On July 18, the Japan America Society of Southern California (JASSC) held its 115thAnniversary Dinner and Gala Celebration at the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County.
It was a special evening celebrating the inspirational artistry of JASSC’s 2024 Kokusai Shimin Sho (International Citizens Award) honorees Yoko Narahashi, the award-winning director, casting director, producer and lyricist, and David Ono, the award-winning ABC7 anchor, filmmaker, journalist, and storyteller. These honorees were selected for their contributions to substantively and significantly enhancing the Japan-U.S. relationship and for their commitment to strengthening the bonds between the two nations.
The JASSC also presented the Next Generation Rising Star award to Yoyoka, the 14-year-old drumming sensation from Hokkaido.
Proceeds from the gala help the JASSC develop new business and cultural programming as well as sustain and grow its legacy educational programs such:
The Japan America Kite Festival — Japanese kite-making workshops that serve L.A.-area under-resourced elementary school children;
Japan Bowl of California Benkyoukai, which prepares U.S. high school students for the annual National Japan Bowl competition;
The Women’s Leadership Counts Initiative Young Professionals Workshops, which strategically support career development of young professionals on both sides of the Pacific.
It was a wonderful evening of recognition, friendship, and celebration for all who attended. Tamlyn Tomita, the talented actor and activist, was the master of ceremonies for the evening. Special award presentations were made by actor, author, and activist George Takei; musician, artist, and philanthropist Miyavi; and Angel City Football Club forward Jun Endo.
Special video messages were received from former Japanese Ambassador to the U.S. Ichiro Fujisaki and award-winning actor Ken Watanabe.