U.S. Ambassador to Japan William F. Hagerty Hosts the TOMODACHI Initiative Reception and Welcomes Partnership to Enhance U.S.-Japan Relations

 

U.S.-Japan Council (Japan)
TOMODACHI Initiative

U.S. Ambassador to Japan William F. Hagerty Hosts the TOMODACHI Initiative Reception and Welcomes Partnership to Enhance U.S.-Japan Relations

December 6, 2017 － The TOMODACHI Initiative, administered by the U.S.-Japan Council (Japan), announced yesterday an enhanced partnership for next generation leaders in the United States and Japan at a reception hosted by U.S. Ambassador to Japan William F. Hagerty at his official Residence. Over 150 guests, representing donor companies, government, non-profit organizations and TOMODACHI alumni attended the reception, including Minister for Reconstruction Masayoshi Yoshino, representing the Government of Japan, and Governor of Fukushima Prefecture Masao Uchibori.

Prior to the reception, Ambassador Hagerty held a round-table discussion with senior representatives of several TOMODACHI donor companies. The discussion was led by Irene Hirano Inouye, President of the U.S.-Japan Council, and the attendees discussed the role of TOMODACHI in U.S.-Japan relations, and the importance of investing in the development of next generation leaders.

Several announcements were also made at the reception, including the extension of partnerships with FAST RETAILING CO., LTD., Johnson & Johnson Family of Companies in Japan, Honda Motor Co., Ltd., Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group Inc., and Sumitomo Corporation, with commitments through 2020 and 2021.

In his remarks to the assembled guests, Ambassador Hagerty emphasized the importance of social and educational exchanges between our countries to strengthen the U.S.-Japan relationship, and commented, “TOMODACHI has become the leading institution for cementing people to people bonds between our two countries. Today, the initiative has sent over 6,000 people across the Pacific from United States to Japan, and Japan to the United States. TOMODACHI depends on donors and supporters like you. Your time, your energy, and your support are changing lives and strengthening the very foundation of U.S.-Japan relations.”

Irene Hirano Inouye, the President of the U.S.-Japan Council commented, “We are extremely excited for your continuous commitments to TOMODACHI and look forward to our enhanced partnerships. On reflection of the remarkable accomplishments we have made together for the future of U.S.-Japan relations, we would like to extend our deepest appreciation to the donors, government and implementing partners, advisors, and supporters in this room. We will continue to invest in the next generation leaders, providing opportunities and supporting their dreams and hopes for a brighter future. We believe that the TOMODACHI Initiative not only strengthens U.S.-Japan relations, but also serves as a catalyst that contributes and thrives in making a more cooperative, prosperous, and secure world.”

The reception also featured nine TOMODACHI alumni, with two sharing their experiences from their TOMODACHI programs and their commitment to thriving as next generation leaders.

Mr. Kaito Manabe, alumnus of the TOMODACHI Sumitomo Corporation Scholarship Program, shared his dream to be an astronaut and reflected on his study abroad experience through TOMODACHI, saying, “Studying aboard has taught me the importance of diversity and has given me a greater global perspective. My dream to be an astronaut is stronger now with the knowledge, community, and mindset I have gained from TOMODACHI.”

Ms. Ayaka Obata, alumnae of the TOMODACHI MUFG International Exchange Program, told of the loss of her uncle due to the Great East Japan Earthquake and her journey of becoming a storyteller who can not only describe the tragedy, but also the positives that have overshadowed the disaster. She commented, “TOMODACHI taught me that my sorrow from the disaster is an important part of me and I can move forward even with that sorrow in my heart.”

Over 6,700 alumni have participated in TOMODACHI programs since TOMODACHI’s inception in 2012.