Meet UNSW’s 2026 Women in Business Ambassadors

The UNSW Business School is committed to gender equity and inclusion by embracing the principles of UNSW's first Gender Equity Strategy to enshrine inclusive practices and enable students and staff of all genders to feel valued, respected and able to be their authentic selves.

To this end, each year UNSW Business School appoints Women in Business Ambassadors (WIBA) annually to support and uplift female-identifying students across the undergraduate disciplines where females are typically underrepresented:

• Banking and Finance
• Economics
• Information Systems and Technology Management
• Risk and Actuarial Studies

This is an exciting leadership development opportunity for 2nd or 3rd-year female-identifying undergraduate students who are studying either Risk and Actuarial Studies, Information Systems, Banking and Finance, or Economics and have a passion for the promotion of young female participation and educational development in these areas.

UNSW Business School believes it crucial for the student voice and experience to be incorporated into the work the UNSW Business School Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) team carries out throughout the year and the WIBA play a leadership role within our student engagement, representation, and advocacy as part of the UNSW Business Schools 2030+ strategy.

The UNSW Business School EDI is honoured to introduce you to one of our 2026 Women in Business Ambassadors: Hannah Liao, Bachelor of Commerce / Bachelor of Information Systems.

Why did you choose a Business Degree? And what led you to study at UNSW?

Having thoroughly enjoyed both my STEM and humanities courses in high school, I had a hard time deciding what degree I wanted to pursue. The Bachelor of Commerce and Bachelor of Information Systems at UNSW felt like the perfect solution where I could develop both my analytical and business interests at the same time. 

Recognised as one of the top universities in the world, UNSW stood out for its flexibility, enabling me to define my own career and shape my studies across multiple disciplines. Beyond academics, I was drawn to the vibrant society culture and countless opportunities to develop strong industry connections, fostering an environment where I was not just growing as a student but into a well-rounded future professional.

How has your experience helped you make a positive impact in your degree, career and/or community?

My university experience has allowed me to meet countless inspiring people from all walks of life which has made me realise there is so much more than just academics. Whilst still determining my career trajectory, I was fortunate to undertake a Co-op internship in my first year to explore my interests through real-world application.

Developing a global lens, I have also had the opportunity to undergo exchange at the University of Hong Kong which broadened my perspectives in an international financial hub and later returned as an Exchange Ambassador where I helped similarly aspiring individuals to do the same. And as part of my information systems degree, I partook in an international study tour to Shanghai as I discovered the endless applications and opportunities for technology. 

These experiences are just several opportunities that helped me better navigate my academic and career journeys which has opened even more doors for me!

How has UNSW prepared you to lead in the workplace and community once you graduate?

My leadership opportunities at UNSW have taught me to lead with drive, inclusiveness and impact. Through vice president and directorship roles in societies, case competitions to volunteering as a Yellow Shirt for UNSW’s Orientation Week, I have been constantly encouraged to say yes to opportunities, be resilient to challenges and lead to create even better experiences for those who come after me. 

With this mindset to strive, lead and give back, I am prepared to continue this ethic into my workplace and community once I graduate to drive even deeper positive change on a higher magnitude. 

How is UNSW Business School helping to improve female representation in business?

UNSW Business School has always put female representation at the forefront of its empowerment initiatives, starting as early as high school through their outreach programs. As a previous attendee of UNSW Girls in Business Camp which encourages female-identifying high school students to learn more about the industry and connect with professionals and now coming back on the other side of this program, I can reflect upon how instrumental the impact of this program has had on empowering students to break the glass ceiling and have the courage to take the first step in male-dominated industries.

The support for female representation does not end there. UNSW Business School continues to actively support its university students to build confidence and connections with experienced professionals who have taken a similar path. The Women in Business Ambassador Program is a key example as we create advocating and empowering programs for both high school and university students.  

What inspires you to champion gender equality and female representation?

Coming from a male-dominated co-ed high school and through industry exposure, the disproportionate gender split has made me realise the large gap that exists even in today’s world. 

From these personal experiences and from all the inspiring women who have actively championed female representation, I believe there are still many things that needs to be done in order to reach gender equality. From simply raising awareness to help the gender split statistically reach 50:50, to bringing the whole society to collectively recognise the equal footing everyone holds in this world.

I am a firm believer that everyone, including myself has the power to help this cause progress forward so that the next generation of women can grow up with more confidence.

Why did you apply to be a Women in Business Ambassador and what do you hope to achieve?

As I reflect on the countless experiences and opportunities UNSW has provided in shaping my academic and career journey, I believe becoming a Women in Business Ambassador allows me to give back and empower future generations. This role offers me the opportunity to help students navigate the challenges of university life, whether it is figuring out what courses are offered at UNSW or learning how to find their network and foster a sense of belonging.

As a fourth-year student navigating the heavily male-dominated finance and information systems industry, I am keen to contribute to an inclusive and supportive environment, particularly for students who feel uncertain or disconnected.