Engaging in Global Peacebuilding from Hiroshima: A Dialogue and Film Event

On November 28 (Friday), a talk event and film screening will take place in Hiroshima, focusing on efforts to resolve conflicts in regions like Palestine and Somalia. Organized by Accept International, a renowned NPO that has garnered attention for its work showcased in programs like "Jounetsu Tairiku," this marks the organization's first event in Hiroshima.

In a world divided by conflict, can dialogue truly lead to resolution? Since its establishment in 2011, Accept International has continually engaged with children and youth ensnared by armed groups in conflict zones worldwide, assisting them in laying down their weapons and reintegrating into society as ambassadors of peace. Currently, their activities span Somalia, Yemen, Palestine, Kenya, Indonesia, and Colombia, while also working towards the establishment of international norms regarding the rights and education of youth in conflict areas.

During this event, Takuma Yamazaki, the organization’s Director of Communications and a professional with on-ground experience in Africa, will discuss the motivations behind Japan’s proactive engagement in global peacebuilding efforts. He will elaborate on the dialogue approaches taken by Accept International and share insights on engaging with overwhelming ‘others’ based on invaluable experiences acquired through their work. Additionally, a short documentary capturing the organization's activities will be screened, allowing attendees to witness these endeavors visually.

Hiroshima holds substantial significance for Accept International as a city fostering thoughts of peace from Japan. Notably, in August 2025, the organization hosted a dialogue meeting in Hiroshima with young leaders from key Palestinian parties and civil societies to discuss peace initiatives. This event allows for reflection on that experience, which served to inspire and inform future peacebuilding actions.

Event Overview

- Date and Time: November 28, 2025 (Friday) from 18:30 to 20:00 (Registration starts at 18:15)
- Location: VILLENT Hiroshima, 1-11-5 Hikarimachi Higashi-ku, Hiroshima
- Speaker: Takuma Yamazaki, Director of Communications, Accept International
- Participation Fee: 500 yen (cash expected on the day; please bring exact change if possible)
- Capacity: Approximately 30 people (Limited slots available; early registration is recommended)

A networking session is scheduled after the event at a nearby restaurant (additional fees apply). If you're interested in joining the networking session, please indicate this when registering.

Background on Takuma Yamazaki

Takuma Yamazaki, who leads communication efforts at Accept International, graduated from Keio University specializing in political science with a focus on African politics. Inspired by encounters with families of massacre victims in Bosnia and Herzegovina, he dedicated himself to conflict resolution and joined Accept International in 2016. His seven-and-a-half-year international experience includes supporting the reintegration of gang and terrorism convicts in Kenya and Somalia, as well as preventive measures against radicalization through income generation for unemployed youth. Currently, he endeavors to expand support for the organization in Japan, leveraging his past experiences.

Reflecting on Peace Initiatives in Hiroshima

In August 2025, Accept International invited 14 young leaders formally chosen from key Palestinian parties and organizations to visit Hiroshima and Tokyo, creating opportunities for them to engage in dialogue regarding peace. They visited the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and reflected on their experiences in Gaza, reinforcing their resolve to influence Gaza's future positively.

Participating in discussions with third-generation atomic bomb survivors allowed them to learn first-hand about their family histories, the lasting impacts of the atomic bombing, and inspiring stories of hope despite despair. The exchanges provided stemmed new perspectives on conveying their positions and learning from others' histories.

Visiting a place like Hiroshima—80 years post-war—offered unique insights from its historical experiences, strengthening their aspirations for Gaza’s future. The gratitude expressed by participants upon returning home, including reflections written in poetry about their experiences in both Gaza and Hiroshima, speaks volumes.

A Call for Participation

With the end of 2025 approaching—an important year marking Hiroshima's 80th anniversary—the event will delve into global turmoil and Japan's unique potential for peacebuilding through dialogues with others considered foreign. We invite you to join and engage in these meaningful discussions.

For registration, please follow the link provided here.

Media Inquiries

Accept International regularly hosts online and offline events for general attendees, including press members. We welcome inquiries about interviews and offer visual materials from our activities. Please feel free to reach out.

Support Our Mission

Our endeavors are generously supported by contributions from individuals. We invite you to consider becoming an Accept Ambassador with monthly donations starting from 1,500 yen or making one-time contributions. Your help is vital for us to continue breaking the cycle of hatred and promote peace.

Accept International Organization Overview
Established: April 2017 (Predecessor: Japan-Somalia Youth Organization founded in September 2011)
Address: 6A YOU Building, 1-5-7 Nihonbashi Horidome-cho, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
Representative: Yoshio Nagai
Major Activity Countries: Somalia, Yemen, Kenya, Indonesia, Colombia, Palestine, Japan
Website: Accept International
Contact Email: [email protected]
Phone Number: 03-4500-8161

Join us in our mission to contribute positively to the global community!