Join the Yani Global Exchange in 2026
More than a study abroad program, the Yani Global Exchange is a life-changing opportunity for First Nations students at La Trobe University to explore the world through the strength of Indigenous knowledge, culture and community.
Inspired by the Woi Wurrung word Yani, meaning “to journey,” the program enables students to study at Indigenous partner universities across the globe, building meaningful connections with First Nations peoples worldwide. Yani reflects La Trobe’s strong commitment to working alongside Indigenous communities and is one of the few programs of its kind globally
Students who have participated in Yani describe their experience as a powerful and positive experience that deepened their cultural identity, built their confidence and cultural pride and offered invaluable personal and academic growth.
Hear from a student
Ben Parry, a student at La Trobe joined the program as part of the very first cohort, studying at the University of Calgary in Canada.
Where did you go for your exchange and what made you want to apply?
I went to the University of Calgary in Alberta, Canada. I applied for the Yani exchange program because I wanted to travel and see what university and culture was like on the other side of the earth.
How has the exchange helped you grow personally or academically?
My exchange helped me grow as a person, I feel more confident with my ability to handle new situations. Academically I developed my idea for my honours thesis while on exchange with the help of my overseas lecturer.
Would you recommend the exchange program to other students?
I would recommend the exchange program to anyone who is able to apply. It is an experience that you will remember for the rest of your life and the staff at La Trobe University were always available to help support me with any issues I had, making the experience pleasant and easier than I thought it would be.
How does the program work?
Yani is a culturally safe and responsive student exchange program that offers First nations students a rare opportunity to study a semester abroad in a culturally safe and supportive environment. This is achieved through direct engagement with Indigenous Student Service Units, ensuring holistic and tailored support for every stage of the experience.
To date, two cohorts of Indigenous students have participated in learning abroad through the Yani Global Exchange. While we are yet to welcome a cohort of incoming First Nations students, we are working with our partners to make this happen soon.
Who is Yani for?
If you’re an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander student at La Trobe and you’re curious about studying overseas, Yani is for you.
You don’t need to have it all figured out. Just reach out to us, and we’ll help you explore how Yani can fit into your course. Whether you’re just starting to think about going abroad or already have a destination in mind, we’re here to support you every step of the way.
Join Yani in 2026
Applications are now open to join the Yani Global Exchange in 2026 and close on Sunday 16 November.
- Express your interest
Start by getting in touch with us to let us know you’re interested in the Yani Global Exchange. We’ll arrange a time to chat about the program and how it can fit into your study plans. Email us at Indigenous_studentservices@latrobe.edu.au.
- Begin your application
Once you’ve expressed interest, head over to the La Trobe Semester Abroad page and follow steps 1–6 to begin your application.
To learn more about the Yani program, visit the website.