2013 JET (Japan Exchange and Teaching) Welcome Back Reception
On November 22nd, 2013, Ambassador Okuda hosted a welcome back reception for JET (Japan Exchange and Teaching) participants returning to Canada.
The reception was an opportunity for newly returned JETs to share their experiences and connect with JET alumni, members of the Ottawa Japanese Community and friends of the JET programme in Ottawa.
In his opening remarks, Ambassador Okuda welcomed back this year’s JETs and expressed his appreciation of the “JET family” for their continued support of the programme.
“JET Alumni are some of the most powerful advocates for the importance of cross-cultural exchanges in building bridges between countries,” said Ambassador Okuda. “It is because of your dedication that the JET programme has become one of the world’s most successful and distinguished exchange and teaching programs.”
Representatives of the 10 returning JETs from Ottawa delivered brief remarks sharing their experiences in Japan. These included:
- Mr. Kendall Bharath, posted in Hokkaido Prefecture
- Ms. Stephanie Boucher, posted in Hokkaido Prefecture
- Ms. Viviane Focsaneanu, posted in Nagasaki Prefecture
- Ms. Dana Irvine, posted in Miyazaki Prefecture
- Ms. Rebecca McKercher, posted in Okayama Prefecture
- Ms. Thanujah Yogarajah, posted in Gunma Prefecture
In his speech, Mr. Bharath reflected on his three years teaching in Haboro, a small fishing town in northern Hokkaido and expressed the pride he took in the growth of his students. It was evident from all the remarks that participants felt truly privileged to take part in the program, and that their time in Japan was a memorable and rewarding experience.
Mr. Alex Svetlovsky, President of Ottawa JET Alumni Association (JETAA) (http://jetaaottawa.ca), discussed the importance of maintaining connected to the JET community and encouraged returnees to take part in the many events hosted by the Ottawa JETAA.
After Ambassador Okuda gave a toast, guests enjoyed Japanese cuisine, shared memories of their students, schools and local communities in Japan and discussed opportunities to take part in Japanese cultural events in Ottawa.
The Embassy of Japan is pleased to welcome the newest JET participants back to Canada and wishes them continued success in their endeavours.
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