TOMODACHI-Dow Women’s STEM Leadership and Research Program Concludes with Final Presentation
On March 27, 2025, the final presentation of the TOMODACHI-Dow Women’s STEM Leadership and Research Program was held in Tokyo. Approximately 20 people, including program participants and stakeholders, attended the event.
Representing the participants, Nanami Abe gave a presentation on her experience in the research internship program held at Rice University in Texas from February to March 2025. She shared insights into her research experience in an American laboratory, a visit to Dow Chemical in Houston, and her observations on the differences between female researchers in Japan and the U.S. She also spoke about her future goals inspired by the program.
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TOMODACHI Sumitomo Corporation Scholarship Program 11th Cohort Completed East Coast Training
From March 3 to 8, 2025, ten students of the 11th cohort of the TOMODACHI Sumitomo Corporation Scholarship Program participated in the East Coast Training program held in New York and Washington, D.C.
The students gathered in New York from their respective study abroad locations to kick off the training. The following day, they visited the New York office of the Sumitomo Corporation of Americas (SCOA), where each student delivered a presentation to the SCOA executives on their accomplishments during their study abroad so far. A visit to Ori, a company designing multi-functional and robotic-powered interior solutions, provided valuable insights into entrepreneurship. Additionally, a workshop at Columbia University sparked lively discussions on Japan’s role in international relations and leadership skills.
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2024 TOMODACHI Annual Report
Our Annual Report is now available. Please learn more about our activities in 2024, what was accomplished through our activities, and the program alumni's impressions. Please see the report here.
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Recruitment Open for the TOMODACHI Women’s Empowerment Program 2025
The TOMODACHI Women’s Empowerment Program is a leadership program designed to address the pressing gender gap in Japanese society. In the 2024 World Economic Forum’s Gender Gap Index, Japan ranked 118th out of 146 countries, with deeply rooted unconscious biases and societal stereotypes continuing to hinder women’s participation and advancement.
Over a six-month period, the program will engage female Japanese undergraduate students (from freshmen to seniors) from across Japan. The program pairs students with mid-career professional mentors. Through a hybrid approach that combines virtual mentorship sessions and in-person U.S. training, participants will gain first-hand inspirations and exposure to best practices.
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Alumni Program: TOMODACHI GLA 2.0 - Application Open
The TOMODACHI Generation Global Leadership Academy 2.0 will be held under the theme of “What does GLOCAL Leadership mean to you?”
The program will take place on September 27–28 and December 23–24, 2025, in Onagawa, Miyagi Prefecture, and Tokyo.
This Academy offers a special opportunity to reconnect with fellow TOMODACHI alumni, meet inspiring leaders, and build on your past program experiences. It is designed for young people eager to overcome challenges and grow into leaders who contribute to society from a global perspective.
So, what does it mean to be a “Glocal Leader” in today’s world? Don’t miss this chance to challenge yourself, reconnect with friends, and take a step toward the world. We look forward to your applications!
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Exciting Update: Breakout Session Now Official for the TOMODACHI Next Generation Summit 2025
Registration for the TOMODACHI Next Generation Summit (NGS) has been officially open, and we want YOU to be there!
It’s the biggest TOMODACHI alumni event of the year — a chance to reconnect, meet new people, learn, get inspired, and have fun with alumni from across Japan and the U.S.
This year’s Next Generation Summit (NGS) features brand-new breakout sessions, including:
- A Women’s Empowerment panel spotlighting young changemakers,
- A Sustainability discussion with cross generational leaders making a difference, and
- A hands-on workshop called “Polishing Your Professional Image” to help you sharpen your career skills and confidence.
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TOMODACHI Regional Framework Event: Washington D.C.
Teamwork, Puzzles, and Fun: Washington D.C. Region Alumni Take on the Escape Room Challenge
On Sunday, April 27, 2025, TOMODACHI Alumni from the Washington D.C. Region came together for an afternoon filled with collaboration, critical thinking—and a bit of mystery. The group held an exciting event at Teaism Penn Quarter and Escape the Room DC.
