Networking for Tomorrow
The ACCJ closed out 2024 with its final signature event of the year, an exciting night of networking and honors in the Hilton Tokyo's Kiku Ballroom.
The ACCJ closes out 2024 with an evening of honors and connections
The Kiku Ballroom at the Hilton Tokyo in Shinjuku erupted on December 5 with vivid lights, pulsing sounds, and the chatter of future business deals being made as the American Chamber of Commerce in Japan (ACCJ) closed out 2024 with its final signature event of the year.
ACCJ President Victor Osumi took to the stage to the beats of the Top Gun theme as he welcomed everyone to Bridging to the Future: Networking for Tomorrow, a cocktail-style reception that brought together more than 260 ACCJ members and guests.
“This event is a moment to recognize our achievements, strengthen our network, and express gratitude to all of you here—and also those not here tonight—who made 2024 a success,” said Osumi.
Next, to mark the incredible achievements of chamber members, ACCJ Vice President Sarah Bader, Vice President–Kansai Jiro Kawakami, and Vice President–Chubu Robert Roche joined Osumi on stage to present the 2024 ACCJ Leaders and Volunteers of the Year awards (more on page 13).
“It has been a tremendous year full of accomplishments and connections,” said Osumi as he closed out the presentation segment of the evening. “As we look to the future, let’s continue to forge partnerships and bring progress and grace to a future of excellence.”
With formalities concluded, attendees indulged in the Hilton Tokyo’s culinary artistry while enjoying the beats of DJ Milky B and forming new connections in Japan’s vibrant business community.
Leading the Way
Meet the 2024 ACCJ Leaders and Volunteers of the years, recognized for extraordinary dedication to the chamber's mission.
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.
United to Inspire Inclusion
On its 10th anniversary, the Kansai D&I Summit emphasized the importance of unity and collaboration in driving meaningful change.
The ACCJ Kansai Chapter marks a decade of driving business through diversity
The American Chamber of Commerce in Japan (ACCJ) Kansai Chapter celebrated a milestone in its advocacy efforts on November 21 at the 10th anniversary Diversity and Inclusion (D&I) Summit, which took place at Oriental Hotel Kobe.
Host Mie Kitano, co-chair of the Kansai Diversity and Inclusion Committee, welcomed the 130 in-person and 30 virtual guests. She shared how, over the past decade, many positive changes have been achieved, but stressed that there still a long way to go on the journey to true D&I.
“This year’s theme, United to Inspire Inclusion, emphasizes the importance of unity and collaboration in driving meaningful change,” she said. Highlighting the critical role of inclusion in creating an prosperous future for all, she encouraged all participants to actively engage in conversations aimed at realizing equality.
Jason R. Cubas from the US Consulate General Osaka-Kobe then delivered opening remarks.
“I’m pleased to join you for the 10th anniversary of this D&I summit under this year’s theme, United to Inspire Inclusion,” said the consul general. “This theme speaks to something essential. D&I must be woven into the fabric of our organizations and industries as core components of the larger strategies and operations.”
Noting that one of the four key pillars in the US national travel and tourism strategy is to ensure that tourism experiences are diverse, inclusive, and accessible, Cubas cited D&I as a guiding principle that can elevate entire industries by shaping how we engage the world.
“An inclusive approach allows us to understand our colleagues, clients, and communities more deeply, and to unlock new markets and innovate in ways that would otherwise remain out of reach.”
“In Kansai, we saw an inspiring example of this principle in action [in October], when Osaka hosted the International LGBTQ+ Travel Association for their global conference,” he shared. “It was the first time this was held in Asia, and it wasn’t just a milestone for tourism; it was a testament to how an industry’s inclusive practices can drive growth, innovation, and new opportunities.
“Across all sectors, organizations have the opportunity to integrate D&I into their strategic vision. Whether it’s the tourism industry committing to new ways to welcome people of all backgrounds or technology companies designing products accessible to everyone, D&I can and should be foundational to every facet of how we operate,” he continued. “An inclusive approach allows us to understand our colleagues, clients, and communities more deeply, and to unlock new markets and innovate in ways that would otherwise remain out of reach.”
Panel Discussion
Following Cubas’s remarks, Eli Lilly Japan K.K. President and Representative Director Simone Thomsen moderated a panel with three leaders from different industries:
- Irina Menshikova, president of Amway Japan G.K.
- Mari Nogami, president and representative director of Haleon Japan K.K.
- Victor Osumi, managing director and president-Japan of Delta Air Lines, Inc.
Thomsen, who is also the ACCJ Kansai governor, kicked off the discussion by asking each panelist to recount one success story from their company that has inspired inclusion and driven business.
Nogami, who was the first chair of the Kansai Women in Business Committee—now known as the Diversity & Inclusion Committee—shared how Haleon approaches diversity as a new company. The consumer health brand was spun off from GSK in 2022.
“As an independent company newly listed on the New York and London exchanges, having gender diversity is almost mandatory,” she explained. “The company already had made an external commitment that at least 50 percent of the board, executive leadership team, and the business unit leadership would be female. The board is already 40 percent female and the executive team is 47 percent female. That is a serious commitment. We do it not only for welfare; we do it because it really drives business.”
Next, Menshikova talked about Amway’s Women’s Inclusion Network, which champions flexible workstyles and drives the progression of female leadership. She was leading Amway’s operations in Ukraine, Russia, and Central Asia before arriving in Japan in 2022.
“This is a country with a lot of challenges in diversity and inclusion, so it’s my personal passion to drive this agenda,” she said. “Amway, as a leading company in the direct sales industry and one of the biggest private American companies which has always been focused on multicultural, multi-generational and disability [issues] gives me the opportunity to execute that agenda.”
Currently, Amway in Japan has employees from 16 countries, while 62 percent of its workforce here is female. Cultural matters, however, may prevent women from advancing their careers Menshikova noted. “So the flexible lifestyles help them to balance their personal responsibilities with their job responsibilities.
