TOMODACHI Toshizo Watanabe Leadership Program: U.S. Study Program in Southern California Fosters Leadership and Cross-Cultural Understanding
From August 13 to 23, 2025, the TOMODACHI Toshizo Watanabe Leadership Program held its U.S. training in Southern California, centered around Los Angeles. This year, 20 Japanese high school students spent 11 days exploring the region’s rich history and diverse culture. Through site visits, discussions, and hands-on experiences, the students developed new perspectives on leadership and deepened their understanding of the strong relationship between Japan and the United States.
During the program, the students paid a courtesy visit to the Consulate-General of Japan in Los Angeles, engaging in insightful discussions on leadership with Consul General Murota and consulate staff. The program also included a panel discussion featuring U.S.-Japan Council (USJC) members and leaders, providing practical advice and guidance. During the program, participants visited a variety of institutions, including local high schools, the California Institute of Technology, the Dodgers, Japan House, the Japanese American National Museum, the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank, the Museum of Tolerance, the Terasaki Institute, and the University of California, Los Angeles. These experiences offered students opportunities to explore leadership and their future paths through the lenses of history, science, and cultural exchange. The program concluded with a reception attended by Consul Aya Ishii of the Consulate-General of Japan in Los Angeles and USJC President and CEO Audrey Yamamoto, who delivered words of encouragement to the students.
A highlight of the program was the homestay experience. Students lived with American host families, gaining firsthand experience of daily life in the U.S. and deepening their cross-cultural understanding.
Participant Momoko Sonoda reflected on the communication aspects of the program, including her homestay experience, saying: “I was nervous at first and couldn’t express my opinion well in English. But now, I can spend time with them as if I were part of the family. I think it’s because we kept trying to communicate. My host family and the people I met always listened to me patiently and encouraged me. I learned the importance of expressing myself honestly and continuing to talk with others.”
Another participant, Mirei Yamamoto, said: “We met so many people and listened to their life stories during the program. I really appreciate them because they have given me the confidence to try new things. I was impressed by their strength and willingness to take on new challenges despite the risks involved. There will be many moments in our lives when we have to make decisions, but even then, I want to be able to take on challenges without fearing risks.”
After returning to Japan, participants will share their experiences at their respective high schools and are expected to apply what they learned in the program as future leaders, serving as bridges between Japan and the United States.
