Explore Resilience and Connection at Fresh Start for Re-connect Event

Reconnect and Co-create: The Journey of the Fresh Start Project

On June 28, 2025, an online event titled Fresh Start for Re-connect will be held, hosted by La torche and its founder, Sanae Akima. This event invites Professor Jeremy Hunter from the Drucker School, who will share his experiences of loss and resilience after losing his home in a wildfire in Los Angeles in January 2024. The objective is to explore how individuals can reconnect and find meaning in the face of uncertainty and change.

From Support to Co-creation

Initially, the project began with the desire to support Jeremy and his family during their difficult time. However, as the initiative evolved, it became clear that the lessons learned from JRemy's life and reflections were far more valuable than simply providing assistance. The focus naturally shifted from support to co-creation, illustrating the deep human connection we can forge even in challenging circumstances.

This project has garnered widespread sympathy and support, leading to the emergence of a non-profit activity that shares essential self-management skills viewed as foundational literacy for humanity. Throughout the project, optional donations are accepted, allowing participants to contribute to the cause.

Event Details

- Date: June 28, 2025
- Time: 10:00 AM - 11:15 AM (JST)
- Platform: Zoom (Free participation; support in English and Japanese)
- Keynote Speaker: Jeremy Hunter (Professor of Practice, Drucker School)
- Moderator: Sanae Akima (CEO of La torche, Project Initiator)
- More info and registration: Fresh Start Event Registration

Pre-Event on June 4

To set the stage for the June 28 event, a pre-event will take place on June 4, featuring a live discussion between Sanae Akima and Asako Inakugishi from Transform. They will delve into the behind-the-scenes aspects of the project and discuss the journey leading to the theme of Re-connect.

- Date: June 4, 2025
- Time: 12:00 PM - 12:30 PM (JST)
- Live Link: Pre-event Live Discussion

Ongoing Series: Fresh Start Friday

Additionally, Professor Jeremy Hunter hosts a monthly online session titled Fresh Start Friday, centered around the theme of building inner strength during crises. This series invites participants to reflect on their experiences through Jeremy's journey following the loss of his home and seeks to foster resilience and recovery amidst difficulties. The next session is scheduled for June 6, 2025.

- Date: June 6, 2025
- Time: 11:30 PM (JST)
- Registration Link: Fresh Start Friday Registration

About Professor Jeremy Hunter

Professor Jeremy Hunter serves as an Associate Professor at the Claremont Graduate University P.F. Drucker School of Management and leads the Executive Mind Leadership Institute. He has been teaching self-management and executive management at the Drucker School since 2003 and has won the Professor of the Year award eight times. With a keen interest in leadership programs, Jeremy has collaborated with various organizations, including Fortune 50 companies and nonprofits. He is also involved in the development of the Meditation Studio 'Medicha' in Minami Aoyama. His publication, “The Self-Management Classroom at the Drucker School—Transform Your Results” (2020, President Publishing), focuses on these themes.

Comments from Sanae Akima

Reflecting on their reunion ten days after the wildfire, Sanae shared, “While I wanted to support him, I realized that we were afforded an opportunity to deeply question what it means to be human. To reconnect isn’t just to link with someone else; it’s also about redefining our relationship with ourselves. I hope we can collectively witness this new beginning together.”