Lastly, Osumi, who is also ACCJ president, explained the importance of sourcing from partners who support diversity and described how Delta’s approach extends D&I to customers and the community.
“We collected hundreds of images that anyone can download free of charge to show how to accommodate a person with a disability,” he said. “We have more than 200,000 wheelchairs now in place and have an offering tailored especially to customers who use wheelchairs.”
The Atlanta-based company is also supporting entrepreneurship, creating almost $559 million of revenue for Black-owned businesses as well as women in business.
Challenges and Solutions
As the discussion continued, Eli Lilly’s Thomsen pointed out that D&I is a complex, ongoing journey and asked the panelists about the challenges they face and the solutions they are finding.
An example given by Osumi is how cultural differences impact perceptions of D&I among Japanese employees, and how life events such as pregnancy can lead to unintentional exclusion. The lack of women involved in discussions at the government level about D&I reform make finding solutions more challenging, he noted.
Menshikova cited hurdles for team integration created by the Covid-19 pandemic. With many employees joining remotely and lacking in-person interaction, she said, challenges in managing cultural and generational differences have arisen and linger. Adjusting communication styles to suit a diverse workforce is essential, she added.
Looking at multinational work environments, Nogami sees expectations for how female leaders should behave as an obstacle. Because Asian women may have grown up in cultures where they were told not be assertive, they may struggle to overcome this when making a point at work. She advocates for companies to have not only a mentor but career sponsors who are very serious about promoting these talents who may not be showing their real potential due to cultural expectations.
“While D&I is an important part of an organization’s overall strategy, it takes individuals at all levels to play an active role in building an inclusive culture.”
Targeted Learning
After the panel drilled down into more detailed aspects of D&I, participants split up into three breakout groups:
- Beyond the Quota for PWD
- Managing Uncomfortable Conversations
- Breaking Boundaries: Closing the Gender Gap and Retaining Talent for Salesforce Diversity
In Beyond the Quota for PWD, Kenji Hirano (president and representative director of Adecco Japan and director of LIXIL Advanced Showroom Corporation) joined Asahi Group Holdings’ Senior Manager of Global Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Mizuki Hsu to promote the inclusion and empowerment of persons with disabilities (PWD). The workshop, facilitated by Kitano, highlighted the importance of creating inclusive environments that go beyond mere compliance with quotas to foster genuine opportunities for PWDs and to uncover biases.
Managing Uncomfortable Conversations featured Lumina Learning Global Partner for Japan Elizabeth Handover guiding participants through the key skills and techniques for professional, objective communication. The session covered techniques for crafting the conversation and highlighted factors that can lead to success or failure. Handover provided highly practical advice that could immediately be applied in the workplace. The session was facilitated by committee Vice-Chair Naomi Iwasaki.
Breaking Boundaries: Closing the Gender Gap and Retaining Talent for Salesforce Diversity explored gender diversity in Japan’s sales sector. Shimako Takayama (commercial diversity, equity, and inclusion leader at Eli Lilly Japan), alongside facilitator Alison Chen (vice-chair of the ACCJ-Kansai Diversity and Inclusion Committee), discussed the trends, barriers, and strategies to foster greater inclusion and empowerment to help retain talent.
Connections
The summit concluded with a networking session, and at the end of the day, participants no doubt felt the embodiment of what Consul General Cubas said in closing his opening remarks: “While D&I is an important part of an organization’s overall strategy, it takes individuals at all levels to play an active role in building an inclusive culture. Thank you all for your commitment to this work. I hope today’s discussions inspire everyone to keep moving forward, weaving D&I into every part of what you do.”
Transforming Treatment
The annual HxD Pitch Day brought together five innovative start-ups that are bringing healthcare innovation to a changing world.
ACCJ Healthcare x Digital Pitch Day again shines the spotlight on innovation
Osaka’s Nakanoshima Qross, a new international hub for healthcare innovation, welcomed the American Chamber of Commerce in Japan (ACCJ) on November 1 as host of the annual Healthcare x Digital (HxD) Pitch Day.
Led by the ACCJ Kansai Chapter and the Healthcare Committee, the HxD platform brings together innovators from multidisciplinary backgrounds to collaborate and develop ideas alongside some of the world’s leading healthcare and pharmaceutical companies.
Simone Thomsen, president and representative director of Eli Lilly Japan K.K. and an ACCJ governor, kicked off the event by addressing healthcare challenges amplified by Japan’s aging population and rising costs.
Digitalization, she noted, is key to overcoming barriers in healthcare. She emphasized the Kansai region’s burgeoning ecosystem of start-ups and the importance of fostering partnerships for sustainable solutions—something at the heart of this year’s theme, Transforming Healthcare: Collaborating in a Changing World.
“Led by the ACCJ Kansai Chapter and the Healthcare Committee, the HxD platform brings together innovators from multidisciplinary backgrounds to collaborate and develop ideas alongside some of the world’s leading healthcare and pharmaceutical companies.”
Following Thomsen’s remarks, Dr. Yoshiki Sawa, chairman of the Organization for Advanced Healthcare Innovation at Nakanoshima Qross, delivered the keynote address.
A renowned cardiac surgeon and innovator, Sawa shared insights into cutting-edge research at Nakanoshima Qross, including the development of iPS cell-derived cardiac patches for regenerative medicine. He highlighted the unique collaboration opportunities provided by the center, where research, development, and medical applications coexist under one roof.
A roundtable discussion followed with panelists Kunihiro Ohyama of Microsoft Japan, Dr. Junji Fukumori of Osaka Keisatsu Hospital, Taro Tanaka from Osaka Prefecture, and Koji Deguchi from Kobe City. Topics included the role of public–private partnerships in fostering innovation, the importance of global collaboration, and strategies for addressing healthcare inequities.
