Leading Voices

The ACCJ recognizes stellar contributions across its three chapters.

Photo Miki Kawaguchi/LIFE.14

From left: Bryce Conlan, Jun Mikami, Mayumi Nakamura Birt, ACCJ President Victor Osumi, ACCJ Vice President Arthur Mitchell, Tetsuo (Harry) Ishihara, Erik Olson-Kikuchi, and Gábor Seprényi

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Leaders of the Year

Mayumi Nakamura Birt (Tokyo)
The ACCJ proudly recognizes Mayumi Nakamura Birt for her extraordinary leadership as vice-chair of the Tourism and Hospitality Committee. Birt has played a central role in the committee’s post-Covid revival, driving dynamic programs that have improved member collaboration and engagement. She spearheaded key events and contributed her expertise to multiple viewpoints on tourism advocacy, and she facilitated 2025’s flagship inbound tourism event, Gateway to Japan, which included Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike.

Jun Mikami (Kansai)
The ACCJ extends its appreciation to Jun Mikami for his thoughtful leadership as a founding member and co-chair of the Kansai Young Professionals (YPF) subcommittee. Mikami has strengthened the YPF with his vision, commitment, and passion, building a dynamic community that supports the next generation of global leaders. He successfully executed standout programs, including mentorship events and the annual Christmas Charity Bash, now signature YPF initiatives.

Bryce Conlan (Chubu)
The ACCJ expresses its heartfelt thanks to Bryce Conlan for his outstanding leadership and service, helping those in need as vice-chair of the Chubu Community Service Committee. Conlan has been pivotal to the success of the Chubu Walkathon. His dedication, organization, and ability to engage volunteers and sponsors ensured the event’s lasting positive impact on local communities. His energy, selfless leadership, and initiative, including serving as emcee and managing activities on the day of the Walkathon, have elevated the committee’s activities and the chamber’s visibility and impact in the Chubu region.

Volunteers of the Year

Gábor Seprényi (Tokyo)
The ACCJ expresses its gratitude to Gábor Seprényi for his valuable contributions to the Tourism and Hospitality Committee. Seprényi has been instrumental in the committee’s advocacy initiatives, providing guidance on government policy and directly contributing to the successful publication of two viewpoints. His expert insights have strengthened the committee’s advocacy strategy to drive improvements in the tourism and hospitality sector. He consistently supports the committee by hosting many of its meetings.

Tetsuo (Harry) Ishihara (Kansai)
The ACCJ extends sincere appreciation to Tetsuo (Harry) Ishihara for his outstanding commitment to the Kansai Business Programs Committee. Ishihara was responsible for planning and executing several high-profile programs with prominent speakers, including the Bank of Japan Osaka Branch seminar and the very successful Osaka to Orbit event at Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, held at the USA Pavilion. He also contributed articles to _The ACCJ Journa_l on Kansai Chapter activities.

Erik Olson-Kikuchi (Chubu)
The ACCJ is indebted to Erik Olson-Kikuchi for his instrumental contributions to the Chubu community and the Chubu Walkathon, which is organized with the Nagoya International School. Olson-Kikuchi has played a critical role in mobilizing resources from NIS each May, ensuring smooth coordination and impactful outcomes for the ACCJ’s largest community service event. His passion and dedication to volunteerism have contributed to the Walkathon’s continued success, and he has directly enhanced the ACCJ’s ability to deliver on its commitment to corporate social responsibility and community support.