The JICA Japanese Community Training Program, "Utilizing Soft Power and Regional Revitalization through Reaffirming Okinawa Roots," has been running since 2018, and to date 39 people have come to Okinawa to take part in the training, with some having to take part in online training due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
In August 2024, the Okinawa Soft Power Returned Trainees Association Bolivia Seminar "Yuimar in Santa Cruz, Bolivia" will be held as an official event of the 70th anniversary ceremony of Colonia Okinawa in Bolivia. Returned trainees from Bolivia, Peru, Argentina, Brazil, and as far away as Mexico will participate and report on their activities after returning home, hold discussions and seminars with young people.
Currently, the group of former trainees is called the "International Okinawa Soft Power Association (tentative name)" and is working to appoint a chairman, set association rules, and carry out activities as an organization. Its purpose is to "revitalize the local community," and it has three functions.
1) Formation of a network
② Sharing knowledge and experiences learned
3) Developing the next generation of leaders
We have received a wonderful message and video celebrating World Okinawa Day from Mr. Tsutomu Nagamine (Bolivia), Chairman of the International Okinawa Soft Power Association (provisional name).
Enjoy the sea breeze!