Tanaka, the director of Osaka’s Smart City Strategy Division, shared how the city is leveraging digital health initiatives, while Ohyama, Microsoft Japan’s healthcare industry lead, discussed the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things in healthcare, among other themes that were raised.
Game Changers
The heart of HxD Pitch Day was the competition in which five innovative start-ups presented their solutions to transform healthcare. Competing this year were:
- Bipsee Inc.
- Elcyo Co., Ltd.
- ImmuniT Research, Inc.
- Pittan Inc.
- Seven Point One Inc.
Judging were industry experts, including EY Strategy & Consulting’s Christian Boettcher, Eli Lilly Japan’s Yasuhiko Iida and Miyu Harada, Innovation Dojo Japan’s Joshua Flannery, and AstraZeneca’s Torsten Kanisch and Mari Ogihara, who is also the community manager for the i2.JP open innovation initiative. Their expertise provided valuable feedback to the start-ups. Bipsee, Pittan, and Seven Point One received honors.
Bipsee, winner of the HxD Award, impressed judges with its mental health therapy based on virtual reality (VR). Chief Operating Officer Kohei Kamikihara explained how VR could alleviate the burden of cognitive behavioral therapy on clinicians and patients by offering an immersive, self-guided alternative. The company’s eight-week program helps patients intuitively learn coping mechanisms for depression, thereby reducing relapse rates, Kamikihara said.
Elcyo Co., Ltd. presented its groundbreaking Elcyo Lens, an autofocus glasses system integrating liquid crystal lens technology and AI. The glasses dynamically adjust prescriptions in real-time, reducing eye strain caused by digital devices. Chief Executive Officer Sunri Lee noted that the glasses are not just tools for vision correction but guardians of eye health. Set to launch in 2025, the product aims to transform vision care.
ImmuniT Research, Inc. unveiled its advanced immune system quantification technology, focusing on its Th7R cell marker, which aids in cancer immunotherapy. By providing precise data for personalized treatment, ImmuniT is redefining how clinicians approach immune-related diseases. The company has a vision to revolutionize cancer treatment and realize a society of longevity, said Chief Scientific Officer Akio Ametani.
Recipient of the Microsoft Award, Seven Point One Inc. pitched AlzWIN, their AI-powered dementia screening solution that utilizes verbal fluency. The solution looks to empower individuals through early dementia diagnosis and management.
SelectUSA
The SelectUSA Award went to Pittan Inc., which showcased Nutrifull, a system that analyzes sweat composition to visualize health and nutritional status. Designed to enable more people to accurately monitor their health status on a regular basis, Nutrifull aims to extend life expectancy by preventing lifestyle-related diseases.
HxD’s connection to the SelectUSA Investment Summit, a US government program designed to attract and support international business investments in the United States, is a standout aspect of the competition. The tie-up is supported by the Commercial Service office in Japan and began last spring, when US Ambassador to Japan Rahm Emanuel attended Pitch Day on April 17 and saw Anaut Inc. punch its ticket to June’s SelectUSA Summit in National Harbor, Maryland. The company won for its clinical AI software that enables precision mapping of the human body during surgery.
With its win this year, Pittan Inc. secured the opportunity to win a trip to Maryland for the next summit, to be held from May 11 to 14, where it will gain exposure to US investors and partners. The SelectUSA collaboration underscores the ACCJ’s commitment to fostering global opportunities for Japanese start-ups.
Building Bridges
Kanisch from AstraZeneca remarked on the ingenuity of the start-ups, highlighting the potential for Japan to lead in digital health innovation. He also shared his excitement at seeing ambitious ideas taking shape through HxD.
Following the awards ceremony, the event closed with a networking session, offering participants the chance to forge partnerships that could shape the future of healthcare in Japan—and globally.
HxD Pitch Day demonstrated the power of collaboration in addressing healthcare challenges. By bringing together diverse stakeholders, the event not only showcased Japan’s potential as a global healthcare innovation hub but also fostered connections with international markets.
As Thomsen from Eli Lilly Japan concluded in her opening remarks: “This world is changing. We have a true VUCA [volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity] world where there is a lot of instability.”
And while noting societal challenges such as the increase in aging populations, which is impacting healthcare systems, especially in Japan, she also highlighted the opportunities.
“Digitalization and technology will help us to accelerate [innovative solutions] further,” she said. “This is why, today, we wanted to come together, and what better venue could we think of than the new Nakanoshima Qross, which really is an international hub for healthcare innovation.”
May 2024 Event Highlights
View a collection of photos from the ACCJ’s May 2024 events.
From left: Alternative Foreign and Direct Investment (AFDI) Committee Chair Paul Lee, ACCJ President Victor Osumi, Director-General of the Office of Foreign Direction Investment Promotion at the Cabinet Office Mitsuru Myochin, and Special Adviser Jennifer Rogers are seen together after the AFDI event on May 27 at Tokyo American Club.
The American Chamber of Commerce in Japan hosted a wide variety of events in May. Among these were:
- How Intensified US-China Strategic Competition Is Reshaping Indo-Pacific Economic Interdependence
- Preparing for the AI Revolution: Executive Business Briefing with Joe Hart, Dale Carnegie President and CEO
- Breakfast in the Boardroom: Breaking Barriers in Japan’s Corporate Leadership
- International Spring Meet and Greet in Kobe
- The 33rd ACCJ/NIS Chubu Walkathon
- PMDA’s International Vision in New Midterm Targets
- Promoting FDI in Japan: A Discussion with Mitsuru Myochin, Director-General, Office of FDI Promotion, Cabinet Office
- IBM’s Compliance Landscape: Building a Culture of Trust and Integrity in a Global Organization
Here are some of our favorite highlights.
2024 DC Doorknock
During the 2024 DC Doorknock, ACCJ delegates met with leaders in Washington, DC, to discuss security, economic, and strategic partnerships.
