Whakatāne District Council is delighted to announce that Keryn Sleep, a Year 12 student at Trident High School, has been awarded the Council’s prestigious Global Cities Student Scholarship.
Keryn will travel to Kamagaya, Japan, from 23 January to 5 February 2025 as part of the district’s sister city partnership.

The annual scholarship, valued at $2,500, is open to local students studying Japanese. It provides an opportunity to immerse themselves in Japanese culture and enhance their language skills. Applicants were required to write an essay on the theme ‘How Japan fits into my future’ and attend an interview with the Global Cities Whakatāne District Committee.

Keryn’s passion for the Japanese language and culture shone through in her essay and interview, impressing the selection panel.

During her stay in Kamagaya, she will live with a host family, participate in cultural activities, and represent the Whakatāne District.

Manager Economic Development, Dannielle Caudwell, said the programme highlights the strong bond between the district and Kamagaya.

“This scholarship provides a unique opportunity for our young people to gain international experience, broaden their perspectives, and strengthen the ties between our communities,” she said.

Keryn said Japan is more than just a country she admires.

“It’s a place I see myself living and working in. This scholarship is an incredible opportunity to immerse myself in the culture and take another step toward my goal of becoming an English teacher in Japan,” she said.

Keryn’s experiences hosting a Japanese student in Whakatāne and staying with a host family in Japan have strengthened her appreciation for cultural exchange.

“These experiences have deepened my understanding of the connections we can build across cultures. I’m excited to represent Whakatāne in Kamagaya, share the beauty of my hometown, and further develop my language skills and knowledge of Japanese traditions,” she said.

Keryn will share her experiences with the Global Cities Whakatāne District Committee when she returns, continuing to inspire others to explore opportunities abroad and celebrate the value of cultural exchange.