Next Generation Leaders Event: Empowering Community Resilience

On November 8, the Consulate General of Japan and the LA Next Generation Japanese American Leaders Initiative held an event at JAPAN HOUSE Los Angeles – “Empowering Community Resilience in Times of Crisis.” The event was organized by the women & diversity and politics subcommittees of the Initiative and focused on the critical work of leaders promoting healing and resiliency in the aftermath of natural disasters.
Special guest remarks were provided by Congressman Mark Takano of the U.S. House of Representatives – California District 39, followed by a virtual keynote address by Professor Keiko Ikeda of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan’s Taskforce on Women, Peace, and Security.
Highlighting the important role of Japanese technology in responding to natural disasters, Mr. Kotaro Wakahara of Kubota Membrane USA gave a presentation on Kubota’s earthquake resistant ductile iron pipe (ERDIP), first adopted for use outside of Japan by the City of Los Angeles.
The panel discussion featured panelists Congresswoman Jill Tokuda (U.S. House of Representatives – Hawaii District 2), Nate Gyotoku (President & Executive Director – Japanese Cultural Center of Hawaii), and Megumi Ishimoto (Co-Founder & Executive Director – Women’s Eye).
Moderator Candice Shikai facilitated a lively discussion with Congresswoman Tokuda and Ms. Ishimoto joining virtually. Topics included stories from the aftermaths of the 2023 Maui fires and 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake and the involvement of the panelists in recovery and rebuilding efforts. They emphasized the importance of local-led responses and the crucial role women played, while at the same time reflecting on the need for growth and improvement in terms of women’s involvement in disaster management and planning. 
The reception that followed featured sake tasting from beverage sponsor Mutual Trading and appetizers from Katsu-ya.