The 2024 ACCJ DC Doorknock delegates gather in front of the US Capitol.
From June 3 to 6, American Chamber of Commerce in Japan (ACCJ) leaders made their visit to Washington, DC, as part of the chamber’s annual DC Doorknock visits. These trips are an important part of the ACCJ’s advocacy efforts and strengthen US–Japan relations.
ACCJ President Victor Osumi was joined by Special Advisor Steve Briggs, Governor Hans Klemm, Chairman Christopher LaFleur, Executive Director Laura Younger, and Bank of America's Tamao Sasada.
April 2024 Event Highlights
View a collection of photos from the ACCJ’s April 2024 events.
ACCJ President Victor Osumi, CEO Forum members, Young Professionals Forum leaders, and speakers from the Learning from Executives event after the CEO Forum x YPF Collaboration event at the Otemachi One Tower on April 24.
The American Chamber of Commerce in Japan hosted a wide variety of events in April. Among these were:
- Navigating Cybersecurity Staffing Challenges in Japan
- It’s a Small World: A Multinational Networking Event
- Marketing Teams that Drive Transformation: Lessons from Panasonic Connect
- Ten Points on Business Dinner with Jim Weisser
- Earth Day 2024
- ACCJ/NAJAS Business Leaders Series with Steve Briggs, Kraft Heinz president for Northeast Asia
- Law Enforcement and Foreign Residents: A Look at the Tokyo Bar Association Study
- Learning from Executives Series (CEO Forum x YPF Collaboration Event)
Here are some of our favorite highlights.
March 2024 Event Highlights
View a collection of photos from the ACCJ’s March 2024 events.
ACCJ leaders and inspirational mentors Sarah Bader, Ginger Griggs, Elizabeth Handover, Deborah Hayden, Azusa Koike, Mari Matthews, and Catherine Ohura shared lessons on career-building and more at an event honoring International Women’s Day on March 13 event at Tokyo American Club.
The American Chamber of Commerce in Japan hosted a wide variety of events in March. Among these were:
- The Evolving Healthcare Landscape: Trends in the Use of Medicines and Customer Engagement in Japan
- Executive Perspectives on the Post-Covid Workplace
- Japan Fintech Festival x ACCJ FinTech Panel
- Miracles through Partnership: Improving Japanese Healthcare through Collaboration and Entrepreneurship
- Speed Mentoring to Celebrate International Women’s Day
- How Can Successful M&A Unlock the Potential of Companies in Japan?
- The Likability Advantage
- The Future of Television: Streaming and Disruption in the Media Industry
- Cybersecurity Lessons from Ukraine
- Business Strategy Series: From Nada to the World: Learning from Hakutsuru Shuzo's Overseas Strategy
Here are some of our favorite highlights.
February 2024 Event Highlights
View a collection of photos from the ACCJ’s February 2024 events.
The Women in Business and Kansai Diversity & Inclusion Committees held the WIB Learn from Examples Series: Unveiling the Power of DEI in Corporate Success at Nippon Boehringer Ingelheim (NBI) Co., Ltd.’s Kobe Pharma Research Institute on February 15.
The American Chamber of Commerce in Japan a hosted wide variety of events in February 2024. Among these were:
- From Import Niche to Mainstream Hit: How Haribo Goldbears Cracked Japan’s Convenience Stores and Reached No. 1
- Entrepreneurs vs. Corporate Giants: A Look Ahead at Japan’s Economic Future
- WIB Learn from Examples Series: Unveiling the Power of DEI in Corporate Success at Nippon Boehringer Ingelheim Co., Ltd.
- Unlocking Sustainable Futures: A Deep Dive into Carbon Accounting
- Fireside Chat with Hiroyuki Otsuka, founder and chief executive officer of Newton Investment Partners (former deputy head of Carlyle Japan)
- Chubu Children’s Fund Charity Lunch
- Regulatory Innovation in the Cloud: Accelerating Critical Therapies to Citizens of the World
- Kansai CEO Series: Canvas to Corporation: Unleashing the Power of Art in Business
Here are some of our favorite highlights.
2024 ACCJ Shinnenkai
ACCJ members and guests ushered in the Year of the Dragon in the Imperial Hotel’s Hikari Room.
Members and guests ushered in the Year of the Dragon in the Imperial Hotel’s Hikari Room.
Photos by Miki Kawaguchi/LIFE.14
From left: ACCJ President Victor Osumi, Deputy Chief Mission Raymond Greene, Chairman of Japan–US Business Council and Vice-Chair of Keidanren Jun Sawada, and ACCJ Executive Director Laura Younger.
The American Chamber of Commerce in Japan (ACCJ) held its second in-person shinnenkai since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic, ushering in the Year of the Dragon at the Imperial Hotel on January 26. Some 270 guests joined the ACCJ to kick off the new year with the kagami-biraki—the ceremonial cracking open of a sake barrel—followed by networking with fellow members, friends, and officials from the Japanese and US governments.
ACCJ President Victor Osumi gave opening remarks and shared his vision of fostering partnership, embracing progress, and bridging the future with excellence. He then led the kagami-biraki alongside ACCJ Executive Director Laura Younger, US Embassy Deputy Chief of Mission Raymond Greene, and Jun Sawada, chairman of the Japan–US Business Council and vice-chair of Keidanren (the Japanese Business Federation).
As we continue our celebrations to mark the ACCJ’s 75th anniversary, we look forward to working with our members and partners to advance US-Japan relations and make a positive impact on the international business environment in Japan.
2023 Leaders and Volunteers of the Year
The ACCJ honored the 2023 ACCJ Leaders and Volunteers of the Year at the December Leadership Forum. Learn more about the contributions each has made to better the community and contribute to the ACCJ mission.
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.
