Karla Waterman - Ship for World Youth

Karla Waterman was one of nine Australians selected to travel to Japan to participate in the 'Ship for World Youth' program in early 2025. 

Each year, the Japanese Government supports this program to offer young leaders from around the world a platform to collaborate, network, explore shared global challenges, enhance their leadership skills, and gain a deeper understanding of diverse cultures.

Funding from the Individual Excellence Program went towards helping Karla to attend the program.

The program was predominantly based aboard a ship called the 'Nippon Maru'. After participants had completed training in Tokyo, the ship departed and began its journey around Japan, stopping at ports in Shimane and Shizuoka prefectures. 

There were 180 young delegates representing 13 different countries. All participants attended and hosted workshops, learnt about different cultures, and inspired each other to create positive changes in their local communities.

Karla's group focused on the topic of 'community design utilising local resources', with groups visiting the rural Shimane prefecture to learn about the different ways locals breathe life into their towns. Karla hopes to use the skills she has developed from her experience to contribute to and shape her own community in Dalby. 

We would like to acknowledge the diligence and passion Karla has dedicated to the Ship for World Youth program, and we recognise her incredible work representing the nation. 

The Individual Excellence Program celebrates and supports individuals (or teams) for their excellence in their chosen field. This program assists individuals residing in the Western Downs Regional Council area who are performing or competing at a national or international level.