Study Cairns Management Committee
Office Bearers
Samara Dever, Peace Lutheran College
President
Samara Dever has been the Head of Marketing and Enrolments at Peace Lutheran College, Cairns, for the past three years. As a recognised leader in the international education sector, she has achieved over 50% growth in international enrolments in both the day and boarding programs since 2022. Her success is driven by more than just numbers; Samara’s passion for cultural diversity enriches not only her college but also the broader Cairns community. She believes in the profound impact that respecting and sharing diverse cultures has on a community.
Samara holds a Master of Business (Marketing) and has a distinguished career in Sales and Marketing across the FMCG and Agricultural sectors. Prior to joining Peace Lutheran College, she ran her own consulting firm for seven years, where she first collaborated with the college in 2021. Her strong connection with education made the transition from the private sector to the dynamic world of schooling a natural one.
In 2022, Samara joined the Executive Committee of Study Cairns and, in 2024, became its President. During her tenure, she has championed the needs of international students, focusing on providing them with the best possible experience while studying in Australia. Samara remains dedicated to ensuring the continued growth and sustainability of international education in Far North Queensland, working with key stakeholders and strategic partners to create mutually beneficial outcomes for the region and the international student community.
Taka Kasahara, Sun Pacific College
Vice President
Taka Kasahara’s journey started from a small, rented room in Cairns CBD in 2001 to owning Sun Pacific College, a multi-campus institution which demonstrates his dedication to international education and his positive impact on the local economy. Starting with English classes for Japanese visitors, Taka grew his vision over the years and developed campuses in Kewarra Beach, Brisbane, and Nagoya, Japan.
Taka’s efforts bring significant income to Cairns, with over 1,400 international students arriving in just July and August this year. These students were housed with local families and embraced the Cairns culture. His dedication to creating a vibrant learning environment attracts students from all over, boosting the local economy and supporting Cairns as a top education destination.
Through partnerships with local Cairns schools, Taka connects students at his Nagoya campus which teaches Japanese to students from around the world, including young souls from Cairns, thus, promoting tourism and cultural exchange. His work further showcases Cairns and FNQ’s beauty to Japanese students, opening doors for more international visitors.
Shangyang Guo, James Cook University
Secretary
Shangyang Guo brings over seven years of experience in the international education sector, specialising in student recruitment, support, and marketing at James Cook University. She focuses on digital engagement and strategic marketing initiatives that enhance the student experience and support the university’s growth objectives. Her deep understanding of international education legislation and policy, coupled with practical experience, enables her to address challenges with a strategic approach.
In addition to her extensive experience, Shangyang is a NAATI professional translator. This skill allows her to bridge language barriers effectively, facilitating clearer communication with international students.
Shangyang is enthusiastic about promoting the region and Cairns as an exceptional study destination. She values collaboration to explore, innovate, and foster an inclusive environment, believing that Cairns’ unique charm and opportunities should be shared with students from around the world.
Shelley Lewis, TAFE Queensland
Treasurer
Shelley Lewis has over fifteen years’ experience in developing commercial partnerships and strategies across a wide array of industry sectors. Over the past eight years, Shelley has devoted her career to skills strengthening, both domestically and internationally. As Director for International Engagement with TAFE Queensland, Shelley is responsible for the recruitment, and welfare of international students from over 92 countries, as well as for the development of skills-based solutions for businesses and government organisations.
Shelley has a particular interest in Emerging industries and new technologies (Hydrogen, renewable energy, robotics and autonomous technologies), and has been working with industry partners to ensure that TAFE Queensland is providing individuals with the skills required both today, and into the future.
Committee Members
Ariane Carvalho, Cairns College of English & Business (CCEB)
Ariane Carvalho is a Brazilian-born educational tourism professional who has been instrumental in connecting Latin American students with Australian education since 2003. With a Master’s in Marketing and a Bachelor’s in Travel and Tourism, Ariane possesses extensive expertise in facilitating student placements and navigating the complexities of international education.
Since relocating to Cairns, she has significantly expanded the Latin American market at Cairns College of English & Business, establishing robust partnerships with educational agents around the globe. Ariane is deeply committed to supporting international students, offering vital guidance on cultural adaptation and academic expectations. Her exceptional communication skills and industry knowledge have earned her a reputation as a trusted advisor in the field.
Ariane is also a prominent presence at educational fairs, where she actively engages with prospective students and agents, effectively showcasing the unique advantages of studying in Cairns. Her dedication and passion for student success make her a key advocate for international education.
Mateja Rautner, Migration Plus
Mateja Rautner is the Director and Principal of Migration Plus in Cairns, bringing over 20 years of expertise in migration law and international education. As a qualified education agent, she is dedicated to supporting international students and navigating the complexities of migration legislation. With a background in International Trade, Finance, and Business, Mateja is adept at handling intricate migration matters.
She previously served as a lecturer in Migration Law at the Australian National University and is an accredited CPD Educator with the Migration Institute of Australia. Mateja holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Business and International Trade, as well as a Graduate Certificate in Migration Law and Practice.
Actively engaged in the Cairns and Far North Queensland business community, she is a member of various chambers of commerce, trade organizations, and community associations. Currently, she serves on the executive committee of the Port Douglas Chamber of Commerce and is committed to advancing international education in Cairns.
Janine Bowmaker, Banora International Group
Janine Bowmaker is the Managing Director of Banora International Group (BIG), an Australia-wide business with its Head Office based in Cairns. BIG centres around the International Student market providing various service orientated divisions including homestay, farmstay, study tours, edutourism, volunteering and traineeships.
Janine has been a member of Study Cairns for 14 years, a member of the Study Cairns Management Committee for 12 years and held the role as President for 3 years. She also sits on several tourism boards.
Janine is extremely passionate about tourism and the international education sector and committed to growing this industry for the Cairns region.
