Friendships, travel, and learning: Mayu’s story in Australia

A spark of curiosity about her Australian tutor’s homeland first brought Mayu Tsujikawa to Queensland as a wide-eyed exchange student. Years later, she found herself back in the land down under, this time to pursue her dream career in tourism.

“My high school English tutor was from Brisbane, and it intrigued me to visit and experience where she was from,” she said.

That spark led Mayu to join a one-year exchange program at the University of Queensland during her tertiary studies in Japan.

“The weather is amazing, and the people are warm and always kind. It's easy to make friends,” she said.

The experience left a lasting impression, but it wasn’t until over a decade later, after graduating and working in Japan, that Mayu found herself at a crossroads in her career.

She decided to return to Australia, this time as a student at TAFE Queensland, pursuing a Diploma of Travel and Tourism Management (SIT50122 | CRICOS: 112776J) at the South Bank campus.

“It was great to be back again after so long,” she said.

The course wasn’t without its challenges, but everything clicked when Mayu stepped into the industry to complete the required 70 hours of unpaid work placement.

“At first, the course was challenging because there were finance and leadership elements, but once I started my Vocational Placement, I realised those topics are really important to working in the tourism sector,” she said.

Mayu’s placement was at Brisbane International Airport, where she worked as an ambassador, greeting and assisting travellers.

“My job was to greet people with a smile and answer all their questions which helped them have a positive start to their visit to Brisbane,” she said.

Her role wasn’t just about logistics; it was about connection.

“I’ve seen many heartwarming welcomes with bouquets of flowers, hand-made welcome signs, and even traditional New Zealand Haka dances. The airport is full of hugs and kisses, happy and nervous faces, beginnings and reunions.”

Her multicultural team, speaking over 20 languages, became her support network.

“We could always rely on each other, if one person didn’t know the answer, someone else always stepped in. We truly work as a team,” Mayu said.

Mayu’s efforts didn’t go unnoticed. Nanita Palencia, Airport Operations Manager at Brisbane Airport and The Tourism Group, praised her contributions.

“Mayu has been an absolute delight. Her incredible support, particularly during flights to Osaka and Tokyo, has been invaluable. We’re excited to see what amazing things she will accomplish next,” said Nanita.

Kate O’Mara-Smith, Tourism Team Leader at TAFE Queensland said vocational placement is important and provides students with the opportunity to work in a dynamic and busy environment.

“It allows students to apply knowledge and skills learnt, and TAFE Queensland works with many industry partners to ensure our students are work ready when they graduate,” she said.

Now a graduate, Mayu is preparing to return to Japan and step into her career in tourism, armed with practical skills, a glowing letter of recommendation, and unforgettable memories.

“I really appreciate TAFE Queensland for teaching me practical skills. Even finance and leadership have proven useful in my work and daily life. I’ve realised that everything is connected and important,” Mayu said.

“I can use my experience as an ambassador on my resume, and I have received a letter of recommendation from the program.”

Her time at TAFE Queensland may be over, but Mayu’s journey in tourism is just beginning, carrying with her the lessons, friendships, and experiences that started under the Queensland sun.