On June 27, the TOMODACHI Alumni Regional Impact for Social Empowerment (RISE) Leadership Program Awards Ceremony was held to commemorate the 2019 Regional Leaders. Though the event took place virtually in lieu of an in-person event, participants were able to connect, celebrate and share heartfelt words with one another.
They were joined by special guests, including representatives from Prudential, Naoko Tsuchimochi from the U.S. Consulate General Osaka, and both Richard Roberts and Aya Toyama from the U.S. Consulate General Naha.
Yoshiaki Hirayama, Senior Officer at Prudential, delivered a commencement speech. Each of the Regional Leaders, including Sakura Hayashi, Ayaha Kanno, Shunsuke Watando, Kirari Miura, Yuko Ishida, Naoya Tosaka, Toshinobu Sasazu and Azumi Nakai, had the opportunity to offer remarks about what they learned from their experience and thank their supporters. Regional Mentors also offered speeches, including Kanako Ishikura, Yukari Yoshimura, Kenji Negi, Hiroko Hiraki, Shinichi Fukunaga, Miki Sakata, Shotaro Kurata and Sarah Arao. Breakout discussions allowed attendees to share and reflect upon their experiences, as well as identify key takeaways and lessons learned. Junko Tsuda, Executive Director of the U.S.-Japan Council (Japan) gave closing remarks.
The U.S.-Japan Council would like to congratulate the 2019 Regional Leaders, and we look forward to their continued participation within the U.S.-Japan relationship.
