#Japan #Tokyo #Myanmar English Salon #ganas #Development Media

Event Overview

The online English conversation program "Myanmar English Salon," operated by the nonprofit organization Development Media, is set to host its unique event, "Connecting Summer Discussion Day," on July 5, 2026. This event will take place simultaneously in Tokyo, Kyoto, and Fukuoka, along with an online option through Zoom.

The event aims to showcase the stories of three Japanese individuals who have been actively involved in Myanmar, fostering a dialogue around the current situation in the country and exploring the nature of grassroots international cooperation.

Context: Continuing Engagement with Myanmar After the Military Coup

Since the military coup in February 2021, many youths in Myanmar have lost opportunities for work and education. In response to this challenging environment, Development Media launched the "Myanmar English Salon" in September 2021, focusing on international cooperation and development. Over the years, they have sent approximately 6.5 million yen to Myanmar, including providing warm meals to 288 internally displaced persons (IDP) in camps.

"Connecting Summer Discussion Day" serves as a platform to reflect on what it means to remain involved with Myanmar through personal stories and live updates from local facilitators in both Myanmar and Thailand.

Event Details: A Hybrid Gathering Connects Japan and Myanmar

Event Name: Connecting Summer Discussion Day - "The Stories We Received from Myanmar + Live Reporting from the Field"
Date: July 5, 2026
Time: 14:00 - 16:00 (Japan Time)
Venues:

• - Tokyo: JICA Global Plaza, Ichigaya
• - Kyoto: kokoka Kyoto International Community House
• - Fukuoka: GOOD SPACE (Hakata Station)
• - Online: Zoom

Participants can opt to join only Part 1 or Part 2, or even drop in and out as their schedules allow. Attendees at the physical venues will be offered Myanmar tea and sweets during the intermission between parts.

Participation Fees:

• - Free for members of the ganas Supporters Club
• - 1,000 yen for general attendees (includes attendance at the venue, online access, and recorded viewing)

All sessions will be recorded, allowing those unable to attend on the day to watch later by registering in advance.

Program Breakdown

Part 1: Stories from Three Who Continue to Engage with Myanmar (in Japanese)
In this section, three individuals - a Japanese language teacher, a volunteer, and an employee - will share their paths to engagement with Myanmar, reasons for their ongoing involvement, and the lessons they've received from their experiences. Expected speakers include:

• - Sae Matsumoto: A Japanese language teacher who has been active in dental health initiatives along the Myanmar-Thailand border since 2011 and established a friendship group in Fukuoka.
• - Soma Ichihara: An employee who worked at the Japanese Embassy in Myanmar and now teaches Japanese on weekends while maintaining connections with former students.
• - Mutsumi Tobimatsu: A member of the Myanmar English Salon team who teaches Japanese while supporting Burmese youth living in refugee camps, aiming for their future dreams of visiting Japan.

Part 2: Live Reporting from the Field & Small Group Activities (in English with Japanese support)
This segment facilitates connections with Myanmar facilitators residing in Myanmar and Thailand, showcasing reports on the Myanmar English Salon's latest activities and updates on current living conditions and support efforts. Participants will then engage in small group activities, including fun English games and interactions with Myanmar facilitators, accommodating those less proficient in English.

Availability of Recorded Viewing

The event will be recorded, enabling those who can't attend live to catch up later. Registration allows access to the recorded sessions to accommodate international participants and busy schedules.

About the Myanmar English Salon

The Myanmar English Salon promotes English learning and cultural exchange between Japanese participants and Myanmar youths. Over 700 participants have benefited from this program over five years, enhancing their English communication skills while gaining insights into Myanmar's history, culture, and current issues.

About the Organization

Organization Name: Development Media
Representative: Taichi Nagamitsu
Established: August 17, 2012
Activities: Operations of the NPO media specializing in developing countries and international cooperation, like "ganas," and organizing language charity programs such as the Myanmar English Salon.
Website: Development Media

For inquiries regarding this matter, please contact:
Contact Person: Kiyoko Takayanagi, Myanmar English Salon, ganas Supporters Club
Email: [email protected]