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Fellowship Program

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Fellowship Overview

An Interactive Program for Developing Next Generation Leaders

The Toshizo Watanabe Democracy Fellowship is a year-long, interactive professional development program that empowers emerging Japanese leaders to strengthen global democracy and deepen the US-Japan relationship. By engaging in sustained dialogue and collaborative activities with peers, program alumni, and American counterparts, Fellows build a vibrant network of future leaders committed to creating meaningful impact.

The Fellowship focuses on three main themes: Facilitating Dialogue and Collaboration, Deepening Knowledge of Democracy in Practice, and Strengthening US-Japan Relations. Fellows explore each of these themes through the unique perspective of the Japanese American experience, gaining opportunities to see beyond their own perspectives as Japanese leaders. This approach opens the door to deeper understanding from multiple viewpoints, including those of Americans, immigrants, and minorities in society, and inspires Fellows to think in inclusive and innovative ways.

Each year, eight to ten emerging Japanese leaders are selected to participate in this fellowship. The program centers on a two-week US Delegation Visit, held in the fall, where Fellows meet with leaders in government, civil society, and business to explore how democratic principles are applied in practice and how individuals influence policies and systems to drive change. In preparation, Fellows participate in monthly virtual sessions and an in-person orientation in Tokyo in late June, which provide foundational knowledge of American democracy, government systems, Japanese American history, and US-Japan relations.

After the US Delegation Visit, Fellows continue to engage in activities in Japan, including organizing public programs, mentoring future Fellows, recommending new participants, and hosting events. Through these activities, the Fellowship cultivates leaders equipped to uphold democratic values, advance social justice, and build cross-border partnerships.


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Group photo of fellows at JANM

2026 Fellowship Schedule

2026

  • May through September: Monthly Meeting (Virtual, except June)
  • Friday, June 19, Saturday, June 20, and June 21 (morning): In-person Orientation (Tokyo)
  • Monday, September 28–Thursday, October 8: US Delegation Visit
  • November–April 2027: Follow-up Meetings (Virtual)
     

2027

  • May: Public program (Tokyo)
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U.S. Delegation Visit Content

During a two-week stay in Los Angeles and Washington, DC, Fellows explore issues related to American democracy, including minority representation, civic participation, and approaches to advancing social justice. They also examine the roles of government agencies, nonprofits, and individuals in shaping policy, engaging directly with those involved in these activities. By learning about American society and democracy through the lens of Japanese American history and experiences, Fellows gain a balanced and nuanced understanding of equity, representation, and inclusion in practice.

Support the understanding and appreciation of the Japanese American experience.

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