Get to Know the High School Pre-College Program Coordinator at CIEE Kyoto!

初めまして・Hello・Apa khabar・Selamat・Nǐ hǎo・வணக்கம்・السلام عليكم

Greetings in languages I hold dear! My name is Nur Izzah Liyana Binti Mat Nayan, but you can call me Riyana. I’m the Pre-College Program Coordinator at CIEE Kyoto, focusing on HSSA LC programs. Growing up in multicultural Malaysia taught me the value of tolerance and understanding. My love for languages—Malay, English, Indonesian, Arabic, and Japanese—has opened countless doors and shaped my worldview.

“To learn a language is to have one more window from which to look at the world.”

What are your windows to the world?

Are you ready to broaden your perspective and embrace challenges?

If you’re considering our Language and Culture program in Kyoto, this blog might be for you.

A Foundation in Law & Justice, A Spark for Change

Life often takes unexpected turns. My journey began in Malaysia, climbing the corporate ladder as a legal counsel and company secretary across industries like e-commerce, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and real estate. While these roles were rewarding, they left me questioning:

Am I truly achieving my aspiration to uplift others?

Why doesn’t success bring me lasting happiness?

Is it better to live a life of success or one of significance?

Perhaps these questions resonate with you. Have you ever paused to ask if your path aligns with your values and passions? What would you risk pursuing something greater, even if it means starting over?

The COVID-19 pandemic was a turning point for me. It claimed loved ones, dissolved my business, and affected my income, compelling me to reflect on what truly mattered. This period of loss and reflection compelled me to take a leap of faith: rebuilding my life in Japan, where I could rediscover purpose and embrace new possibilities.

From success to significance—that journey begins with courage.

A New Beginning in Japan

Living in Japan has been an exhilarating and humbling journey. Immersing myself in its rich culture, history, and language, I embarked on a journey of growth. My initial work focused on halal market development, linking Japan with Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Arabian Gulf while promoting inbound and outbound tourism. Later, I transitioned to education, designing programs and facilitating workshops.

One of my most impactful projects was fostering cultural exchange between Malaysian and Japanese university students through homestay and internship programs. To date, this initiative has connected hundreds of students, fostering lifelong friendships and deeper cultural understanding.

Now, let me ask you:

When was the last time you stepped out of your comfort zone to connect with someone from a different background? What barriers—real or imagined—hold you back?

I felt the same hesitation when I first came to Japan. Learning the language and navigating life alone in a foreign country brought challenges, failures, and deep loneliness. There were moments of doubt, wondering if I should give up and return to Malaysia especially when I know life in Malaysia will be easier with all the foundation I had as legal professional.

But I learned an important truth:

Every "winner" was once a "loser"

Every "expert" was once a "beginner"

Every "rich" was once "poor"

They all crossed the bridge called “learning”

That was when I realized I would rather cross several bridges of the unknown and willing to be at the bottom learning from others instead of only focusing on one skill I only knew my whole life.

What’s stopping you from taking your first step?

The Joy of Empowering Young Minds

Education is at the heart of my mission. Over the past three years, I’ve visited over 100 schools across Japan’s 34 prefectures, fostering curiosity and cross-cultural understanding promotion (CCUP) through teaching and beyond.

Leading programs such as the SDG International Quest in Hamamatsu, Shikoku, Otaru, and the Hiroshima and Nagasaki Peace Study has been among my most rewarding experiences. Watching students tackle global challenges—like interviewing corporate leaders about sustainability or reflecting on their role in achieving SDGs—revealed their immense potential.

At CIEE, my vision includes creating transformative programs, such as fieldwork peace studies, “Machi Aruki program, mentorship initiatives, and Project-Based Learning (PBL). Using innovative tools like GPS-based treasure hunt apps and language game applications, I aim to turn “The World is our Classroom” into reality which is a perfect fit of learning way for our young generation.

As a Japanese language learner myself, I understand the challenges students face. I strive to develop better methods, helping others avoid the mistakes I made. These experiences go beyond traditional education, inspiring students to think critically, act compassionately, and grow into global citizens.

Lessons from Study Abroad Programs

My passion for cultural exchange began with my transformative experience as a Goodwill Ambassador for Malaysia on the Ship for Southeast Asian Youth Program (SSEAYP) where we sail the ship across all the Southeast Asian countries and Japan to improve diplomatic relations between countries for almost 3-months. Representing my country aboard the Nippon Maru in a fully sponsored program by Cabinet Office of Japan and Southeast Asian governments deepened my commitment to fostering peace and understanding across cultures. That once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, fully funded by the Japanese government, was a culmination of my prior study abroad experiences during my university time as Students Representative Council to Korea, Philippines, Australia, Myanmar, Cambodia, Brunei, China and many more.

Cultural exchange is a two-way street—listening as much as sharing, seeing the world through another’s eyes, and finding the common humanity that unites us. If you’re a seeker of knowledge, an explorer, or someone who values kindness and service to others, I’d love to connect with you.

Join our Language and Culture program at CIEE Kyoto and immerse yourself in a city with over 1,230 years of history as Japan’s ancient capital. Let’s learn and grow together!

Looking Ahead

Starting fresh in a new country wasn’t easy. There were doubts, but each challenge taught me that growth thrives in discomfort and perseverance. The rewards of stepping out of your comfort zone are priceless. As I continue my journey, I aim to inspire others to see the world through a broader lens—whether through teaching, designing programs, or sharing stories. My mission is to build bridges and foster inclusivity.

As you read this, I leave you with these questions:

What steps are you willing to take into the unknown?

How will you open new windows to the world?

Opportunities to grow, connect, and create impact surround you—you only need the COURAGE to seize them.

We look forward to seeing you embrace the challenge of growth. Click 'apply' and join us at CIEE Kyoto!