Youthful Energy
The ACCJ Young Professionals Forum opens doors for ages 35 and under.
Fresh ideas and youthful energy are the lifeblood of business and international relations, and the American Chamber of Commerce in Japan (ACCJ) is dedicated to nurturing rising talent through the Young Professionals Forum (YPF). An interactive platform for young, working professionals aged 35 and under, the YPF provides members with opportunities to actively engage in all aspects of the chamber’s activities, including networking, information sharing, and advocacy.
“The YPF is all about creating connections that bridge generations, industries, and more,” explained Melynie Yoneda, a vice-chair of the forum. “Members have the opportunity to interact with high-ranking leaders within the ACCJ, as well as network with peers that they might not necessarily be able to meet in their day-to-day jobs. And ACCJ corporate members are able to get fresh perspectives from YPF members.”
Co-Chair Kelly Langley said that the YPF “has worked closely with the Board of Governors to enhance engagement with young professionals and continue innovating to build the future pipeline of leaders and members.” He added that professional development and human resource challenges continue to be areas where the YPF aims to contribute.
“The YPF is all about creating connections that bridge generations, industries, and more.”
Events such as the Learning from Executives series, held in collaboration with the ACCJ CEO Forum, expand mentorship and training, helping members develop both professionally and personally.
Yoneda said she is grateful for the forum and the opportunities it opens up. “As a young professional in Japan, it is easy to get swept away in your day-to-day tasks or fall prey to tunnel vision,” she noted. Her favorite memory so far was a cross-chamber networking event last October that brought together members of eight foreign chambers of commerce. “There was a palpable energy in the room that radiated from the 80 young professionals eager to meet and network with their peers.” A similar event is planned for September 17.
“If anything, the YPF is a chance to interact with peers from all industries and walks of life,” Yoneda concluded. “Today, we may just be networking and eating pizza, but it is exciting to think that the connections we make will become the future leaders shaping the US–Japan relationship.”