An escape room is an immersive game experience where participants are “locked” in a themed room and must work together to solve a series of puzzles within a set time in order to “escape.” It's a fun and fast-paced way to build teamwork and sharpen problem-solving skills.
The event drew eight alumni, including four first-time escape room participants who embraced the challenge with enthusiasm. Together, the group tackled mind-bending clues and worked through creative obstacles, building camaraderie along the way.
Whether seasoned escape artists or curious newcomers, all attendees enjoyed the opportunity to reconnect, collaborate, and share a few laughs in a memorable and energizing setting.
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TOMODACHI Regional Framework Event: New England
2025 Picnic at Japan Festival Boston
During the Japan Festival Boston on April 27, New England USJC members & TOMODACHI alumni gathered for a relaxing picnic in Boston. The event offered a perfect opportunity to reconnect, meet new faces, and celebrate Japanese culture together. Later, the group explored the festival activities while USJC chairs and TOMODACHI committee members spent some time volunteering at the Japan Society of Boston booth, raising awareness of local organizations. Thank you to all who participated in this event!
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TOMODACHI Regional Framework Event: Hawaii
Learn to Weave a Pāpale Lau Niu with Jaime Abrazado at Magic Island
Looking for a creative and cultural way to spend your Sunday? Join the TOMODACHI Alumni community for a special hands-on workshop with guest instructor Jaime Abrazado on Sunday, June 29, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM HST at Magic Island Beach Park in Honolulu!
In this unique, in-person gathering, Jaime will guide participants in creating their very own pāpale lau niu—a traditional Hawaiian hat woven from coconut fronds. Whether you’re new to weaving or looking to deepen your cultural connection, this is a wonderful opportunity to learn a meaningful skill, reconnect with fellow alumni, and enjoy the beauty of Hawai‘i’s outdoors.
This free event includes light snacks and beverages, and promises a fun, relaxing, and culturally enriching afternoon.
What to Bring:
Space is limited! Sign up now by scanning the QR code or visiting:
👉 https://tinyurl.com/2zh8wb76
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TOMODACHI Regional Framework Event: Hokkaido
Savor Matcha & Wagashi Before Exploring Global Affairs: Special Alumni-Only Workshop
We are excited to invite alumni to a unique summer gathering that blends cultural appreciation with thoughtful global dialogue. Join us for a relaxing afternoon that begins with the delightful flavors of matcha and traditional Japanese wagashi, followed by a casual workshop on international affairs.
Our special guest speaker, Mr. Takanori Nagatomo, an attorney and member of the U.S.-Japan Council (USJC), will guide us through a conversation on the current global landscape—including insights into the latest developments in the United States. He will also introduce the Advanced Leaders Collective (ALC), USJC’s leadership development initiative.
In addition to engaging discussions, we’ll be serving finger foods and beverages, creating a warm and casual atmosphere perfect for connection and conversation.
Event Details:
Date: Monday, August 11, 2025
1:00 PM – Enjoy Matcha & Wagashi
2:00–4:00 PM – Casual Workshop on International Affairs
Venue: COVO (Odori Park West Bldg. 3F, 12-2 Minami 1-jo Nishi 7-chome, Chuo-ku, Sapporo)
Participation Fee: Free (includes matcha, wagashi, finger food, and beverages)
Eligibility: Alumni only
Registration Form: https://forms.gle/4yMkHVFLZvzvq1Ns8
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Save the Date: TOMO-KIN x USJC Reverse Mentorship Session at NEC Headquarters!
We’re excited to announce that our next TOMO-KIN Career Talks will be held on Wednesday, June 25, 2025, at NEC Headquarters in Tokyo!
TOMO-KIN is a space for TOMODACHI alumni to come together, share stories, build new connections, and learn from leaders across diverse industries. Whether you’ve joined us before or this will be your first time, we welcome you to be part of an inspiring evening filled with meaningful conversation and fresh perspectives.
