Sergio fosters Latin American community while studying at CQU

By Greg Chapman

Although he’s forging new pathways as a CQUniversity student in Brisbane, Sergio Silva’s dedication to his community has seen him named as a finalist in the Latin American Awards Australia 2026.

The 31-year-old Colombian-qualified commercial lawyer, moved from Colombia to Brisbane in 2023 to study a Master of Business Management at CQU, but still maintains strong ties to the Latin American community, both in Australia and back home.

Sergio was named as a finalist in the Young Achiever Award category for his involvement within the Latin American community while studying, including through initiatives related to professional networking, support and multicultural engagement.

The Latin American Awards Australia 2026 nomination stated Sergio has “dedicated significant time to giving back to Latin American and migrant communities since arriving in Australia.”

“He volunteered with Multicultural Australia for around two years, supporting newly arrived migrants, contributed pro bono legal support through SAMBI Legal in migration and commercial law for over a year, and was elected Secretary-General of the Australian Latin American Young Professionals Network (ALAYP) in 2025 after two years of active volunteering.

“Through ALAYP, he helped design a mentorship program connecting newly arrived professionals with experienced leaders. Sergio is a finalist in the Young Achiever Award for the density of his commitment to community while still building his own career.”

“Honestly, I feel very grateful and honoured by this recognition,” Sergio said.

“I chose the CQU Master of Business Management program because I wanted to strengthen my knowledge in business, leadership, and organisational management within the Australian context, while continuing to develop professionally in an international environment.

“I also feel that this degree complements very well my legal background in Colombia and aligns strongly with my purpose of contributing to the community through new ideas, projects, and initiatives that help improve people’s quality of life.

The Latin American Awards Australia 2026 will be held at a gala event in Brisbane on 28 May.

Sergio said whatever the outcome of the Awards he hopes to use his CQU degree to grow personally and professionally.

“After finishing my studies at CQU, I hope to continue growing professionally in Australia in areas related to business operations, community engagement, and organisational development, while continuing to contribute positively to the Latin American community,” he said.

“I am also naturally very entrepreneurial, and I would like to put into practice the knowledge gained at CQU by developing businesses related to passenger transport services here in Brisbane, especially looking towards the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games.”