TOMODACHI Kibou for Maui Program Welcomes High School Students from Hawaii in Tohoku
From March 16th to 22nd, 2025, the TOMODACHI Kibou for Maui Program was held, and 10 high school students from Lahaina, Islands of Maui, visited the Tohoku region, including Higashimatsushima-shi, Ishinomaki-shi, Onagawa-cho, and Matsushima, Miyagi Prefecture, to learn about the reconstruction process and also the leadership taken during the Great East Japan Earthquake in 2011. Students interacted with local fishermen, farmers, and community members and participated with TOMODACHI alumni and local high school students.
On March 19th, in Onagawa, the participants gained insights into the town’s remarkable reconstruction journey following the Great East Japan Earthquake. Subsequently, the TOMODACHI alumni hosted a compelling panel discussion, showcasing their post-TOMODACHI program accomplishments. The alumni emphasized the importance of taking proactive steps upon completing the programs and they underscored the significance of staying engaged with the alumni community. Moreover, they engaged directly with participants in intimate small-group conversations, sharing personal experiences and offering invaluable advice. On March 21st, various distinguished guests, including Mayor Atsumi of Higashimatsuyama attended the reception.
One of the participants, Alex Olvera, reflected; “During the visit to Self-Airforce defense Matsushima base, we also learned about the self-defense force and operation Tomodachi, also about their efforts after the tsunami and earthquake in order to rescue others. On that day, we were fortunate enough to have the opportunity to meet, sit down, and talk with a Commander, discussing various topics ranging from his reasons for joining the force and the implementation of sea walls. As a member of Cohort 3, I was intrigued to learn about Operation Tomodachi and the relationship between Japan and the United States.”
