2023 Leaders and Volunteers of the Year
The ACCJ recognizes exceptional contributions from across its three chapters
The 2023 Leaders and Volunteers of the Year with ACCJ leaders at the December 19 Leadership Forum, which honored their accomplishments. Photo: C Bryan Jones
Each year, the American Chamber of Commerce in Japan (ACCJ) honors members who have shown extraordinary dedication. We congratulate the 2023 ACCJ Leaders and Volunteers of the Year for their dedicated time and effort to the betterment of the community, and their contributions to the ACCJ mission, whether through philanthropy, advocacy, or engaging events.
Leaders of the Year
Barbara Hancock
Chair of the Charity Ball Committee for the past 15 years, Hancock kept fundraising a top priority during the Covid-19 pandemic through her management of virtual opportunities. In 2023, she devoted the same resources and energy to ensure that the spectacular Diamond Anniversary Charity Ball was a resounding success, overseeing every aspect from start to finish.
Hancock’s longtime dedication has not only led to outstanding events year after year, but has helped the ACCJ raise millions of yen for organizations working to improve the lives of those in need, including children and the homeless. She truly embodies the spirit of giving back to the community.
Ryan Watson (Kansai)
As co-chair of the Kansai Young Professionals Forum, Watson played an indispensable role in the group’s, from the initial proposal to the successful launch event in July. His efforts have provided new opportunities for Japan’s next-generation leaders to network and engage with the ACCJ.
He has also been a strong leader of the Healthy Urban Gardening, or HUG, project, which hosts hands-on community workshops while raising funds for Food Bank Kansai. This initiative has profoundly impacted the community by fostering sustainable gardening practices and addressing food insecurities for a greener, healthier Kansai.
Watson’s energy and dedication have created new opportunities for members to participate and get involved in the ACCJ and the wider Kansai community.
Yuji Suzuki (Chubu)
As co-chair of the Chubu External Affairs Committee, Suzuki organized a pivotal ACCJ meeting with US Ambassador to Japan Rahm Emanuel, industry executives, and Aichi government officials to discuss the importance of resuming direct flights from Chubu Centrair International Airport to the United States. He was directly responsible for ensuring that Nagoya Mayor Takashi Kawamura and Aichi Governor Hideaki Omura attended.
Suzuki’s endeavors have set the stage for an agreement to reinstate the route and were therefore integral to enhancing the Chubu region’s economic growth and strengthening US–Japan relations.
Volunteers of the Year
Yoshiko Zoet-Suzuki
In support of the Women in Business Committee, Zoet-Suzuki worked tirelessly throughout the year to prepare information and materials for a crucial advocacy viewpoint on the impact of Japanese parent-teacher association demands on parents. She spent countless hours researching media reports and government websites, as well as coordinating input to bolster the comprehensive viewpoint. Zoet-Suzuki is also responsible for translating materials for an upcoming ACCJ member survey on this issue, and translating the ACCJ privacy policy into Japanese.
Kanayo Okai (Kansai)
Okai was responsible for planning and executing several Kansai Business Programs Committee (BPC) events. She invited high-level speakers and came early to support the staff and connect with participants, always with her trademark positivity. In July, she served as emcee for the Kansai CEO Series event with Karl Hudson of Marriott, and was instrumental in the success of the event.
Furthermore, Okai shares an important perspective during the monthly committee meetings, and her motivation is an inspiration to both BPC leaders and members alike. Thanks to her, the committee will maintain the momentum generated by the successful events she has spearheaded.
Zan Diamantis (Chubu)
One of the Chubu Chapter’s most active and enthusiastic participants, Diamantis is not only participates in the Chubu Walkathon but also serves on several committees. He is responsible for co-organizing multiple events, including a grassroots cherry blossom-viewing fundraiser in April, resulting in new and exciting opportunities for engaging with ACCJ members.
Diamantis is an integral part of the ACCJ Chubu community, and we are grateful for his involvement and many contributions.