Shining Bright
ACCJ members and guests gathered at the Hilton Tokyo in Shinjuku on December 2 for one of the chamber’s largest annual events. And this edition offered a chance to celebrate the chamber’s 75th anniversary while also raising funds for charity.
Diamond Charity Ball celebrates the ACCJ’s 75th anniversary.
Members of the American Chamber of Commerce in Japan (ACCJ) and guests gathered at the Hilton Tokyo in Shinjuku on December 2 for one of the chamber’s largest annual events. And this edition, the Diamond Charity Ball, offered a chance to celebrate a major milestone—the chamber’s 75th anniversary—while also raising funds for charity.
The exceptional venue, amazing culinary offerings, spectacular entertainment, stellar selection of fine wine and spirits, and expansive silent and live auctions and raffle helped us achieve our goal.
Jesper Koll and Nahoko Bolden emceed, and performers included Marcus Pittman and the High Roller Horns (featuring the Q Factor G.N.P.) and Wakiri, a group of passionate artists comprising drummer and dancer Akira Katogi, shamisen player and composer Etsuro On, and Shunsuke Kimura, a Japanese composer who plays flute and tsugaru-shamisan. ACCJ intern and Bishop Scholar Matthew Trani also shared his singing talents.
“Success would not have been possible without the invaluable support of our generous sponsors, enthusiastic attendees, and the many individuals who took part in our online raffle and auction.”
Together with the ACCJ staff, the Charity Ball Committee—Barbara Hancock, Kevin Naylor, Ryan Watson, Tomomi Fujita, Sonia Dhillon Marty, and William Titus—worked diligently to organize the event.
But success would not have been possible without the invaluable support of our generous sponsors, enthusiastic attendees, and the many individuals who took part in our online raffle and auction.
The committee extends its deepest gratitude to our sponsors and the ACCJ community for making a big difference in our ability to help those in need. We are grateful to each and every person involved, and extend a huge thank you to all!
Photos: Media Sense K.K.
Legacy of Giving
The Charity Ball is not only one of the biggest events on the annual social calendar, it is also one of the ACCJ’s most important fundraisers. The money raised during the event is key to the chamber’s ability to support the community and help those in need.
The Charity Ball Committee works closely with the ACCJ Community Service Advisory Council to activate this effort with the generous participation of member companies and the membership at large. The annual Charity Ball is a time when we come together to share our success in Japan with each other and, at the same time, generate funding for charities qualified by a rigorous process.
This year we are proud to support the Mike Makino Fund for the Homeless, Food Bank Kansai, and the ACCJ Community Service Fund. We will also contribute to charities that help at-risk children, families, children’s hospitals and homes, and programs for these children.
“The ACCJ has a well-rounded mission that includes not only networking, information sharing, and advocacy, but also constructive engagement with the community.”
Together with the ACCJ staff, the Charity Ball Committee—Barbara Hancock, Kevin Naylor, Ryan Watson, Tomomi Fujita, Sonia Dhillon Marty, and William Titus—worked diligently to organize the event.
But success would not have been possible without the invaluable support of our generous sponsors, enthusiastic attendees, and the many individuals who took part in our online raffle and auction.
The committee extends its deepest gratitude to our sponsors and the ACCJ community for making a big difference in our ability to help those in need. We are grateful to each and every person involved, and extend a huge thank you to all!
President’s Circle Sponsor
Platinum Sponsor
Aflac
Bronze Sponsors
AIG Companies in Japan
Chevron International Gas Inc. Japan Branch
Prudential Holdings of Japan, Inc.
Silver Sponsor
Boeing Japan K.K.
Coca-Cola (Japan) Co., Ltd.
Mercury Sponsors
Morgan, Lewis, & Bockius LLP
NRK Sogo Kikaku Co. Ltd.
Prize Sponsors
Diamond
Air Canada
CIC Toranomon G.K.
Delta Air Lines
Hakuba Hotel Group
Herman Miller Japan, Ltd.
Ichijiku
KPG Hotel & Resort
Kraft Heinz Japan
Marriott International, Inc.
MediaSense K.K.
Ratko Back Painting
The Peninsula Tokyo
United Airlines, Inc.
Vega Project K.K.
Ruby
Grand Hyatt Tokyo
Hilton Nagoya
Park Hyatt Tokyo
There’s No Accounting for Taste
Sapphire
Amway Japan G.K.
ELC Japan K.K. (Estée Lauder)
Fukushima Garo
Good Morning Tokyo Co., Ltd.
Hakkaisan Brewery
Moegi
Simon Dalby Art
Tokyo American Club
Emerald
Andaz
Asian Tigers Japan
Conrad Tokyo
DevilCraft
Eastern Carpets
Elana Jade
Godiva Japan Inc.
grapeoff
Hilton Osaka
Hilton Tokyo
Hilton Tokyo Bay
InterContinental Osaka
Japan Design Collective
Jupiter International Corporation
McLarty Associates
Minamiaoyama7chome Gyoseishoshi Office
pearls.jp
Riedel Japan
Shop Japan
Takata Co., Ltd.
The Strings by InterContinental Tokyo
Temple University Japan Campus
Yellow Toes Art Gallery
2022 Person of the Year: Akio Mimura
On November 9, 2023, the American Chamber of Commerce in Japan (ACCJ) recognized Akio Mimura as the 2022 ACCJ Person of the Year. He was chosen for his efforts to bring the Japanese and international business communities closer together during his nine years as chairman of the Japan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JCCI).
The ACCJ honors the Japan Chamber of Commerce and Industry honorary chairman for his enduring support of international businesses in Japan.
Photos by Miki Kawaguchi/LIFE.14
From left: ACCJ Executive Director Laura Younger, Akio Mimura, and ACCJ President Om Prakash
On November 9, 2023, the American Chamber of Commerce in Japan (ACCJ) recognized Akio Mimura as the 2022 ACCJ Person of the Year. He was chosen for his efforts to bring the Japanese and international business communities closer together during his nine years as chairman of the Japan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JCCI).
