Scholar Habibou Zibo gives back to Australian communities

When Habibou Zibo left Benin for Australia in early 2026 to pursue a Master of Disability Practice and Leadership (Developmental Education) at Flinders University, he also carried a strong commitment to service and a desire to give back to the communities around him.

As an Australia Awards scholar, Habibou is embracing opportunities both inside and outside the classroom. Despite being thousands of kilometres away from home, he remains deeply connected to the values of generosity and community support that have guided his journey.

Each Saturday, Habibou volunteers with the Adventist Development and Relief Program, helping to pack pantry staples and provide free meals to people attending community stalls. Through this work, he supports fellow students and members of the broader Adelaide community who may be experiencing hardship, offering practical assistance alongside a welcoming smile.

His commitment to helping others extends beyond volunteering. Habibou also makes monthly financial contributions to charitable causes that are close to his heart. He donates $30 each month to Care Flight, supporting the maintenance of the organisation’s helicopters and helping ensure vital emergency services can continue to reach those in need. He also contributes $30 monthly to initiatives that support people with hearing impairments, reflecting his passion for inclusion and accessibility.

Habibou’s leadership is equally evident within the international student community. As President of the African Scholars Association in Adelaide, he has played a key role in revitalising the organisation and creating opportunities for scholars to connect, celebrate African cultures, and share their experiences with the wider community.

For Habibou, giving back is a way of expressing gratitude for the opportunities he has received.

“Australia has given me so much,” he said. “The Australia Awards Scholarship provides tremendous support to scholars, and I believe it is important to give back and help others whenever possible.”

Through his volunteering, charitable giving, and community leadership, Habibou exemplifies the spirit of Australia Awards, demonstrating how scholars can make a meaningful difference not only through their studies, but also through their service to others.