Welcome to the second edition of the USJF Quarterly Newsletter! This past quarter has been a season of growth and new energy at the Foundation. From welcoming new leaders to celebrating achievements across our community, we’re excited to share some highlights from our network.
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In the Spotlight
New Faces at USJF
The reimagining of USJF to focus more systematically on civil society and social entrepreneurship is well underway. This summer, we welcomed new leaders who bring a wealth of experience and vision to our work:
Haruto Okabe, joining us from Harvard and Bain and Company, will head our Japan Office and drive our social impact strategy.
Stephen D. Bloom, a leading figure in fundraising and institution building in the transnational non-profit sector, has been named Senior Fellow.
Caroline Kennedy rejoins our Board of Trustees, continuing her distinguished legacy of supporting social transformation and justice.
US-Japan Leadership Program (USJLP)
USJF’s signature initiative marked its 26th year in Kyoto this summer and is now seeking the next great class of U.S. and Japanese leaders to join its dynamic network of 550 changemakers. Explore the latest highlights: Apply to USJLP: Applications and Nominations for the Class of 2026-2027 are now open through January 5, 2026. 2025 Kyoto Recap: Experience the energy of this year’s conference through our day-by-day Kyoto report.
Community News
From publications to major awards, our community has been busy making an impact.
Doshisha University’s Koji Murata (USJLP 2000) Publishes Reflections on U.S.-Japan Relations in Chuo Koron
Koji Murata's reflection on U.S.-Japan relations highlights the need to renew human ties between the nations, featured in Chuo Koron's August 2025 issue.
USJLP Delegate Dave Cavell (2025, 2026) Reflects on Hiroshima in TIME Magazine
Dave Cavell reflects on his emotional visit to Hiroshima and meeting survivor Koko Kondo, highlighting the importance of US-Japan relations in TIME magazine.
USJLP Delegate Sera Koulabdara (2025, 2026) Highlights Hiroshima and the Urgency of Peace in USA Today
USJLP Delegate Sera Koulabdara's essay in USA Today advocates for peace through humanitarian recovery, environmental restoration, and moral commitment, inspired by her visit to Hiroshima.
We’re also celebrating the inaugural winners of two new USJF competitions.
Hiroto Fujii of Minokamo City Receives USJF Young Mayors of Japan Award
Fujii was honored as the first recipient of the award, connecting promising municipal leaders under 45. The award ceremony will take place on October 29, from 5:00 to 6:00 PM at the Toshi Center Hotel, Nagatacho.
Justice on a Plate: How Lisa and Pierre Are Telling New Stories Through Food
Lisa Katayama (USJLP 2015, 2018) and her project Gastrodiplomacy for the People, a grassroots food justice initiative connecting Japanese and African American food cultures.
On the Brink: How Local Nonprofits Are Fighting to Survive and Thrive Across Japan and the U.S.
Look into how nonprofits in Japan and the U.S. are navigating financial crises and fostering resilience through innovative strategies and community support.
Giving in Japan Today and Tomorrow | #3 What’s Next for Japanese Philanthropy?
In this final part of the series, look into the future of Japanese philanthropy as legal reforms, new foundations, and global partnerships drive innovation and growth in the social sector.
Thank you for being part of the USJF community. Each quarter, we’re reminded that the strength of our work lies in the people, projects, and partnerships that connect the United States and Japan. We look forward to continuing this journey with you.
— USJF Communications Team
United States-Japan Foundation 1816 Jefferson Place NW Washington, D.C. 20036 USA
