Kendal Fritzell discovered the Japanese programme just a week before the application period ended. He thinks that one of the reasons he got accepted is that he takes a lot of courses in sustainability and sustainable economics within his programme. He is also very interested in the subject.
“My interest in economics and sustainability has grown due to the course “Corporate Sustainability Management”, where Pontus Cerin, associate professor at Linköping University, is the examiner. When I took that course, I understood that sustainability and a sustainable economy is something I want to work with in the future,” says Kendal Fritzell.
Ship for World Youth is an international youth exchange programme that is organised and financed by the Japanese government. The programme offers young people with different backgrounds an opportunity to develop their skills and abilities in communication, leadership, administration, and understanding of different cultures.
Personal development and an eye-opener
He spent two intense weeks in the Japanese capital Tokyo. Participants gathered to discuss UNs Sustainable Development Goals. Kendal Fritzell, who represented Sweden in sustainable economics, was looking forward to meeting the representatives from the different countries, especially participants from Bahrain and Oman.
“These countries have a vastly different perspective on economic growth. It was very interesting to hear their thoughts and reasoning and to be able to discuss sustainability with them. It’s not an opportunity that comes along every day,” Kendal Fritzell says.
Kendal Fritzell and Perus former Deputy Finance Minister Enzo Defillipi. Photo: privat
He was enthusiastic about the trip and expected to get an opportunity to get to know young people from other parts of the world, to expand his knowledge of sustainable economics, and to take part in meaningful discussions on sustainability. He also gave a presentation and a case study, where the participants got to cooperate and work together to solve problems.
He says that the trip was a memorable experience, especially to see how open and willing the participants were to share their thoughts and ideas. Everyone did their absolute best to cooperate and to contribute to the group in a meaningful way. It was also clear that everyone wasn’t as used to making their own decisions and to present these in front of a group.
“It was inspiring to see the group supporting each other and creating a safe environment, where everyone felt comfortable in sharing their opinions.”