This Summer 2025 edition of TOMO-KIN will include:
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Alumni networking activities
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Cross Generational Panel Discussion
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Light meals
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A casual and welcoming atmosphere to connect with fellow alumni
📅 Date: Wednesday, June 25, 2025
🕡 Time: 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM (Please arrive by 6:00 PM for check-in and to be escorted to the venue)
*Please note that the event time and meeting time is slightly different from our usual TOMO-KIN time.
*As the entrance to the venue is strictly regulated, please make sure that you can arrive by 6:00pm to check in and be escorted at 6:15pm. We cannot accept any late arrivals as the entrance to the building closes at 6:30pm.
*The event must start promptly at 6:30pm.
📍 Location: NEC Headquarters, Tokyo
🎟️ Participation: Free, for TOMODACHI / Watanabe / MAP alumni and USJC members only
*Space is limited to 40 people
📝 Registration link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScNeT00ibimqUL2ddVWz1fETC7joHvFWl8-9m3foCUL0IdF2g/viewform?usp=header
Mark your calendars and sign up early as the space is very limited. We look forward to seeing you there for a memorable summer evening of connection and learning!
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Q&A with TOMODACHI Program Participants and TOMODACHI Alumni: Amelia Stastney
Amelia Stastney is a clean energy policy professional with a focus on advancing the adoption of green hydrogen and e-Fuels in the U.S. and internationally. At StormFisher Hydrogen Ltd., she plays a key role in shaping strategic initiatives around e-Methane, e-Methanol, and e-SAF (Sustainable Aviation Fuel), supporting decarbonization in the maritime, aviation, and chemical industries and other hard-to-abate sectors. Amelia brings international perspective to her work through her involvement in the Japan-America Student Conference (JASC) and membership in the US-Japan Council. She is passionate about fostering global collaboration in the transition to a net-zero economy.
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TOMODACHI Opportunities
U.S.-Japan Council Development & Program Intern
The Development & Program Intern will assist the Development Manager in fundraising and organizing events for business leaders for the U.S.-Japan Council (USJC). Responsibilities include drafting documents in Japanese and English, translation, writing newsletter articles, creating presentations and promotional materials, and providing administrative support for event planning and management. The position is primarily remote, but may require office work and on-site event support as needed.
For more information and to apply, click here.
Interns, U.S.-Japan Council (Japan) & TOMODACHI Initiative (remote)
The U.S.-Japan Council (Japan) & TOMODACHI Initiative are currently seeking interns. The internship offers an exciting environment where interns will be exposed to the non-profit, corporate, and government fields simultaneously. Responsibilities include creating and drafting documents, translation, website management, social media management, newsletter development support, public speaking, communication with program participants, designing presentations and posters, and event planning and operations. Interns generally work remotely, but may be asked to assist with in-person events as needed.
Please note that this internship is unpaid.
For more information and to apply, click here.
Social Media Intern, TOMODACHI Initiative Alumni (remote)
The Social Media Intern will assist the Director of Programs and Partnerships for the U.S.-Japan Council and the TOMODACHI Alumni Coordinator in the area of social media and other marketing and communications for the TOMODACHI Initiative Alumni Leadership Program as needed. Reports to the Director of Programs and Partnerships for the U.S.-Japan Council. This position requires conveying and dispersing information from TOMODACHI Alumni Affairs to the TOMODACHI alumni community, as well as the broader U.S.-Japan Council community.
For more information, click here.
Please send applications to alumni@usjapancouncil.org.
Program Intern, TOMODACHI Initiative Alumni (remote)
The Program Intern will assist the Director of Programs and Partnerships for the U.S.-Japan Council and the TOMODACHI Alumni Coordinator in the area of programming for the TOMODACHI Initiative Alumni Leadership Program. Reports to the Director of Programs and Partnerships for the U.S.-Japan Council. This position requires conveying and dispersing information from TOMODACHI Alumni Affairs to the TOMODACHI alumni community, as well as the broader U.S.-Japan Council community.
For more information, click here.
Please send applications to alumni@usjapancouncil.org.
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