Sharing Language, Connecting Cultures: ILLA Welcomes Cohort 2 2026

The Indonesian Language Learning Ambassadors (ILLA) program continues its 2026 journey by welcoming Cohort 2, a group of 80 new ambassadors preparing to share Bahasa Indonesia and Indonesian culture with communities across Australia.

Ahead of their placements across 51 schools and three universities, ambassadors will participate in a three-day online induction program that introduces Australian classroom culture, student engagement, safeguarding and practical strategies for teaching Bahasa Indonesia and sharing Indonesian culture in diverse learning environments. The program will also provide opportunities to learn from educators, host institutions and former ILLA ambassadors, helping participants feel prepared and connected before they begin their placements.

Past ambassadors continue to reflect on the impact of the program. Kingkin Fitoriani from the University of South Australia shared:

‘Participating in the ILLA program was meaningful, working with students across year levels. Year 8 showed kindness through handmade gifts; Year 9 engaged with thoughtful feedback; Year 10–11 enjoyed slang cooking sessions; and Year 12 used Bahasa Indonesia confidently in exams.’

Hafiz Anshari from The University of Melbourne also reflected on his experience:

‘A key highlight of my ILLA implementation was students’ growing enthusiasm through hands-on cultural activities. Traditional games like Lompat Tali and Bola Bekel sparked deep engagement, extending into breaks and home sharing. The strong connections made the farewell especially meaningful.’

As Cohort 2 prepares to commence placements this semester, the program looks forward to another chapter of language learning, cultural exchange and lasting connections between Indonesian ambassadors and Australian communities.