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The United States–Japan Foundation’s signature initiative, the US–Japan Leadership Program (USJLP), is now accepting applications for its 2027-2028 Delegate cohort through Monday, November 16, 2026. Since its founding in 2000, USJLP has brought together emerging and established leaders from both nations to build trust, foster dialogue, and shape a more connected, collaborative future.
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The USJLP Delegate Experience
Each year’s binational cohort of 40 Delegates (20 from each country) embarks on an immersive two-year experience that blends substantive dialogue with personal connection and cultural discovery. Alternating between the United States and Japan, the Annual Conferences mark the beginning of each Delegate’s USJLP journey, introducing them to a vibrant network through curated programming that inspires collaboration on shared challenges and fosters connection through community-building activities and cultural excursions. Every Delegate plays an active role, bringing their voice, leadership style, and lived experience into the collective learning space.
Over the course of two summers, Delegates form lasting bonds with approximately 60 peers in their two cohorts and connect with Fellows (alumni) through interclass programming that links multiple generations of leaders.
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Delegates selected for the 2027–2028 cohort will participate in:
🔹2027 Japan Conference: July 18-25, 2027 | Kyoto
🔹2028 USA Conference: Late July / Early August 2028 | Location TBA
After completing their second conference, Delegates become USJLP Fellows, gaining lifelong access to a dynamic, cross-sector network of more than 570 leaders dedicated to strengthening American and Japanese societies and the world through enduring partnerships and shared purpose.
Candidate Profile
Eligible candidates must hold U.S. or Japanese citizenship and be 28–42 years old as of July 18, 2027. USJLP looks for proven leaders who are accomplished in their fields, comfortable communicating in English, and ready to commit to two consecutive week-long conferences and sustained engagement with the program’s network. The program values a broad range of backgrounds and perspectives, welcoming applicants whose unique experiences contribute to a balanced and dynamic cohort.%202019%2020th%20Anniversary-1.png?width=822&height=214&name=2027%20USJLP%20Applications%20Large%20Photo%20(3)%202019%2020th%20Anniversary-1.png)
Prospective Candidates
Prospective candidates are invited to apply by Monday, November 16, 2026, for the opportunity to join the network as Delegates.
Applicants are asked to submit a CV, interest statement, and brief self-introduction video, as well as respond to several prompts in the application form and provide up to two personal references. All applicants will be notified of results in March 2027.
Visit the USJLP Apply and Applicant FAQs pages for further details.
Nominations and Referrals
The United States–Japan Foundation continually seeks rising leaders and innovators from every sector and welcomes your partnership in identifying exceptional candidates from the United States and Japan to join the USJLP network. Whether you’re introducing a promising prospect or formally supporting a candidate’s application, there are several ways to participate. Please click here to learn more.
