareness has shaped me into the leader I am today, so it was incredibly rewarding to share this approach with colleagues from across the sector,” she said. “Seeing the audience so engaged made the experience even more meaningful.”

Presenting at her first national conference was a major milestone for Sue, who was proud to represent Murdoch University and contribute to discussions on student engagement and peer learning.

Currently in her final year of the Bachelor of Laboratory Medicine, Sue is driven by a passion for improving health outcomes through diagnostic science. Her interest in laboratory medicine stems from personal experiences supporting family members living with chronic health conditions, inspiring her to pursue a career that contributes to accurate diagnoses and better patient care.

Through clinical placements, Sue has gained practical experience across haematology, microbiology, biochemistry, toxicology and specimen reception. These experiences have strengthened her skills in laboratory workflows, specimen processing and problem-solving, while reinforcing the importance of keeping patients at the centre of healthcare practice.

Alongside her studies, Sue has continued to support fellow students through her roles as a Peer Academic Coach and PASS Leader, helping students navigate challenging concepts and build confidence in their learning.

“I’m so grateful to the colleagues, mentors and friends who have supported and believed in me throughout this journey,” Sue said. “They’ve helped shape both the person and professional I am today.”

Sue’s achievement highlights the important role peer learning plays in student success and reflects the dedication, leadership and professionalism demonstrated by many MMFS students.

The School of Medical, Molecular and Forensic Sciences congratulates Sue on this well-deserved recognition and looks forward to seeing her continued success as she begins her career in diagnostic science and healthcare.