The Japanese American Leadership Delegation (JALD) program provides the opportunity for a select group of Japanese American leaders from across the U.S. to travel to Japan to engage with Japanese leaders in the business, government, academic, non-profit and cultural sectors. The trip also allows Japanese leaders to gain a greater understanding of multicultural America through the experiences of a diverse group of Japanese Americans. Upon their return, delegates collaborate with JALD alumni, the local consulates, the U.S.-Japan Council (USJC) and local and national community organizations to continue strengthening ties between the U.S. and Japan.
 
The 2025 Delegation will include senior Japanese Americans who are top leaders in their professions, have had moderate to extensive experience in U.S.-Japan relations, and will be committed to furthering the U.S.-Japan relationship upon their return. The 2025 program seeks senior leaders in the field of business, trade and investment as well as people-to-people exchanges with the Asia-Pacific region, and climate change, sustainability, and energy, and from government (both elected and appointed), finance, nonprofit, philanthropy and public relations, communications, cross-cultural exchanges, and media. Priority will be given to candidates from areas not represented in previous delegations, with a strong commitment to collaborate with Japanese Americans nationwide. The 2025 Delegation seeks to select a diverse delegation of prominent Japanese American leaders nationally.
 

SUBMISSION OF APPLICATIONS/NOMINATIONS

1. Applications should be submitted by email to the local consulate office based upon the applicant’s residence (see below for list of consulate offices). For residents of Alabama, Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina, applications should be submitted to the Consulate General of Japan in Atlanta.
2. A duplicate copy should also be sent to the U.S.-Japan Council by e-mail to amurata@usjapancouncil.org.

• JALD information 
• Application form 
• Embassy and consulates in the US (Contact Information)

AL.com: Beth Thames: The ‘Haiku Path’ at Monte Sano State Park

To beat the summer heat, visit Monte Sano Mountain in Huntsville, where it's 10 degrees cooler. Explore the Haiku Path in the Japanese Garden, featuring engraved haiku poems inspired by local flora and fauna. Created by friends Terri French and Peggy Bilbro, the path invites visitors to reflect on nature and poetry. With ongoing contributions and a goal to expand, this serene spot offers a calming experience amidst the natural beauty.

群馬県前橋市とアラバマ州バーミングハム市の姉妹都市関係を強化し、国際的な大学間交流を促進するため、サンフォード大学の関係者が小川市長を訪問し、意見交換を行いました。

To strengthen the sister city relationship between Maebashi City, Gunma Prefecture, and Birmingham, Alabama, and to foster international university exchanges, representatives from Samford University visited Mayor Ogawa.

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Made in Alabama: Alabama auto industry’s rapid growth fueled by billions in new investment

On September 30, 1993, Mercedes-Benz announced its first U.S. manufacturing facility in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, marking a pivotal moment for the state's economic future. Initially investing $400 million and planning for 1,500 workers, Mercedes has since invested over $7 billion and employs over 6,300 people. This decision attracted other automakers, including Honda, Hyundai, and the Mazda-Toyota partnership, solidifying Alabama's reputation as an auto industry powerhouse. Today, Alabama’s five automakers have invested around $15 billion, creating over 50,000 jobs and making motor vehicles the state’s top export. The industry is now focusing on electric vehicles, with significant investments in EV production infrastructure.

Made in Alabama: Toyota Alabama to expand production with 350 new jobs in Huntsville

Toyota is expanding its Huntsville engine factory with a $282 million investment, creating over 350 new jobs. This project raises Toyota Alabama’s total investment to over $1.7 billion, reinforcing its commitment to U.S. operations. The Huntsville plant, Toyota's largest North American engine producer, employs over 2,000 people and assembled more than 770,000 engines in 2023. The new investment will add drivetrain product lines, enhancing production capabilities. Local officials, including Governor Kay Ivey and Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle, praised the project for its economic impact and job creation, emphasizing Toyota's role as a key partner in Alabama's auto industry.

The International Dual Enrollment Academy (IDEA) launched on May 18th at Miles College, Birmingham, in partnership with Birmingham Sister Cities and Birmingham City Schools.

The program offers dual enrollment coursework, cultural activities, and travel abroad. The inaugural cohort comprises 25 students from various Birmingham high schools, with 15 selected for a trip to Japan in October based on performance criteria. Stakeholders express enthusiasm for the program, highlighting its potential to showcase Birmingham globally, provide students with a global perspective, and strengthen ties with Japan. 

See whole article

Governor Ivey Celebrates Alabama’s Exporting Success with ‘Trade Excellence Awards,’ Proclaims World Trade Month

Governor Kay Ivey awarded five Alabama companies with the 2024 Governor’s Trade Excellence Award for their global success and impact on the state's economy. The companies honored include Evonik, Hartzell Engine Tech, MDT Armor, PTS Expeditionary Communications, and United Aero Group. Governor Ivey also proclaimed May as World Trade Month in Alabama. Additionally, Nisa Miranda received the Trade Advocate of the Year Award for her significant support of Alabama's export system during her tenure at the University of Alabama Center for Economic Development.

Jasper Mayor David O’Mary highlights the importance of relationships, citing his enduring bond with Mark Jackson, Honorary Consul General of Japan. Jackson's recent visit emphasizes the value of solidifying connections beyond business interests. Their collaboration has attracted Japanese businesses to Jasper, showcasing the benefits of strong ties. O’Mary acknowledges Jackson's proactive role in representing Japan, facilitating investment in Alabama. Jackson stresses the ongoing significance of relationships in attracting Japanese investment to the U.S.

See the article on Daily Mountain Eagle below.

DME 4-25-24_front.pdf

DME 4-25-24_A9.pdf

The Japan Times: Tokyo issues strong warning on yen intervention as currency dips further

Finance Minister Shunichi Suzuki's recent remarks suggest Tokyo may intervene in currency markets due to concerns over excessive yen depreciation. Following a meeting with U.S. and South Korean counterparts, Suzuki warned of the impact of a weak yen on import costs. The dollar's recent strength against the yen has heightened concerns, prompting discussions among the three countries. Analysts anticipate potential volatility during Japan's Golden Week holidays, prompting authorities to remain vigilant. Suzuki emphasized Japan's readiness to address currency volatility and did not rule out intervention. The yen's decline is attributed to strong U.S. economic data, raising speculation about the Federal Reserve's interest rate policy.

AL.com: 15 Birmingham students will go to Japan under global studies program

Fifteen Birmingham City Schools juniors and sophomores are set to join the inaugural International Dual Enrollment Academy (IDEA) program, led by Birmingham Sister Cities, Miles College, and Birmingham City Schools. Designed to cultivate global skills, the program includes dual enrollment coursework at Miles College, cultural activities, and a trip to Japan. Participants can earn nine college credits, a stipend of at least $500, and may attend the Sister Cities International Youth Leadership Summit in Washington, D.C. Aligned with Birmingham's commitment to exceptional education and global readiness, the program runs from May 6 to December 11, 2024.

For more information about the IDEA program, click here.