U.S.-Japan Council’s Emerging Leaders Program

📖 About the Program

The U.S.-Japan Council’s Emerging Leaders Program (ELP) cultivates and empowers the next generation of Japanese American leaders. Participants engage in leadership development, form meaningful professional connections, and build lasting personal friendships.

Each year, a new cohort of individuals aged 24-35 is selected to:

• Attend the U.S.-Japan Council Annual Conference.
• Become USJC Associate Members.
• Join a growing network of alumni committed to strengthening U.S.-Japan relations.

Through access to a broad network and exposure to timely and relevant topics, the program inspires participants to champion strong and positive U.S.-Japan ties in both their personal and professional lives.

Now in its 16th year, the program will welcome 10 to 12 exceptional Japanese American professionals to participate in the U.S.-Japan Council Annual Conference and Members Day in Honolulu. This prestigious gathering brings together leaders from government, business, academia, and nonprofit sectors to explore the current state and future of the U.S.-Japan partnership.

🎁 Benefits

Selected participants will receive the following benefits:

• Round-trip transportation to the USJC Annual Conference in Honolulu.
• Hotel accommodations and meals during the program.
• Full conference registration.
• Complimentary one-year Associate Membership to the U.S.-Japan Council (typically by invitation or nomination only).
• Access to exclusive ELP alumni programming and USJC events throughout the year.

✅ Eligibility Criteria

Candidates for the Emerging Leaders Program must meet the following criteria:

• Age: 24–35 years old at the time of the Conference.
• Citizenship: U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident.
• Residence: Residing in the United States or Japan, with the ability to travel to Honolulu for the Annual Conference.
• Passion for U.S.-Japan relations: Demonstrated through professional, academic, extracurricular, or community involvement.
• Leadership: Proven leadership experience in professional or community settings.
• Commitment: Dedication to remain actively involved in U.S.-Japan Council programs and initiatives.

📅 Application Timeline

Important Dates:

• Informational Sessions (optional):
  • Session 1: June 12, 2025, 5:00 – 6:00 PM PT
  • Session 2: June 18, 2025, 5:00 – 6:00 PM PT
• Application Deadline: June 29, 2025, 11:59 PM PT
• Application Review Period: July–August 2025
• Notifications: Mid-August 2025 (via email)
• Pre-Conference Orientation (virtual): September 11, 2025, 4:00 PM PT
• 2025 U.S.-Japan Council Annual Conference: October 13–17, 2025, in Honolulu, Hawaii
• Post-Conference Debrief (virtual): November 13, 2025, 3:00 PM PT

📝 Application Process

Applicants must complete the online application form and submit the following materials in English:

1. Resume.
2. Personal Statement.
3. Letter(s) of Recommendation (limit 2, may be submitted separately via email).
4. Short Video (limit 3 minutes; see prompt in the application form).
5. Optional: Other supporting materials.

Note: Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted.

Application Deadline:

June 29, 2025

🌐 Additional Information

For more details about the program, visit the official page: U.S.-Japan Council’s Emerging Leaders Program.

To apply, complete the application form here: Apply Now.

This program offers a unique opportunity to connect with leaders and contribute to strengthening U.S.-Japan relations. Don't miss your chance to be part of this prestigious initiative!

• Round-trip transportation to the USJC Annual Conference in Honolulu
• Hotel accommodations and meals during the program
• Full conference registration
• Selected participants will receive a complimentary one-year Associate Membership to the U.S.-Japan Council, a designation typically extended by nomination and invitation only.
• Participants will gain access to exclusive ELP alumni programming and USJC events throughout the year.