To thank the host families and the local communities, World Campus – Japan (WCJ) participants will stage a “Thank-you Event” in each city! This small gesture allows us to give a little back to the community that graciously hosted us. The musical performance not only includes English songs but also a few popular Japanese songs and dance! WCJ participants worked tirelessly for two days preparing for the big event.

Ponyo song and dance –

Amanda S. (Indonesia) is practicing her solo in the famous “Ponyo” song from the popular Miyazaki film. This children song also includes an amusing dance!

“Ganbare Nippon” –

It might look a bit strange, but “Ganbare Nippon” is guaranteed to energize the Japanese audience! Herbing (Kenya), Kyle (South Korea), and Eric (Luxembourg) are looking sharp as our superstars.

Great job everyone on the training! It was difficult, but will be worth it in the end with a great event that is good fun for all!

March 9^th, 2009: It’s about to start!

It began with a room full of unfamiliar peoples from strange lands. In less than one hour, the strangers became close enough to hold hands and even touch another person’s nose with their tongue. Ah, the power of group building games!

Before the official Suita city welcoming ceremony, World Campus – Japan participants, staff, and LOC members had the chance to get to know each other with games like “mingle mingle mingle”. The game encouraged everyone to be active and forced them to go beyond their comfort zone. What a great remedy for the jetlag!

It begins!

Woohoo! After many hours of eager anticipation, the participants are finally here and the Spring 09 tour is under way! We received a hearty welcome from Mr. Sakaguchi, the mayor of Suita, and the host families! Although very tired from travel, everyone was extremely excited to meet their host families and the mayor.

“Welcome to Suita city. I hope your visit will help internationalize our city.” – Mr. Sakaguchi (Suita mayor)