Transcending Boundaries

Transcending Boundaries is a specialised intercultural learning program that uses storytelling as a powerful tool to address issues of identity, bias, representation, and inclusion. In a contemporary Australian context shaped by cultural diversity and global media influence, this program supports students to move beyond surface-level understanding, working closely with peers in Asia to develop contemporary stories that blend diverse cultural traditions. 

Drawing on Asialink Education’s three-decade legacy, the program creates structured opportunities for students to engage in deep intercultural dialogue and critically examine narratives. This initiative centres on how stories are told, whose voices are heard, and how young people—including those from minority groups—can share their cultural traditions and contribute to a more inclusive society through ethical communication.

Program focus: Using storytelling to critically examine representation, address bias and prejudice, and build social cohesion through ethical communication and cross-cultural dialogue

Student year levels: Customised for three cohorts: Years 5–6 OR Years 7–8 OR Years 9–10

Student grouping: Whole class participation

Student capacity: Between 100 and 500 students

Timing: 1.5 hours per week across one school term (10 weeks) – incorporating 4 virtual sessions and six sessions of guided story development

Mode: Virtual via Zoom or Teams

• Program tailoring to special focus areas e.g., particular subject curriculum alignment or Asian language skills
• Concluding face-to-face session in a state capital or regional centre

For enquiries and group quotations, please contact transcend-boundaries@unimelb.edu.au

People have different perspectives - combining your thought with other peoples’ thought make the story BETTER! - Primary Student

I learned that people from all over the world regardless of differences in their culture, language etc. when all working together can transcend these differences and unite with each other. - Secondary Student

After the program, I observed my students becoming more confident in sharing their perspectives and engaging respectfully with different viewpoints. - School Teacher

Schools prepare our future thinkers and leaders. Classrooms are crucial places for igniting curiosity and shaping global citizens. - Senior Federal Government Official