The Next Generation Summit was a two-day conclusion to USJC’s 2021 Signature series. Taking place virtually on December 11th-12th (Japan) / 10th-11th (U.S.), the Summit brought the spotlight to TOMODACHI alumni and Watanabe scholars, amplifying the voices of USJC’s young leaders, and offered them a stage to share their perspectives on issues most relevant to their generation – from climate change to youth empowerment. The event gathered numerous leaders within the bilateral relationship, including Chargé d’Affaires ad interim Raymond F. Greene, Ambassador Kanji YAMANOUCHI (Consul General of Japan in New York) and many prominent alumni.
Day 1 of the event featured emerging leaders and experts to discuss topics including leadership, sustainability, diversity and education reform. Day 2 honed in on local issues in regions across Japan and offered insights from TOMODACHI alumni leaders. A breakout session hosted by the 2021 Regional Leaders highlighted the impact these extraordinary alumni have made this year.
“I believe that TOMODACHI has a special place at the heart of USJC’s endeavors. This is a great program for the next generation, future leaders of both countries who strive for their dreams and build great bridges between the two countries,” said Ambassador Kanji YAMANOUCHI, the Consul General of Japan in New York, who offered opening remarks at the event. “The TOMODACHI Initiative has been one of the most outstanding activities of friendship between our two countries.”
Thank you to Prudential for being the presenting sponsor for the Next Generation Summit.