The person of the year is normally honored in spring, but this year’s event was delayed due to the coronavirus pandemic.
During a special luncheon at The Place of Tokyo, the former chairman and president of Nippon Steel Corporation spoke about his long career.
The event began with a VIP session where ACCJ leaders greeted Mimura, after which ACCJ Executive Director Laura Younger welcomed guests and provided background about the award. ACCJ President Om Prakash delivered remarks and invited Mimura to the podium.
“I am truly honored to be nominated as the 2022 ACCJ Person of the Year, because 2022 was the year I concluded my 60-year business career, 51 years in the Nippon Steel Corporation and nine years as the chairman of the JCCI,” Mimura began.
“The last nine years have been especially worthwhile periods in my life,” he continued, noting that the coronavirus pandemic, during which he closed out his time as JCCI chairman, required action and guidance to protect the most vulnerable people and businesses, especially small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
“I devoted my energy to three initiatives,” explained Mimura, who requested:
- Balanced measures to contain Covid-19 that allow free economic activity
- All possible measures from government to ensure that businesses survive
- SMEs use the pandemic as a wake-up call and promote self-reformation
“Luckily, Covid-19 is finally coming to an end, and most SMEs were able to preserve their business continuation,” he said. “Overall unemployment in Japan was kept very low, at 2–3 percent. Our real challenge is to position this pandemic and the worldwide inflation as a turning point, and to rejuvenate the Japanese economy, which has been stagnant for the past quarter century.”
Mimura shared that another great memory is encountering the philosophy of Eiichi Shibusawa. Born in 1840, Shibusawa played a key part in business development during the Meiji Period (1868–1912) and is often referred to as the father of Japanese capitalism.
“He was involved in the founding of 481 companies and played an active role in the launch of 600 social contribution institutes. Can you believe it?”
The latter especially resonates with Mimura.
“In recent years, I have been very heartened to see the increasing global interest in [strategic development goals] and stakeholder capitalism,” he said. “However, I have personally felt dissatisfied with the fact that this interest often remains only on the surface, limited to general overviews or investor-related presentations without translating into concrete actions.”
Shibusawa, he notes, insisted earnestly that business leaders should pursue profit but also contribute to the public interest, namely by enriching society and making people happier.
“He was not only a person of action but also a visionary leader,” Mimura said. “We business leaders must somehow achieve the harmony of private and public interests in our own way.”
November 2023 Event Highlights
View a collection of photos from the ACCJ’s November 2023 events.
From left: ACCJ Governor John Carlson, Governor Mark Hosang, Governor Meghan Barstow, President Om Prakash, Special Advisor Jenifer Rogers, Vice President Robert Roche, and Treasurer Steve Briggs pose at the 16th Chubu Champagne Ball and Awards Evening, held on November 17 at the Hilton Nagoya.
The American Chamber of Commerce in Japan hosted 55 events in November 2023. Among these were:
- Conversation with Takami Former CEO Yuji Okamura
- G7 Competition Enforcers and Policymakers Summit Side Event
- Chubu Walkathon Charity Fund Presentation Ceremony
- AI in Marketing and PR: The Winning Formula
- 2022 ACCJ Person of the Year Award: Mr. Akio Mimura
- Nomu-nication: Celebrating the Reunion with America-Japan Society
- Celebrating Seisho Kondo: Community Champion
- Sales Support Alliance November Meeting
- ACCJ & JASO Thanksgiving Party
- Welcome to the Wild, Wild West! The 2023 ACCJ/TJCS Champagne Ball and Awards Evening
- Healthcare x Digital 2023: Generative AI: Boosting Healthcare
- Kansai Tech Series #11: Long-chain DNA Synthesis and the Potential of Biofoundry for Gene Therapy
- ACCJ-CSC: Urban Gardening 2023 (Part 2)
- Diversity & Inclusion Summit Series 2023: Unleashing the Power of Inclusion, Day 3
Here are some of our favorite highlights.
Diversity & Inclusion Summit Series Day 3
The ACCJ hosted its first in-person Diversity & Inclusion Summit since the pandemic on Day 3 of the "Unleashing the Power of Inclusion" series.
Participants in the first in-person Diversity & Inclusion Summit since the pandemic gathered on Day 3 of the Unleashing the Power of Inclusion series.
The ACCJ hosted its first in-person Diversity & Inclusion Summit since the pandemic on November 28. Day 3 of the series was entitled Unleashing the Power of Inclusion.
The event, held at the Intercontinental Hotel Osaka, featured a panel discussion with:
- Simone Thomsen, president and representative director, Eli Lilly Japan K.K.
- Steve Briggs, president, Northeast Asia, Kraft Heinz
- Haruko Watanabe, representative director, president, and chief executive officer, American Home Assurance Company, Ltd.; director and vice chairman, AIG Japan Holdings KK
- Lavanya Wadgaonkar, global vice president, communications and global DEI champion, Nissan Motor Co. Ltd.
- Nuala Connolly, head of talent, DEI country lead, and deputy head of HR, AIG Japan
Hosted by the Kansai Diversity & Inclusion, Women in Business, and Kansai Business Programs Committees, the three days of training sessions, workshops, and discussions aimed to create safe and inclusive environments in the workplace.
October 2023 Event Highlights
View a collection of photos from the ACCJ’s Ocotober 2023 events.
The Cross-Chamber Young Professionals Speed Networking event held on October 25 featured support from eight chambers of commerce in Japan.
