〜GKJN Activities at the General Counsel of Japan~
After the 1st GKJN Cup on June 5th, with no time to breathe, I am looking forward to the 2nd GKJN Cup through a review of strengths and room for improvements.
Our activities has been picked up by the Counsel General and was invited as a guest speaker at the 27th Midwest Forum held on Monday, June 27th. For the last 20+ years, I was only doing Judo, so this was my first experience of a presentation…and it was in English.
(1) What is the “Midwest Forum?”
This event gathers individuals that are related to US Japan relationship within the 10 Midwest States that the Counsel is responsible for. The discussion topics include how to understand Japan, promoting Japanese culture, and support of US Japan Exchange Programs. Why am I a guest speaker…???
(2) Attendees
The attendees included Mr. Tajima, the Counsel General as well as Mr. Shibata responsible for Public Relations and Honorable Counsels of the Midwest States, US Japan Association, JCCC, Japan Foundation, JETRO, etc, etc, totaling around 60 people and the majority are non-Japanese.
The state of the meeting. Of course, everyone is serious !!
I was the last speaker for this day.
The state of the meeting. Of course, everyone is serious !!
(3) Game ON!!!
My first ever presentation was the same as my debut at the Kodokan Cup (Japan’s Highest Judo Championship) Presentation and the Judo Match are the same. How can I do my best. Of course a loooot of practice. The real deal was only 9 minutes and 30 seconds which included 1) Self Introduction and my Judo Career, 2) The reason why Chicago, 3) The 1st GKJN Cup, and 4) Future activities. I went through all of this just with my will power. My self evaluation was 60 (out of 100) but the audience had compliments that included “Great Presentation”, “Great Future Plans” which saved my day.
Basic Principles of JUDO
(4) Presentation Contents
Click on the link below and you’ll see me in action.
(5) Last
I was only able to perform at a 60% level, but the most important thing is “getting it through” which was successful. I tried to speak slowly where the audience was able to pickup most of my message. Mission? Yes, accomplished!!
I wish that through these events, more and more Americans understand and agree to our activities making kids around the world happy through JUDO.
But also this event was a precious experience for myself as well.
By making a “public” appearance in this fashion, it does give me an opportunity to objectively look at my activities to seek for a better future.
Everything is a challenge. Your continued support is highly appreciated!!
