Transforming Children's Futures Through One Day of Encounters

One Day School, a distinctive initiative founded in Japan, focuses on providing children with invaluable cultural experiences that can shape their futures. Recently, the organization has announced the publication of its first book, titled Smiles Know No Borders: The Cabaret of Challenges by Cecilia Mama and One Day School, set to release on November 22, 2025, through Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP).

The book is more than a collection of stories; it's a reflection of the profound impact that a single day can have on a child. Under the guiding philosophy that ‘a single encounter can change a child's future,’ the One Day School initiative has touched the lives of over 1,000 children across Japan and Taiwan.

Mission and Vision

The One Day School's mission is to ensure that every child has the opportunity to connect with the world, regardless of economic background or geographic location. This experiential learning platform allows children to engage in diverse activities, creating meaningful interactions with peers from different cultures.

Through the lens of personal stories, the book captures moments where children felt loved and valued, fundamentally changing their self-perception and resilience. These transformative experiences depict what it means to belong and the power of community in fostering self-esteem.

Upcoming Challenges: The Tokyo School Project

The publication also heralds a new chapter for One Day School, as it prepares to launch a permanent location in Tokyo by 2026. This permanent establishment aims to be a hub of multicultural education, providing an ‘open learning’ environment where children can thrive irrespective of their familial circumstances. The vision extends further to address educational disparities, with plans to reach out to various regions in Japan that lack such resources.

Features of the Book

- True Stories of Transformation: Accounts of individuals who experienced life-changing moments in just one day.
- Voices from Diverse Backgrounds: Personal experiences and messages from participants and various stakeholders.
- In-Depth Insights: Interviews, behind-the-scenes details, and the educational philosophy are meticulously documented.
- Cecilia Mama's Philosophy: For the first time, Cecilia shares her philosophy centered on ‘love, learning, and empathy.’

Special Events in Celebration of the Book Release

To celebrate the release, One Day School is hosting two unique events:

1. Book Launch Dinner
- Date: November 22, 2025, 18:00 - 20:30
- Location: Foreign Correspondents' Club of Japan (FCCJ)
- Highlights: Book presentations, author talks, guest discussions, and a networking dinner.

Special guests, including educators and community leaders, will discuss self-esteem in children and the future of multicultural education.

2. New Year Exchange Meeting - Smiles Know No Borders 2026
- Date: January 10, 2026, 18:00 - 20:30
- Location: FCCJ
- Highlights: Reports on activities from 2025, a book talk, and the presentation of the Tokyo opening plans.

This event will offer an opportunity for participants to connect personally with the educators who have supported the initiative.

Community Support and Endorsements

Many influential figures from various sectors have endorsed the initiative:

- Akie Abe, former First Lady of Japan, commended the project for delivering experiences of love to children, believing it will gently transform the world.
- Makiko Fujino, former member of the House of Councillors, expressed her appreciation for the platform creating mutual recognition among children from varied backgrounds.
- Dr. Kimiko Deguchi, a pediatrician, highlighted the necessity of promoting self-esteem among children, pointing to One Day School as a model for ideal education.
- Various community leaders echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the need for inclusive and transformative learning environments.

About One Day School

Founded by Cecilia Watanabe, One Day School emerged from a desire to connect children and adults through love and hope, allowing them to experience the world. With activities that promote learning through playful engagement, the organization aspires to instill an understanding of cultural differences and commonalities among children.

For details about the organization and the book launch, visit One Day School's website.

Contact Information:
One Day School Headquarters
Email: [email protected]
Location: 10-8 Ichibancho, Chiyoda City, Tokyo

Join us in this vital mission to change children's futures through meaningful encounters—one day at a time.