Japan’s relationship with the United States is among the most successful international ties around the world. Alongside the U.S.-Japan security alliance, enduring diplomatic dialogue and cultural exchange are hallmarks of this robust bilateral relationship.
To better understand the alliance and promote cultural exchange between the two countries, Sasakawa Peace Foundation USA is proud to sponsor Kizuna Across Culture’s (KAC) inaugural Global Classmates Summit. The Summit is an engaging nine days of discovery and dialogue designed to cultivate cultural awareness between U.S. and Japanese high school students, foster awareness of the significance of the bilateral relationship, and nurture a collaborative spirit to tackle challenges faced by both nations and the broader international community.
KAC has selected six students from the United States and six from Japan from a cohort of high-achieving participants in their flagship 2016-2017 Global Classmates program. The 12 students will live under the same roof and meet with top influencers in U.S.-Japan relations including government officials, policy makers, and business leaders. The Summit will take place from July 28 to August 5, 2017 in Washington, D.C.
About Kizuna Across Cultures
Kizuna Across Cultures is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to encouraging youth to become global citizens. Their Global Classmates program is a virtual language and cultural exchange program that connects high school students studying Japanese in the U.S. and English in Japan. Students become classmates with their peers abroad and engage with each other through the exchange of messages, photos, and videos on a variety of topics. The 6-month online exchange is an innovative educational program in which the students develop friendships, deepen understanding of each other’s cultures, and improve their language skills.