WELCOME

환영합니다

আসসালামু আলাইকুম

WELCOME 환영합니다 আসসালামু আলাইকুম

A woman with dark hair, smiling, siting on a stone railing outdoors during sunset in front of a historic building with grass and stone structure.

My name is Afeeya Akhand (pronounced Uh-fi-yuh Uh-kond) and I am a researcher, writer and speaker based between Canberra and Sydney. My work focuses on Indo-Pacific security, South Korean foreign policy and climate change.

I have worked across government, think tanks and consulting, including through prior roles with the Australian Strategic Policy Institute and Department of Defence.

Drawing on lived and professional experience, I am a dedicated advocate for the promotion of anti-racism and intersectionality. I am currently the Secretary of Women in International Security - Australia Inc. and Head of Research and Policy at Careers in Colour.

I hold a Master of International Security from the University of Sydney specialising in Korean language and was recognised as a Young Woman to Watch by Young Australians in International Affairs in 2024.

ABOUT

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Current Affiliations

  • Emerging Associate, ANU National Security College (2024-)

  • Secretary, Women in International Security - Australia Inc. (2024-)

  • Head of Research and Policy, Careers in Colour (2025-)

  • Young Leader, Pacific Forum (2025-)

Notable Experience

  • Various Research Roles, Australian Strategic Policy Institute (2023 - 2025)

  • Visiting Fellow, Australian War College (2025)

  • Capability Acquisition and Sustainment Group & International Policy Division, Department of Defence (2019 - 2020)

Qualifications

  • Master of International Security with Korean Language Specialisation (University of Sydney, 2022)

  • Bachelor of Laws with Honours and Bachelor of Finance (Australian National University, 2018)

Awards

  • Young Woman to Watch (Young Australians in International Affairs, 2024)

  • IMF/World Bank Group Annual Meetings Global Voices Scholarship (University of Sydney, 2022)

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

Please get in touch via the enquiry form below if you would like to seek a quote for my services.

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Research, Writing & Advisory

I am available to conduct research, produce publications and provide strategic advice.

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Speaking

I am available to speak as a keynote, panellist, moderator or facilitator for events.

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Media Commentary

I am available to share quotes and insights with media outlets.

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Careers Advice

I am available to share careers insights and review job applications for students and early career professionals.