TOMODACHI Toshizo Watanabe Leadership Program: Participants Learned and Reflected on Leadership and Cross-Cultural Understanding in Southern California

The TOMODACHI Toshizo Watanabe Leadership Program 2024 was held in Los Angeles, California in August. This year’s participants, a group of 20 Japanese high school students, spent 11 days immersed in the diverse culture and rich history of the region. Through various site visits, meaningful discussions, and hands-on experiences, the students developed new perspectives on leadership and deepened their understanding of the close ties between Japan and the United States.

On the first day of the program, the participants visited the Official Residence of Consul General of Japan in Los Angeles and met Consul General Sone and his staff to have enriching conversations on leadership. Then, the program had a chance to invite members and leaders of the U.S.-Japan Council (USJC) for a panel discussion which was full of advice for the young leaders. During their stay, they visited several organizations and institutions, including a local high school, Caltech, Japan House, the Japanese American National Museum, the Museum of Tolerance, Second Harvest Food Bank of Orange County, Terasaki Institute, and the University of California, Los Angeles. These visits provided them with a comprehensive view of leadership and potential opportunities through the lens of history, science, and cultural exchange. On the last day of the program, the celebration reception was held and it was attended by Consul Aya Ishii from the Consulate General of Japan in LA and Audrey Yamamoto, President and Chief Executive Officer of USJC. 

One of the highlights of the program was the homestay experience, where participants were welcomed into American homes, giving them a firsthand look at daily life in the U.S. This personal connection with their host families allowed the participants to experience American culture in an authentic way, fostering deep cross-cultural understanding.

Reflecting on her experience, Irene Ozono, commented, “I’ve learned the importance of expressing my thoughts and standing up for myself, even in difficult situations.” She added, “Leadership is about recognizing the strengths within each person and using those qualities effectively to guide others and contribute to society.” 

Hayato Nakamura stated as follows. “The lectures and discussions at the Terasaki Institute significantly expanded my interests and opened up new possibilities for my future. Also by coming to the U.S. and learning about both the good and challenging aspects of this country, I rediscovered the unique strengths and values of Japan. The TOMODACHI Toshizo Watanabe Leadership Program  truly was a chance for all of us to expand our horizons and develop as future leaders.”

After returning to Japan, the participants will share their experiences in the program at their respective high schools. It is also expected that they will be leaders who can become the bridge between Japan and the United States through applying what they have learned in this program.