JETAA Regional Conference 2012
This year, we had the pleasure of attending the JETAA Regional Conference in Wellington, New Zealand, from November 9 to 11. The theme of this year’s conference was “Celebrate, Connect, and Engage”. The conference began with a fantastic reception at the Embassy of Japan in Wellington. The delegates were warmly welcomed by Mr Fujiwara, Chargé d’Affaires, and JETAA Wellington’s executive committee members.
The conference was filled with many interesting workshops. Delegates from the different JETAA chapters around Australia and New Zealand presented on their respective chapter’s unique history and past activities. Many JETAA chapters have been established for over 10 years and accomplished a lot during that time.
The delegates also participated in an “Amazing Race” style workshop around Wellington, which was a chance for everyone to get to know each other better. Also, in collaboration with Jun Arita, a Japanese graphic designer based in Auckland, the delegates discussed the future of the JETAA chapters and spent time trying to develop a new brand for JETAA Oceania.
JETAA chapters are a great way to not only promote the JET program but to also promote Japan and the idea of international exchange in general. We hope that JETAA chapters remain active and dedicated to this cause.
