20 June 2005
Four Monash students have been selected to represent Victoria at an international expo in Japan. They are among 20 youth ambassadors, appointed by the Victorian Premier Mr Steve Bracks, to represent their home state during Victoria Week, part of the World Expo in Aichi from 26 June to 2 July.
The Monash delegates, aged 18 to 23, speak fluent Japanese and come from a variety of backgrounds. Their involvement in the Expo celebrates the 25th anniversary of the sister-state relationship between Victoria and Aichi.
During Victoria Week they will greet Expo visitors, act as guides, promote Victoria, visit schools, help raise awareness of the sister-state relationship and promote cultural exchange and understanding.
The Monash youth ambassadors are:
Arts/Law student Ms Gabrielle Metherall of Brighton who wants to promote cross-cultural awareness and develop Victoria's economic ties with Japan. Ms Metherall, 20, was raised in Inverloch, south-east Victoria and hopes to talk to Expo visitors about Victoria's natural beauty. "Since my parents regenerated part of their farm into wetlands, I have developed a love of Victorian flora and fauna, and the many natural attractions in the local area," she said.
Medicine student Mr Charith Weeraratne of Aspendale Gardens who lived in Japan from the age of three until he was nine, when his family moved to Australia. The 18-year-old feels his background gives him a unique understanding of what is special about Victoria, and he is keen to develop relations between Aichi and Victoria. Last year, he was dux of his school, Mentone Grammar, and worked as a volunteer at a Cheltenham nursing home.
Arts student Ms Jacalyn Snijders of Clayton who is proud of south-west Victoria, where she was raised on a dairy farm in Timboon. The 22-year-old wants to promote the produce and tourist attractions of rural Victoria. Her university studies focus on Japanese culture and linguistics.
Mr Matthew Inglis of Lilydale who is completing his Masters in Palaeontology at Monash. The 23-year-old has a Bachelor of Science Degree in Geosciences and a Diploma in Japanese Languages from Monash.
The Monash students are available for interview before they depart Australia on Thursday 23 June. For further information contact Ms Robyn Anns, Monash Media Communications, on +61 3 9905 9317 or 0417 568 781.
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