#Japan #Tokyo #Friendship Reporters #KnK #International Understanding

Celebrating 30 Years of Friendship Reporters

The Friendship Reporters project, organized by KnK (Non-Governmental Organization for Children Without Borders), is an inspiring initiative aimed at fostering friendship among children across different countries by involving them in international reporting. This unique program, which has been operating since 1995, has successfully sent over 70 young reporters to countries such as Cambodia, the Philippines, and Jordan. The culmination of their experiences will be highlighted in a special event commemorating 30 fantastic years of this impactful project.

The upcoming talk event, scheduled for November 23, 2025, will be held at Sacred Heart Global Plaza in Tokyo, utilizing a hybrid format that allows participants to join either in person or online. The event aims to bridge generations of reporters by sharing profound insights gained from their international experiences. At this pivotal milestone, it is expected that the attendees will reflect on how participation in the Friendship Reporters program has shaped their lives and worldviews.

The event will be structured into two main parts:

Part One: Changes and Growth Through Friendship Reporters

The first segment will be moderated by Hiroshi Nakamichi, a former reporter from 2005. Recent reporters such as Yu Hatano (2024), Natsuwa Matsumoto (2023), Ayu Ochiai (2018), and Fumika Onuma (2007) will share their personal stories about the transformations they experienced through their reporting journeys.
They will discuss their discoveries during their assignments and reveal the paths they chose thereafter, reflecting on how the program has been pivotal in developing their ambitions and lives.

Part Two: Perspectives Gained Within Japan

The second portion, moderated by Natsuki Yasuda (2003), will feature alumni like Ayu Ochiai (2018), Riku Tazaki (2010), Fumika Onuma (2007), and Hiroshi Nakamichi (2005). They will delve into their current professions and how their global volunteer experiences inform their understanding of domestic and international issues.
This sharing aims to illuminate the evolving viewpoints of these individuals and provide insight into how their participation in the program has changed not only their lives but also their perspectives on society and interpersonal connections.

Event Details

• - Date: November 23, 2025 (Sunday, National Holiday)
• - Time: 15:00–17:00 (Doors open at 14:30)
• - Format: Hybrid (in-person and online)
• - Location: Sacred Heart University, 4th Building, Room 4-2, Tokyo, Japan (Capacity: 50 people)

- Address: 4-2-24 Hiroo, Shibuya, Tokyo (1-minute walk from Hiroo Station, Hibiya Line)

• - Participation Fee: Free
• - Registration: Required for both in-person and online attendance by filling out the application form by November 20, 2025.

We recommend this event for anyone interested in volunteering abroad or deepening their understanding of diverse cultures and perspectives. This anniversary event not only celebrates the accomplishments of the Friendship Reporters but also emphasizes the importance of dialogue and understanding among people. We hope participants will leave inspired to connect and foster friendships across cultures.

About KnK

KnK was established in 1997 as an international cooperation NGO headquartered in Shinjuku, Tokyo. Over the years, it has provided educational opportunities to more than 230,000 children in 15 countries and regions, promoting self-reliance and social understanding. Currently, they continue this essential work in six regions. The guiding philosophy of “growing together” aligns their initiative, ensuring the project significantly impacts both international communities and domestic future generations.

We warmly welcome all to partake in this meaningful dialogue and celebration!