Three young leaders in Japan on annual business exchange
Young Leaders Chloe Dallaway, Robbie Allan and Craig Getz were selected to attend the 2010 Future Business Counterparts from New Zealand (FBCNZ) programme in Japan, 31 May - 12 June 2010. This prestigious programme provides immersion to young Kiwi professionals into the Japanese environment in order to increase their understanding of Japan and foster future economic relations between the two countries.
The Japanese Government makes the trip possible for the Young Leaders by providing the funding for airfares, insurance, accommodation and meals. The 2010 programme will include a briefing by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan, a lecture on ‘Business Etiquette and Communication in Japan’, and a cultural tour of Kyoto.
Robbie is a strategy executive at NDA Engineering in Auckland. He is excited about this trip as the company he works for depends on the efficient production of high-quality products, a field in which he feels Japan plays a leading role. He also recognises the importance of Japan as an export market both for New Zealand and internationally, because it is the world’s second largest national economy and New Zealand’s third largest export market. What Robbie is looking forward to the most is experiencing Japanese culture for the first time. “I look forward to the sights, sounds and tastes of such a unique part of Asia.”
Chloe Dallaway is a business advisor for Activate, Grow in Wellington, which involves mentoring start-up companies to build business plans. She notes that the FBCNZ programme is highly conducive to her interest in helping New Zealand companies to move offshore. Chloe remarks, “by having a better knowledge of how Japan fits into our trade relations I am able to pass this on to companies and individuals that are exploring this area.” Chloe is excited about attending the sessions on Entrepreneurship, particularly with regard to Japan-New Zealand relations. She is also looking forward to meeting other young New Zealanders with an interest in Asia, building networks with young Japanese professionals and, of course, the Japanese food!
Craig Getz is an investment analyst at Pencarrow Private Equity, Auckland. Like Robbie, he is aware that Japan is one of New Zealand's most important trading partners and is of the opinion that “an understanding of the market and an awareness of the opportunities for New Zealand in Japan is important for anyone interested in being part of New Zealand's export economy.” In general Craig says that he is most looking forward to “wearing a kimono and meeting the other participants”.
