The ASEAN Young Business Leaders Initiative
The ASEAN Young Business Leaders Initiative was set up by the New Zealand Government to strengthen links between businesspeople in ASEAN (the Association of South East Asian Nations) and those in New Zealand, and forms part of the Government’s ASEAN strategy.
The Asia New Zealand Foundation has been contracted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade to manage the initiative, which will bring young business professionals and entrepreneurs from the 10 ASEAN countries to New Zealand for two-week working visits, tailored to each individual’s needs.
Up to 50 young business professionals and entrepreneurs will be brought to New Zealand under the programme, which begins this year. Candidates will be dynamic individuals with the potential to be business leaders in their home countries and within the ASEAN community.
These New Zealand visits will consolidate links between businesspeople in ASEAN and New Zealand, and help advance the ASEAN-New Zealand business relationship.
Who is involved?
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade will select the candidates through its diplomatic posts in ASEAN. Asia:NZ will also work with New Zealand Trade and Enterprise, the ASEAN New Zealand Combined Business Council and other key stakeholders.
Who is eligible for YBLI?
Candidates must be under 40, proficient in English and nationals of one of the ASEAN nations. No academic qualifications are required.
What do participants gain from the programme?
Participants will:
- develop a greater knowledge of the New Zealand business environment
- meet New Zealand businesses working in their sector
- take part in short-term professional development to enhance their business knowledge.
What is ASEAN?
The Association of South East Asian Nations is made up of 10 member states – Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam. It seeks, through collaboration and mutual assistance, to promote regional peace and stability while encouraging economic growth and social progress.
What is the relationship between New Zealand and ASEAN?
New Zealand became a dialogue partner with ASEAN in 1975 and a strong partnership has developed since then. In 2010, the ASEAN-Australia-New Zealand Free Trade Area (AANZFTA) Agreement came into effect, creating a free-trade zone among ASEAN, New Zealand and Australia.