Young Professionals Leadership Delegation

Overview

The U.S.-Japan Council Young Professional Leadership Delegation (YPLD) brings together 10-12 emerging leaders to deepen their understanding of Japan’s economy, business landscape, and society. Through high-level meetings and site visits, delegates will gain firsthand insights into key sectors and hear directly from Japanese C-suite executives about top-of-mind issues shaping Japan’s future. 

The program also provides a unique opportunity to build meaningful, long-term relationships with young professionals in the U.S. and Japan. Scheduled for October 12–13, the 2026 YPLD programming precedes the U.S.-Japan Council’s Annual Conference, which will be held on October 14–15, 2026.

2026 Schedule and Programming

This opportunity offers participants:

Expenses Included

• ✓ Coverage for two nights of lodging (October 12 & 13)
• ✓ Meals and transportation (October 12 & 13)
• ✓ Registration for Annual Conference (October 14 & 15)

Criteria & Eligibility

Candidates for the Young Professionals Leadership Delegation are encouraged to apply if you are planning to attend the U.S.-Japan Council’s 2026 Annual Conference in Tokyo, Japan. Participants will be expected to pay for travel and partial lodging. 

This program is open to candidates of all backgrounds; Japanese heritage or ancestry is not a requirement for eligibility. Alumni of USJC’s leadership programs are highly encouraged to apply. Candidates should be young-professionals who meet the following criteria:

• Dedication to U.S.-Japan Relations: Supported by professional achievements and an extensive professional network across your industry or community.
• Leadership Excellence: A track record of success in professional or community leadership roles.
• Continued Engagement: Commitment to remain actively involved in supporting USJC’s programs, initiatives and strategic vision. 
• USJC Membership: 2+ years active membership 
• Age: 30 – 40 years-old, must not be older than 40 at the time of Annual Conference
• Citizenship: U.S. or Japan citizenship or legal permanent resident

Important Dates

How to Apply

Applicants must complete the online application form and submit the following materials. A PDF packet including documents 1-3 will be required, including a short introductory video. All materials must be in English.

1. 1
   Resume & LinkedIn Page

   Current resume and a link to your LinkedIn profile.
2. 2
   Professional Summary (max 500 words)

   Address the following:

   • How would YPLD impact your professional career and organization, especially as you meet with top executives in Tokyo?
   • What opportunities or outcomes would you like to pursue as a result of being part of this year’s YPLD? This includes any current or future business, community, or government engagements that your current organization may want to pursue.
3. 3
   One Letter of Recommendation

   Submit via the application link or email directly to Maia Ito at [email protected].
4. 4
   Short Introductory Video (max 3 minutes)

   Address the following:

   • Tell us about yourself.
   • Why do you want to be part of the YPLD cohort?

Frequently Asked Questions