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JCI JAPAN Global Youth UN Ambassadors' Visit to Governor Koike

On September 18, 2025, a group of five young Japanese delegates, members of the JCI JAPAN Global Youth UN Ambassador program, had the honor of visiting Tokyo Governor Koike Yuriko at her office. This ceremonial visit was part of their ongoing educational initiatives aimed at enhancing global awareness and fostering a culture of peace among the youth.

Understanding the JCI JAPAN Global Youth UN Ambassador Program

Launched in 2017 by the Japan Junior Chamber (日本青年会議所 - Nihon Seinen Kaigisho), this program targets middle and high school students to nurture future leaders capable of addressing international challenges. By participating in training programs domestically and abroad, the ambassadors are exposed to diverse cultures and values, thereby equipping them with perspectives necessary for problem-solving in a globalized society. This year, 20 ambassadors were selected from various regions in Japan to engage in significant educational endeavors.

In recognition of the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, the 2025 initiative places a focus on achieving “permanent world peace.” Notably, this year marked the first exchange program with international students, facilitating a unique partnership with JCI Germany, which allowed for shared experiences between students from Japan and Germany connected through similar historical backgrounds.

Highlights from the Visit

- Date: September 18, 2025
- Time: 5:30 PM - 5:45 PM
- Location: Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, Special Reception Room, 7th Floor
- Visitors:
- Ozaki Taisuke (Azabu High School, 3rd year)
- Kawabata Rei (Futaba Middle School, 3rd year)
- Nakamura Enmi (Tokyo Gakugei University International Secondary School, 1st year)
- Hara Natsuki (Tokyo Gakugei University International Secondary School, 3rd year)
- Ibatani Ruki (Tokai University Takanawadai High School, 1st year)
- Takasugi Ryuji (Chair of the Global Peace Conference, JCI Japan)

During their visit, the youth ambassadors shared insights from their recent training in Germany, notably their visit to the Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp. They expressed the profound impact this experience had on their understanding of war history and the importance of peace advocacy initiatives. Governor Koike responded positively, emphasizing the value of witnessing realities beyond media reports. She encouraged the young ambassadors to leverage their international exchanges for personal and collective growth.

Future Initiatives

Looking ahead, the Global Youth UN Ambassadors are set to continue their advocacy activities until November 2025. Key upcoming events include:

• - Awareness Activities: Ongoing until November 2025
• - Reporting at the JCI World Conference in Tunis: November 7, 2025, in Tunis, Tunisia
• - Activity Reporting Meeting and Farewell Ceremony: November 15, 2025, at JICA Global Plaza, Tokyo

To keep updated with the ambassadors' activities, you can follow their journey on social media through their Instagram handle: @jcijp_gyambassador. The JCI JAPAN Global Youth UN Ambassadors are committed to making a positive impact through awareness, education, and international collaboration, shaping a brighter future for Japan and beyond.