Leading the Way
The ACCJ recognizes exceptional contributions from across its three chapters
Each year, the American Chamber of Commerce in Japan (ACCJ) honors members who have shown extraordinary dedication. On December 5, six recipients were recognized for their work during 2024 by ACCJ President Victor Osumi at the chamber’s year-end Networking for the Future event at the Hilton Tokyo in Shinjuku.
Leaders of the Year
Tomoki Fukasawa
The ACCJ sincerely thanks Tomoki Fukasawa for his exemplary leadership of the Young Professionals Forum (YPF).
Since becoming co-chair in 2023, he has implemented a three-point plan for the YPF focused on consistency, engagement, and growth. The strategy was a great success in 2024, leading to seven sold-out events that attracted nearly 250 attendees.
Through his leadership and determination to support the next generation of leaders, Fukasawa has strengthened the chamber’s presence in the business community and created new opportunities for young professionals to get involved.
Nao Geisler (Chubu)
The ACCJ extends heartfelt thanks to Nao Geisler for her service as chair of the Chubu Community Service Committee.
Her leadership skills were critical to the success of May’s ACCJ/NIS Walkathon, which raises funds each year for local charities. While the event itself is just one day, its success is built on months of planning, logistics, and negotiations.
Geisler’s hard work this year led to a 15-percent increase in funds raised, enabling the ACCJ and co-organizer Nagoya International School to touch even more lives in the Chubu region.
Chihiro Kijima (Kansai)
The ACCJ recognizes Chihiro Kijima for her exceptional leadership as co-chair of the Kansai Diversity and Inclusion Committee.
As a key member of the Kansai Chapter, Kijima has guided the chamber’s D&I efforts at a critical time for the movement. Her leadership has ensured that members hear from dynamic speakers on topics that resonate with a diverse audience.
Kijima’s deep experience in event planning has extended the ACCJ’s influence in the Kansai region.
Volunteers of the Year
Mao Kawakami
The ACCJ expresses its sincerest appreciation to Mao Kawakami for her enthusiastic support of the Women in Business (WIB) Committee.
Kawakami’s excitement and dependability have brought fresh energy to the Breakfast in the Boardroom series.
By eagerly attending each briefing session with speakers, conducting impeccable research, and preparing spot-on invitations, she has been integral to the success of the series. Her passion for the WIB committee serves as an inspiration to others.
Natsuko Gomi (Chubu)
The ACCJ is indebted to Natsuko Gomi for her dedication to the Chubu Children’s Fund, which provides university and vocational-school scholarships to young adults transitioning out of orphanages.
Gomi’s commitment goes far beyond the typical volunteer role. Her ability to connect with students on a personal level has made a significant impact on their confidence and readiness to face the challenges of adulthood.
As she continues to streamline operations, Gomi’s passion for the fund has ensured that it can reach more students and provide the support they need.
Kishin Okada (Kansai)
The ACCJ expresses its deepest gratitude to Kishin Okada for his efforts to foster acceptance and energize young members as part of the Kansai Diversity and Inclusion Committee.
Okada has been instrumental to the success of the Kansai Chapter’s signature leadership series and the Kansai D&I Summit. And as a guest speaker for a Kansai Young Professionals event, he has also inspired the next generation of leaders.
An inclusive voice, Okada brings people together and forges new ideas while amplifying the ideas of young professionals.
