I have had over 25 years association with Japan in both personal and business aspects.
1996-1997: Lion’s Club Exchange – Sasebo
During this year I studied both in a Japanese high school and primary school while living with a Japanese host families.
1999-2003 : UNSW – BA Asian Studies
Jumping straight into advanced Japanese thanks to my period living in Japan, I spent these years learning about Japanese language, culture and business culture.
2001-2002: Kyoto University – KUINEP Exchange
Towards the end of my BA I gained a scholarship to attend Japan’s 2nd most reputable university, Kyoto University, where I studied economics, and Japanese business/culture. I also worked with an English school during this time to develop their curriculum.
2004-2005: UNSW – MA International Relations
In this period I expanded on subjects like International Political Economy, Negotiation and Advocacy, and Contract Law.
2001-2002: Kyoto University – KUINEP Exchange
Towards the end of my BA I gained a scholarship to attend Japan’s 2nd most reputable university, Kyoto University, where I studied economics, and Japanese business/culture. I also worked with an English school during this time to develop their curriculum.
2005-2010 : The Japan External Trade Organisation
Following graduation I worked for the Japanese Government focused on economic conditions of Australia and the Oceanic region, including:
– Highlighting potential trade issues and advantages
– Identifying and assisting potential business opportunities and trade partners
– Maintaining ongoing dialogue with Japanese Government officials
– Event management
– Developing community of information resources
– Developing and maintaining a database of key/relevant information
– Web development and online branding of the Sydney JETRO office
2013-2014: Working and Living in Japan Briefings
Gave presentations preparing expats for the Japanese social and business culture.
Ongoing: Japanese family
Having married into a Japanese family soon after University, my association with Japan is unlikely to end any time soon. Between my wife and 2 son’s, we speak at least 60% Japanese at home, which has kept my fluency quite current. While I wish my Kanji level was at the same place as when I took the Level 2 Proficiency Exam in 2003, my spoken Japanese is still fluent.
logo1200_630
024 Nagano Snow 12-23-2003
IMG_0004
IMG_5804.resized
20150918_145115
20150921_144601
20151012_180022