TOMODACHI MUFG Sustainable Entrepreneurship Program Holds U.S. Training and Post-Program Reporting Session
From July 29 to August 6, 2024, the TOMODACHI MUFG Sustainable Entrepreneurship Program held its U.S. training in California, with 16 high school students selected from across Japan participating.
During the U.S. training, participants visited companies and organizations in the Silicon Valley and San Francisco Bay Area, such as the Toyota Research Institute and Japan Innovation Campus. They learned about sustainability, DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion), and entrepreneurship initiatives in the U.S., gaining insights to apply to their own projects. Additionally, participants experienced a ride in Waymo autonomous vehicles, offering them the chance to interact with cutting-edge technology unique to the Bay Area. The program also provided opportunities for cultural experiences and communication in English through exchanges with American high school students and visits to Stanford University.
Throughout the U.S. training, participants had multiple opportunities to interact with members of the U.S.-Japan Council (USJC). USJC Council Leader Ms. Ellen Kamei (ALC’23, ELP’15) and USJC Council Leader Ms. Margaret Abe-Koga hosted the group at the City of Mountain View, while USJC Council Leader Mr. Michael M. Sera welcomed them at the Japanese American Museum of San Jose. Each USJC member not only shared their experiences but also offered words of encouragement to the Japanese students.
In the middle of the program, participants visited the San Francisco branch of Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group (MUFG), the program’s sponsor, and related facilities. They deepened their understanding of the company’s operations and social contribution efforts. Through conversations with many employees, participants learned about the experiences and careers of Japanese professionals working abroad. The students were highly engaged, with many questions raised during the Q&A session, reflecting their strong interest.
On August 27, after returning to Japan, the participants visited MUFG’s headquarters to present their group projects and share personal reflections on their program experiences. Reflecting on the program, one participant remarked, “Visiting MUFG’s San Francisco office during the U.S. training provided invaluable insights for my future. I came to understand the importance of social contribution, and I hope to pursue happiness by developing systems that ensure equal access to education.” Following the presentations, MUFG employees provided feedback, and Ms. Akiko Shikimori, Managing Director, Corporate Planning Division and Chief Corporate Branding Officer of MUFG, offered the students words of encouragement: “Each of you taking action towards the future will help create a better society. We have great expectations for your future.”