The American Chamber of Commerce in Japan hosted 57 events in October 2023. Among these were:
- The North America–Europe Golf Challenge in Japan 2023 (October 6)
- Innovation in Residential Energy Business Models (October 10)
- Villanova University MBA Delegation Meeting (October 10)
- Diversity & Inclusion Summit Series 2023 "Unleashing the Power of Inclusion" Days 1 and 2 (October 5 and 13)
- Chubu Children's Fund Golf Tournament (October 13)
- Policy Briefing with Eric Pan of Investment Company Institute (October 16)
- New Jersey First Lady Tammy Murphy (October 17)
- Sales Support Alliance October Meeting (October 18)
- The New Social Customer and How to Access Your Audience (October 19)
- Ordinary General Meeting (October 24)
- Cross-Chamber Young Professionals Speed Networking (October 25)
- Generative AI: How It Will Shape Businesses Tomorrow and Is Transforming Legal Work (October 25)
- Unveiling the Power of DEI in Corporate Success (October 26)
Here are some of our favorite highlights.
September 2023 Event Highlights
View a collection of photos from the ACCJ’s busy schedule of September 2023 events.
Renowned economist and Japan optimist Jesper Koll (center left) delivered a compelling case for Japan’s future on September 4 at an event hosted by the ACCJ Alternative and Foreign Direct Investment Committee at Tokyo American Club.
The American Chamber of Commerce in Japan hosted 50 events in September 2023. Among these were:
- Japan Outlook and Opportunities: Ambitious Re-imagination with Jesper Koll
- Security Clearances in Japan
- USG Briefing w/ Deputy Secretary of Commerce Don Graves
- DC Doorknock Debref with Keizai Doyukai
- Joint Networking with the Ireland Japan Chamber of Commerce
- Summer's End Multinational Chamber Networking Matsuri
- September Leadership Forum
- T&L Meetings and Networking Event
- Innovate & Connect: Tokyo’s ICT Networking Fiesta at Havana Café
- Thinking Local to Go Global: NBA Lessons on Business Expansion
Here are some of our favorite highlights.
2023 DC Doorknock
During the first full DC Doorknock since 2019, ACCJ delegates met with leaders in Washington, DC, to discuss security, economic, and strategic partnerships.
The 2023 ACCJ DC Doorknock delegates gather in front of the US Capitol.
On September 12 and 13, American Chamber of Commerce in Japan (ACCJ) leaders made their first full visit to Washington, DC, since the start of the coronavirus pandemic. These DC Doorknock visits are an important part of the ACCJ’s advocacy efforts and strengthen US–Japan relations.
ACCJ President Om Prakash was joined by Vice Presidents Jason Hyland and Victor Osumi; Governors Hans Klemm, Frank Packard, and Will Shaffer; Treasurer Steven Briggs; Special Adviser Christopher LaFleur; Digital Forum Vice-Chair Kristopher Tate; and Executive Director Laura Younger.
The delegation was warmly welcomed by administration officials, members of Congress, and officials from the Embassy of Japan and the US Chamber of Commerce. Topics of discussion included security, economic, and strategic partnerships.
The Bishop Family Memorial Scholarship Fund
On June 12, the ACCJ and the United States–Japan Bridging Foundation gathered at Tokyo American Club to honor the family and launch the Bishop Family Memorial Scholarship Fund at an event entitled Lives Lived for Bridging the United States and Japan.
Honoring the legacy of ACCJ leader Bill Bishop and his family through education
As a typhoon slammed Yokota Air Base in July 1974, a plane rocked its way down to the runway. Onboard was navy photographer Bill Bishop. That first night, he also experienced his first earthquake. It was a dramatic start to a five-decade relationship with Japan that would lead the South Dakota native to become a key part of the US business community in the country.
Last December, on Christmas morning, Bishop, his wife Izumi, and their daughter Sophianna lost their lives, killed by their neighbor at their family home in Saitama Prefecture.
Members of the American Chamber of Commerce in Japan (ACCJ) remember Bishop for his kindness, humor, friendship, and dedication to the chamber, where he served as chair, vice-chair, and board liaison of the Healthcare Committee over the years.
On June 12, the ACCJ and the United States–Japan Bridging Foundation gathered at Tokyo American Club to honor the family and launch the Bishop Family Memorial Scholarship Fund at an event entitled Lives Lived for Bridging the United States and Japan.
In attendance were US Ambassador to Japan Rahm Emanuel, representatives of Tochigi Prefecture Governor Tomikazu Fukuda, and ACCJ members and guests.
“We hope creating a fund that will support students who will come from the US to study in Japan, at Temple University, will be an incredible way to support Bill and his family’s legacy.”
Tom Mason, the foundation’s executive director, said, “We hope creating a fund that will support students who will come from the US to study in Japan, at Temple University, will be an incredible way to support Bill and his family’s legacy.”
Bishop studied in Japan himself and received a bachelor of arts degree from Sophia University. He earned a master’s degree from Temple University in Philadelphia, and later became a lecturer and board member at the Japan campus.
The event also marked the 25th anniversary of the United States–Japan Bridging Foundation, which provides US undergraduates—especially those from historically underrepresented communities—with scholarships to study abroad in Japan. It also offers mentorship and networking opportunities to build a Japan-related career, fostering the next generation of US leaders with connections to the bilateral relationship. Since its founding in 1998, the group has supported more than 2,000 students.
Some of this year’s Bridging Scholars, as well as alumni, also joined the event to share their experiences studying in Japan thanks to the foundation’s support.
The Bishop Family Memorial Scholarship Fund will be based at, and managed by, the US–Japan Bridging Foundation, which will administer and manage the scholarship and its programs—including the recruitment of students. Logistics, fundraising, and community support will be provided by the ACCJ.
Education Committee Vice-Chair Thierry Porte, who is also chairman of the United States–Japan Bridging Foundation, is happy to be a part of this.
“I knew Bill Bishop well,” he told The ACCJ Journal. “He and I worked together in the late 1990s to early 2000s at the ACCJ, and he was an active member of the American community in Japan. As [he was] someone who was very active working with students, there was quite a bit of movement in the community to remember Bill and his family.”
