Nurturing Next Generation Leaders Connecting Japan and the United States: The TOMODACHI Sumitomo Corporation Scholarship Program Selects Ten Students for 9th Year Cohort
The TOMODACHI Initiative, operated by the U.S.–Japan Council (Japan) (Office: Chiyoda-ku,
Tokyo; President and CEO: Suzanne Basalla), and Sumitomo Corporation (Head Office:
Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo; Representative Director, President and Chief Executive Officer: Masayuki
Hyodo) have selected ten (10) Japanese students as the participants of the 9 th TOMODACHI
Sumitomo Corporation Scholarship Program (hereafter, referred to as “the program”) on July
2022.
At a scholarship award ceremony held on July 1, Mr. Masayuki Hyodo, Representative Director,
President, and Chief Executive Officer of Sumitomo Corporation, awarded ten (10) scholarships
to each participant. Each student announced their aspirations for studying abroad (e.g., I want
to grow myself as a next-generation leader through interaction with many people who have
diverse backgrounds.). In addition, the 9 th cohort made a new connection to inspire and support each other to succeed in their international study.
（Award Ceremony and 9th Scholarship students group photo）
The program is one of the Educational Programs supported by the TOMODACHI Initiative, led
by the U.S. Embassy and the U.S.-Japan Council. It was launched in 2014.
Through support from Sumitomo Corporation to study abroad in the United States, the program
provides a scholarship of 1.8 million yen per year for each student to participate in exchange
programs at universities across the United States.
Moreover, during their study abroad period, students are offered various opportunities, including
training by the Sumitomo Corporation of Americas New York Head Office. Through these
opportunities, students broaden their global perspectives and learn leadership skills.
Furthermore, volunteer directors and employees of the Sumitomo Corporation group support
the students on a one-on-one basis as mentors (*1) in order to help them achieve their goals
and plans while studying abroad.
Fifty-seven (57) students have completed study abroad experiences from the past eight cohorts
of participants. Those who have already begun their careers frequently contribute to the
program as alumni (*2), guiding study abroad students in subsequent years. The U.S.-Japan
Council and Sumitomo Corporation continue to support university students through the program
to help foster the next generation of global leaders connecting the United States and Japan.
*1: ‘Mentor’ refers to the advisers and people whom the students can consult with.
*2: ‘Alumni’ refers to past participants of the TOMODACHI programs.
About the TOMODACHI Initiative
The TOMODACHI Initiative is a public-private partnership between the U.S.-Japan Council
and the U.S. Embassy in Tokyo, with support from the Government of Japan. Born out of
support for Japan’s recovery from the Great East Japan Earthquake, TOMODACHI invests
in the next generation of Japanese and American leaders through educational and cultural
exchanges and leadership programs. The initiative seeks to foster a “TOMODACHI
Generation” of young American and Japanese leaders who are committed to and engaged
in strengthening U.S.-Japan relations, appreciate each other’s countries and cultures, and
possess the global skills and mindsets needed to contribute to and thrive in a more
cooperative, prosperous, and secure world. Visit us at www.tomodachi.org
