#Japan #Chiyoda #KPMG Japan #Junior Golf #KPMG Ambassadors

KPMG Japan Unveils 2026 Junior Golf Ambassadors Program

KPMG Japan, based in Chiyoda, Tokyo, has recently announced the launch of its KPMG Junior Golf Ambassadors program. This initiative aims to support young golfers aspiring to play on the world stage. During a ceremony to celebrate the new ambassadors, KPMG's joint chairmen, Hiroyuki Yamada and Masahiko Chino, highlighted their commitment to nurturing tennis talent in Japan.

The program aims to strengthen KPMG Japan's efforts in supporting golf competitions and hopes to encourage the next generation of golfers who dream of competing internationally. Through this initiative, KPMG Japan has partnered with Yuka Saso, a special advisor and professional golfer, to provide ongoing guidance and support throughout the year, rather than just a one-time event.

KPMG Japan will provide partial funding for competition-related expenses and facilitate junior golfers' participation in various domestic and international events, making it easier for them to pursue their academic and athletic ambitions simultaneously. The search for ambassadors began last October, in cooperation with the Japan High School and Junior High School Golf Federation, and underwent a rigorous selection process that included document screenings and interviews, ultimately resulting in the selection of ten ambassadors from grades 7 to 12, or ages approximately 12 to 18.

During the announcement ceremony, chairperson Hiroyuki Yamada elaborated on the program's vision and annual plans. Additionally, Katsushi Takahashi, the executive director of the Japan High School and Junior High School Golf Federation, expressed his support and expectations for the young ambassadors. They were joined by sponsored athletes Yuka Saso and Keita Nakajima, who encouraged the ambassadors with heartfelt messages.

Yuka Saso addressed the group, saying, "Talking to each one of you during the interviews was an amazing experience. I look forward to meeting all of you soon. I hope that you enjoy playing golf during your upcoming matches and practices." Similarly, Keita Nakajima shared his own journey, stating: "Like many of you, I have pursued my dreams since childhood, and I've been playing on the PGA Tour since this year. Let's work hard towards achieving our dreams together and make the golf community thrive!"

After the speeches, the ambassadors introduced themselves and shared their aspirations, at which point Masahiko Chino presented each with an official certificate recognizing their new roles.

The KPMG Junior Golf Ambassadors program is set to officially kick off in April 2026, and will include various annual events such as online events with Yuka Saso, golf training camps, and competitions throughout the year.

The selected ambassadors are as follows (based on their grade and alphabetical order as of April 2026):

1. Anna Iwanaga (3rd Year High School)
2. Miyu Sato (1st Year High School)
3. Hina Takeda (1st Year High School)
4. Manaho Nakayama (1st Year High School)
5. Rinka Iwanaga (3rd Year Junior High)
6. Misaki Sano (3rd Year Junior High)
7. Ran Matsuda (3rd Year Junior High)
8. Rio Asada (1st Year Junior High)
9. Maho Shiiyam (1st Year Junior High)
10. Natsuki Takahashi (1st Year Junior High)

Through this program, KPMG Japan contributes to the growth and education of youth through golf, aiming to develop junior golfers and enhance the golf industry and sports in Japan.

About KPMG Japan

KPMG Japan represents the member firms of KPMG International in Japan. It comprises eleven professional firms specializing in audit, tax, and advisory services. KPMG Japan's professionals work collaboratively, leveraging their specialized knowledge and skills to address clients' management challenges while also utilizing KPMG's global network to provide valuable services. The member firms operating in Japan include KPMG Azsa, KPMG Tax Corporation, KPMG Advisory Holdings, KPMG Consulting, KPMG FAS, KPMG Forensic & Risk Advisory, KPMG Azusa Sustainability, KPMG Healthcare Japan, KPMG Social Insurance Labor Consulting, KPMG Ignition Tokyo, and KPMG Advisory Lighthouse.