Following his recent nomination for the Ethnic Business Awards 2008, the founder of HIMA Group Mr John Du won the Initiative Awards of the Ethnic Business Awards 2008. Mr John Du gracefully accepted the award on behalf of the HIMA Group and its business subsidiaries The Global Alliance for Education, Dream Overseas, Dream Overseas International Students Club and HIMA Tech. This victory caps off a stellar business career for Mr John Du. His victory was especially pleasing given that Mr John Du is the first Chinese-born migrant to win this prestigious award in Australia. Mr John Du is also the first winner from the Education Industry in the country.

The 2008 Ethnic Business Awards honored three outstanding migrant business owners for their contribution to the social and economic fabric of Australia. The event, celebrating its 20th year, was held in Sydney at the Four Seasons Hotel on the 18th, Nov, 2008 and highlighted the exemplary contributions made by some of Australia’s leading and innovative business owners and distinguished guests including Premier Minister Kevin Rudd. Please see the following http://www.ethnicbusinessawards.com for more information about Ethnic Business Awards.

Mr John Du sees this award not just as his personal achievement but also a great opportunity to promote the International Education Industry and to gain more public attention on the plight of international students and new migrants in Australia.

Mr John Du said the HIMA Group had grown together with the Australia International Education Industry, which has become the third largest Australian export industry after coal and iron, and the first service export industry earning $13 billion a year for Australia. Mr John Du spoke especially of his confidence of this industry to assist the Australian economy to defend itself in the current economic crisis.

Mr John Du utilised the award to highlight the need for more understanding and caring for the international students in Australia. John was himself an international student 20 years ago and he spoke of his encouragement to all new international students and migrants in Australia.
Mr John Du said,

‘As long as you have a dream, as long as you dare to dream and work hard on your dream, Australia is the country to make your dream come true!’

The 2008 Gala Presentation evening will be televised to a national and international audience. Media schedule is outlined below:

Mr John Du would like to take this opportunity to thank all HIMA staff and stakeholders for your support and services that helped HIMA grow and success.