WHAT IS SWY?

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In a rapidly globalising world, cross-cultural communication and cooperation are indispensable in every field.

 

The Ship for World Youth (SWY) is a unique international youth exchange and leadership program that allows participants to challenge their comfort zones while learning leadership and cross-cultural communication skills.  

 

Supported by the Government of Japan, this program provides youth from around the world the opportunity to come together to discuss common global issues, experience cultural exchange, and join seminars and workshops conducted by experts and the participants themselves. Participants also develop their skills through active involvement in running seminars, participating in on-board committees and engaging with different cultures.

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By broadening global views and strengthening the spirit of international cooperation, the SWY program aims to cultivate the next generation of leaders who are ready to lead and contribute to globalised and diverse communities.

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The SWY program changes every year. In recent years the program has included: 

• Cultural exchange in a Japanese prefecture 

• On-shore training in Tokyo - mixture of lectures, tutorials and excursions 

• A multi-week voyage onboard the Nippon Maru cruise ship - continuing study and visiting various Japanese or global ports 

 

We are looking for Australians who: 

• are leaders in their community 

• are dedicated to building social cohesion 

• are passionate about developing stronger global connections 

• work well in groups and under pressure  

• have a desire to learn about and engage with other cultures 

• will represent Australia to the highest degree 

• are emotionally intelligent and self-reflective 

• will participate fully in all aspects of the SWY program 

• commit to ongoing engagement with the alumni after completion of the program 

 

  

How often does the program run? 

The program is run each year by the Japanese Cabinet Office who are responsible for organising the entire program and inviting various countries to participate.  Each year, the Japanese Government invites the governments of other countries to send delegations. The participating countries vary each year with a mix of countries from various regions of the world. 

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To be alerted when applications next open, subscribe to our mailing list here.

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Pre-departure preparation 

Participating youth are required to attend a weekend (Friday to Sunday) National Workshop in Canberra. It is important you plan for this if you wish to attend SWY. This time is used to prepare for the program and for you to get to know the rest of the Australian delegation. Costs to attend the National Workshop are to be covered by the participants. 

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You will also be expected to contribute at least 5 hours per week helping the delegation prepare prior to departure. This includes activities such as the organisation of uniforms and preparing materials for onboard seminars/presentations. It is important that you are able to contribute to the delegation's preparation before departure. 

 

Costs 

The Government of Japan very generously covers most expenses including flights, living expenses in Japan and the voyage aboard the Nippon Maru. Participants are responsible for some costs, including the following: 

• Travel and accommodation to the National Workshop in Canberra 

• Uniforms 

• Small gifts for other participants, host families and international representatives 

• Travel insurance for luggage and personal items (optional) 

• Spending money and other personal expenses 

 

SWY Australia assist the delegation to fundraise to contribute to these expenses. Participants are also encouraged to undertake individual fundraising in the lead up to the program.