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In meeting rooms where economic policy is debated and decisions shape economies around the world, ��������alumna Sandy Iro serves as Advisor to the Alternate Executive Director for the Asia-Pacific at the International Monetary Fund (IMF). 

The role places her at the heart of IMF policy discussions, contributing to decisions that influence global economic stability and development. 

It is a long way from the rural community in the Solomon Islands where her journey began.

As the youngest of eight siblings, Sandy’s early life was defined by simplicity, resilience and the steadfast encouragement and prayers of her parents. Though they had limited formal education, they recognised the power of learning and consistently motivated Sandy to pursue her studies.

“My parents always encouraged me to continue learning. They understood that education could open doors of opportunities and change lives, and they instilled this belief in me and my siblings from an early age,” she says.

While her path to higher education was far from straightforward, she became the first in her family to attend university.

“With limited resources, I had to rely on resilience, focus and hard work to reach where I am today,” she says.

After finishing an undergraduate degree, Sandy began her professional career at the Ministry of Finance as a Policy Analyst, before joining the Central Bank of Solomon Islands as a Statistical Analyst. These early roles created a strong foundation for her progression, highlighting her analytical strength, leadership potential and commitment to advancing her country’s economic development.

Driven to deepen her expertise and broaden her perspective, she decided to undertake postgraduate study at �������� (ANU); an opportunity made possible through an Australia Awards Scholarship, with support from the Central Bank of Solomon Islands.

“Without that scholarship, I would not have been able to study at ANU,” she says.

Once at ANU, Sandy completed a Master of Economic Policy, guided by her conviction that effective policy must be grounded in strong evidence and rigorous analysis.

“You cannot make good policies without data-driven evidence. To make a meaningful impact, policy decisions must be informed by accurate and reliable information,” she says.

Her time at ��������strengthened her analytical skills and deepened her understanding of how economic policy effects real lives — from urban centres to rural villages like the one where she grew up.

“I want to help create opportunities for people to thrive and contribute to policies that make a real difference in people’s everyday lives,” she says.

She found strength and belonging within the ��������community, valuing the support of fellow Pacific Island students, classmates, and the Solomon Islands community in Canberra, with who she shared academic and personal experiences far from home.

“The support of friends, classmates and families was invaluable in helping me navigate and overcome the challenges of studying abroad, especially during the difficult period of the COVID-19 pandemic,” she says.

Sandy also speaks openly about the role of gratitude and faith.

“As I pause to reflect on the journey that has brought me this far, my heart is filled with gratitude. I truly believe that every milestone achieved and every challenge overcome has been possible by God’s grace,” she says.

After graduating, Sandy returned to the Solomon Islands and was promoted to Manager of the Monetary Policy and Research Division. She later served as Acting Chief Manager of the Economics, Research and Statistics Department at the Central Bank of the Solomon Islands.

More recently, Sandy reached another milestone when she was appointed as Advisor to the Alternate Executive Director for the Asia Pacific at the IMF. 

The role provides exposure to policymaking at Executive level across IMF member countries and broadens her perspective on global economic issues. It also offers an opportunity to contribute meaningfully to policy advice for her country and other Pacific Island nations, advancing sustainable and resilient growth.

“It is a wonderful opportunity to gain experience and broaden my perspective, not only to grow professionally, but also to bring back knowledge and experience that can benefit my country and the region,” she says.

Sandy says that her ��������education, combined with her professional expertise and dedication, played an instrumental role in these appointments and continues to guide her work in economic analysis and policy advice. 

Sandy’s message to young graduates and aspiring leaders, especially those from the Solomon Islands, is clear and heartfelt. She urges them to believe in themselves and pursue their goals with determination and purpose.

“If you have a goal, dedication, determination and the desire to pursue it, nothing is impossible,” she says, echoing Ally Nitschke’s words: “Shoot for the moon, even if you miss, you’ll land among the stars.”

She is particularly passionate about inspiring women working in sectors where they are underrepresented. Drawing on her experience as one of the youngest members of senior management at the Central Bank of Solomon Islands - a heavily male-dominated environment - she encourages women to trust their abilities and remain confident in their roles.

“You are not there to compete, but to execute your role. With confidence and belief in yourself, nothing should stop you,” she says.

Sandy’s journey from humble beginnings in the Solomon Islands to ANU, the Central Bank and now the IMF is a testament to the transformative power of education, resilience and courage. It shows that with determination and purpose, personal success can become a platform for meaningful contribution - strengthening communities, shaping nations and improving lives.

“I dedicate all that I have accomplished so far to my parents, my family, my friends and my colleagues. Thank you for believing in me, your encouragement and constant support have carried me further than I could have gone alone. Thank you for walking this journey with me and for being an essential part of my story.”