Ever wondered what it would be like to embark on a cultural exchange adventure that spans both land and sea?
Tyler Kennedy, a third-year Bachelor of Design (Interaction Design) student, is among the select few who can share what this incredible experience was like in Japan this year.
Ship for World Youth (SWY) is an international cultural exchange and leadership program funded by the Government of Japan. Tyler, with support from the Gadigal Centre, was selected to represent the University and Australia for their 2025 program.
Earlier this year, Tyler and 200 other participants from 12 nations embarked on an epic four-week journey to Japan.
SWY participants started with immersive lectures, tutorials, and excursions in Tokyo, before setting sail on the Nippon Maru cruise ship, where they explored various Japanese ports and forged meaningful connections with local communities.
To be selected for this program meant a huge deal to me, both in getting to represent Australia on a global stage but also to showcase the voices of Indigenous and rural Australians, a side of Australia which isn’t often showcased.
Tyler Kennedy
Bachelor of Design (Interaction Design)
Taking part in the program was an extraordinary opportunity for Tyler to showcase his country and culture on a global platform.
"To be selected for this program meant a huge deal to me, both in getting to represent Australia on a global stage but also to showcase the voices of Indigenous and rural Australians, a side of Australia which isn’t often showcased."
For Tyler, the highlight of the program was the National Presentations of each nation, which took more than three months to prepare.
The showcase highlights the unique cultures, traditions and practices of each of the twelve nations involved, which is a unique chance to be immersed in the perspective of each nation. "Each presentation uniquely showcased the struggles and triumphs of each nation and was a powerful statement of cultural diversity," shares Tyler.
Tyler's advice for students interested in participating in the program? "Go for it."
"It’s an incredible experience unlike any other and is the flagship for international youth programs," he says. "Definitely look online at the Ship for Word Youth Australia web page as well as the Ship for World Youth Australia Instagram for additional information and dates."
"It’s an incredible experience unlike any other and is the flagship for international youth programs.
Tyler Kennedy
Bachelor of Design (Interaction Design)
SWY 2025 participants after visiting Shimane, a coastal prefecture in the western part of Japan's Honshu Island
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