Applications are now open to TOMODACHI alumni from the Tohoku region to apply for the TOMODACHI Generation Global Leadership Academy 2017 that will be held in Tohoku for the first time during March 18-20, 2017.

A total of 63 high school and university students from Tohoku who participated on a TOMODACHI program will be selected to participate in a 3-day workshop in which students discuss the future of Tohoku and what the youth can do to contribute to society while learning teamwork and leadership skills.

The students will be placed into nine groups with each group being supported by a 「カタリスト (Catalyst)」who have carefully been selected leaders in their industry who have either taken their global experiences and focused it on Tohoku after the disaster or have expanded globally from their roots in Tohoku to beyond. These pioneers who have catalyzed on their knowledge and experiences to support the Tohoku Region will not only be mentors for these students but will also be sharing their experiences（語る）to inspire the next generation.

This program is designed for students who have a global perspective based on their experiences in studying abroad in the United States. The students will receive advice from industry leaders on rebuilding and revitalizing the Tohoku region. The three-day workshop will culminate in an opportunity for the participants to present their ideas to various leaders in politics, business, media and NGOs.

Through this program, TOMODACHI alumni will build upon their experience studying abroad in the United States and will acquire the skills necessary to implement their ideas on rebuilding and revitalizing the Tohoku region.