Surf lifesaver Leila Nazimi is SA's International Student of the Year International Student of the Year Leila Nazimi at West Beach where she surf lifesaves for West Beach Surf Lifesaving club. Picture: Mark Brake Source: News Limited THERE are few better ways to become part of Australian life than to sign up as a surf lifesaver. Just ask Leila Nazimi. The 31-year-old marine biology student, who hails from Norwich in the UK, has become a star in both the surf and the pool since arriving in Australia five years ago. A recently qualified swim teacher, mentor of undergraduates at Flinders University and Reef Watch researcher, her widespread contribution to the community were recognised yesterday when she claimed Study Adelaide's International Student of the Year award. She also won the sports category. Ms Nazimi spent two years travelling around Australia, doing some farm work and scuba diving instructing, before settling in Adelaide to study. "I've just loved my time here," she says. It's made me a different person, mainly through the people I've met. The culture here is very open and friendly and people are very giving with their time. West Beach Surf Life Saving Club surf sports director Christine Newberry says Ms Nazimi is a "quiet, unassuming person" who is an "amazing competitor" and an invaluable beach patroller, volunteer and role model. "She has won a total of 13 first-placed medals that she has achieved at state level," Ms Newberry said. She's very dedicated to her training, sets such a good example and is an inspiration to other masters competitors. Ms Nazimi has won state level races both in the ocean and in the pool with the Henley Beach Masters Swimming Club. She is also an accomplished student and was a strong contender in the academic categories of the Study Adelaide awards. "I do Reef Watch surveys through diving, so I've found out a lot about what's out there in South Australian waters," she says. I'm particularly interested in small things, invertebrates. Ms Nazimi says she considers Adelaide home and hopes to stay here permanently, possibly to embark on a research career. Education Adelaide chairman Bill Spurr says: "Leila is a shining example of a student who is giving back to the South Australian community. We should be very proud that students like this choose our city. Originally published as Champion student takes to our lifestyle