The Griffith Asia Business Internship (GABI) program has officially launched with the 2025 Asia Ready Program, equipping 29 Bachelors and Masters students to take on professional internships across Asia – this year in Japan, South Korea and Malaysia.
Led by Dr Andrea Haefner from the Griffith Asia Institute (GAI) and supported by the Australian Government’s New Colombo Plan, GABI enables students to complete internships with partner organisations in Tokyo, Seoul and Kuala Lumpur. The initiative strengthens intercultural communication, employability, and problem-solving skills while deepening students’ understanding of Asia’s dynamic business and policy environment.
The Asia Ready Program, held both in person at Griffith’s Gold Coast campus and online, opened with an introduction by Dr Andrea Haefner outlining the program’s structure and objectives. This was followed by sessions on Why Asia Matters, exploring the region’s dynamism, opportunities for engagement, and the critical importance of people-to-people connections.
Participants then delved into tailored cultural and business briefings for Japan, Korea, and Malaysia, featuring insights from academic experts, followed by a panel of GABI Ambassadors, who shared practical advice and reflections from their previous GABI internships across the region.
A key highlight was the Industry Partner Roundtable, bringing together representatives from Trade and Investment Queensland, the International Organization for Migration (IOM), and the Consulate-General of Japan in Brisbane, emphasising the importance of global networks and people-to-people connections.
Students described the Asia Ready Program and GABI as both inspiring and transformative.
“It’s a lifelong dream,” Kly Castanares reflected, looking forward to interning in Japan.
Another student, Ryan Millner, studying a Bachelor of Business and undertaking his fifth visit to Japan, said that “despite being my 5th trip to Japan, it will be a new and exciting experience”. Similarly, Tenisha Wilkey added as a highlight, “…experiencing the workforce in a different country. I have been there as a tourist, but it will be so different.”
Dr Haefner said the program continues to play a vital role in strengthening Australia–Asia relations and providing international and applied learning opportunities:
“GABI not only provides professional experience but also fosters long-term connections that build mutual understanding and collaboration between Australia and our Asian neighbours.”
The Asia Ready program is followed by introductory language, cultural and orientation activities and events in-country, before placements start in early November.
Find out more about GABI.