Porte said the Bishop Family Memorial Scholarship Fund will be a “living memorial to Bill, his wife, and his daughter and the logical place to collaborate would be the ACCJ, where Bill was very active and his daughter interned.”
Surf the DX Wave
A digital transformation (DX) wave is sweeping across Japan, but learning to surf that wave takes experience. Another group of islands that know a bit about surfing, and have ridden DX to their advantage, could be a guide.
Five big lessons for Japan from Hawaii
As Japan’s fledgling Digital Agency finds its way through its second year of existence, and the Tokyo Metropolitan Government’s new start-up strategy takes hold, a digital transformation (DX) wave is sweeping across the country. Learning to surf that wave takes experience, however, and another group of islands that know a bit about surfing, and have ridden DX to their advantage, could be a guide for Japan.
How the Hawaiian tourism industry found renewed life through digital transformation was the subject of a February 28 event held at Tokyo American Club and online, and entitled How to Surf the DX Wave: Five Big Lessons for Japan from Hawaii. The American Chamber of Commerce in Japan Tourism and Hospitality Committee luncheon—co-hosted by the Digital Transformation and the Information, Communications, and Technology Committees—welcomed Mayumi Nakamura and Mike Birt of Ascent Partners, LLC to discuss the restructuring of Hawaii’s tourism management system.
When the Covid-19 pandemic forced a total shutdown of travel, tourism hot spots such as Honolulu, which had welcomed a record 10.4 million visitors in 2019, went from overtourism to dead empty in just a few days. The islands fell quiet. And when tourism returned in 2021, it was not the same.
Recovering from Wipeout
“As people started coming back, the domestic travel industry was just a madhouse,” Birt explained. It was clear that the pandemic had left Hawaii’s tourism industry scarred and unprepared for the influx. Change was needed.
The seeds for change were planted even earlier. When heavy storms hit Haena State Park, on the island of Kauai, in April 2018, major access roads were shut down and neither tourists nor locals could enter.
It was a needed pause, however. Before the disaster, some 3,000 tourists had visited daily, leaving little room for Hawaiians. “There was some conflict there, and many people couldn’t enjoy their own homeland,” Nakamura explained.
While the storm was a multi-million-dollar disaster for many, others saw it as divine intervention, an opportunity to reappraise the management of state parks and give greater consideration to the balance of tourists and locals.
When the decision was made to transform the system, the Hawaiian government approached Ascent Partners for help. Nakamura led a team that designed a timed-entry reservation system. Entry was restricted to those with reservations, and daily tourist admission was capped. This allowed locals more opportunities to enjoy their own land. Greater emphasis was also placed on hiking the trails and evoking the experience of the natural land as the Native Hawaiians saw it.
Due to the pandemic, all the work had to be done remotely. The Hawaii project was run from Seattle, while the software development team was in India and various support staff were scattered across the US mainland.
The project was a great success. Not only were there societal benefits, but economic ones as well. The state brought in 250 percent of its projected tourism revenue in the first year.
The island of Kauai, home to Haena State Park
Model for DX
Birt believes the fact that this project could be carried out remotely with such great success shows the potential for adapting the approach to other countries, with each following their own philosophy of reimagining post-pandemic tourism.
“It became a model for how to scale and develop very effective software digital transformation projects that can literally span the world,” he explained. “Destination management is a key element—and this isn’t just Hawaii. Venice, Iceland, Amsterdam … there are a number of [places] that have really had to work on how to manage their destination so that it doesn’t become overrun, and the community can still enjoy where they live.”
“It became a model for how to scale and develop very effective software digital transformation projects that can literally span the world.”
Birt and Nakamura said they learned a lot during their three years working with the Hawaiian state government. They shared five lessons which they believe Japan could put into action to transform its own post-pandemic tourism.
Lesson 1: DX requires leadership and vision
“Without a vision, none of the people around [you] can support the project. In the case of Hawaii, it was a return of aloha spirit,” Nakamura said. What made the project possible, she added, was that both the state government and private individuals were on board and committed to using the pandemic to take a bold step.
Lesson 2: DX has customers—and adversaries
“The state parks are literally part of [Hawaii’s] soul; Hawaiians think of their parks as almost a living thing,” Birt explained. Undertaking such a large-scale project, therefore, brought together many parties with a vested interest, whether emotional or financial.
Naturally, with this came those who strongly opposed the transformation. But nobody, Birt and Nakamura acknowledged, knowingly played the role of adversary; they resisted change simply for self-preservation. What saved the project from failure was that powerful friends in the Hawaiian state government shared the vision and supported it from the start.
Lesson 3: Technology is powerful
DX is not a simple one-and-done operation. It is an everyday effort that must be constantly analyzed and adjusted to fit the needs of the project. The DX wave does not stop or slow down. Everyone must be skilled and educated to properly participate in the journey. Questions must be constantly asked. In the case of the Hawaii project: Where are the tourists going? How are they going? How could communication be improved? What could smooth entrance into the parks?
Lesson 4: Expectations change
While the aloha spirit is the genuine treasure of Hawaii, it must always be met in balance with malama, the respect for the state and environment, as well as the customs and culture that come with it. You receive the generosity of Hawaii, but you are obliged to pay it back in appreciation. The same balance is sought in DX, where it has the potential to bring revenue and benefits, but we must be careful to not kill the goose that lays the golden eggs.
Lesson 5: DX waves won’t stop, learn to surf them
Lastly, there must be an emphasis on change, and an understanding that there is no final resting point in DX. Nakamura referred to the decline of Facebook and the rise of the artificial intelligence tool ChatGPT as examples of the unpredictable nature of technology. “You have to be ready to ride the waves as they comes,” she said. “Be adaptable, be adjustable. Don’t think of it as a destination, but as a journey.”