From top left clockwise: Maria, Momo, and Abby

On August 16, 2024, the EPSO Speaker Talks event, held in collaboration between the Language Center and GEE, brought together a vibrant group of EPSO students and their lecturers to explore the theme of “Culture and Language.” The event featured three remarkable speakers, each offering their unique perspectives.

First up was Maria Tamarina Prawati from the English Department of BINUS University. She shared her expertise on Intercultural Communicative Competence, emphasizing how crucial it is to understand and communicate effectively across different cultures. She highlighted the growing importance of these skills in our interconnected world.

The next speaker was Momoko Takai from the Japanese Department of BINUS University. She captivated everyone with her discussion on learning Japanese culture through anime. Momoko explained how anime is more than just entertainment; it’s a window into Japanese traditions, values, and societal norms, making it a powerful tool for cultural exchange. She talked about Japanese culture through the anime “Spirited Away”.

The final speaker, Abbygail Elizabeth Haley, an alumnus of BINUS @Senayan, shared her insights on intercultural communication competencies in higher education. Drawing from her own experiences, she discussed how these competencies can enrich academic and social interactions in diverse educational settings.

The event was attended by 50 enthusiastic students and lecturers, all of whom left with a deeper appreciation for the intricate relationship between culture and language.