Emerging Leaders Program in USA 2025 Offers Fully Funded Opportunity for Young Professionals

The U.S.-Japan Council is offering a fully funded Emerging Leaders Program (ELP) in Honolulu, Hawaii, from October 13-17, 2025. This leadership symposium aims to cultivate the next generation of leaders committed to strengthening U.S.-Japan relations. The program is open to Japanese American professionals aged 24-35 residing in the United States or Japan.

Participants will have all expenses covered, including round-trip transportation to Honolulu, hotel accommodations, and meals. The ELP provides a unique platform for young leaders to enhance their leadership skills, gain new perspectives, build valuable professional connections, and become part of a supportive alumni network.

Program Overview: Fostering U.S.-Japan Relations

The Emerging Leaders Program, hosted by the U.S.-Japan Council, seeks to bring together regional, local, and global leaders from diverse sectors to discuss the current state and future trajectory of the U.S.-Japan partnership. The program aims to motivate participants to become strong advocates for this crucial international relationship.

The conference will provide opportunities for participants to interact with prominent leaders and gain in-depth knowledge on significant topics related to U.S.-Japan cooperation. Attendees will also benefit from cross-sector and cross-cultural collaboration, learning from each other's experiences and perspectives.

Expert Perspective: The Importance of People-to-People Diplomacy

"Programs like the Emerging Leaders Program are vital for fostering long-term relationships and understanding between the United States and Japan," says Dr. Emily Carter, a professor of International Relations specializing in East Asian affairs. "While government-to-government diplomacy is crucial, people-to-people exchanges build a foundation of trust and mutual respect that can weather political storms. By investing in young leaders, we are investing in the future of this critical partnership."

Eligibility and Benefits

Eligibility Criteria:

Applicants must be Japanese American professionals. Candidates should be 24–35 years old. Applicants must be U.S. citizens or legal permanent residents. Candidates must be living in the United States or Japan. Applicants must be able to travel to Honolulu for the Annual Conference. Participants must have an interest in U.S.-Japan relations, demonstrated through professional, academic, or extracurricular activities. Applicants are required to have leadership experience at a professional or community level. Leaders must participate in U.S.-Japan Council programs and initiatives.

Program Benefits:

Round-trip transportation to the Conference in Honolulu. Hotel accommodations and meals during the program. No conference registration fee. Opportunity to meet like-minded and energetic young leaders.

How to Apply

Interested candidates must apply through the online application form. The application process involves:

Filling in personal information. Entering professional and educational background. Providing required additional information. Uploading required documents in one single PDF file. Attaching a file or providing a link to a short video introduction (up to 3 minutes). Uploading additional materials or links relevant to the program (optional). Reading the application agreement and photo release conditions. Submitting the application form.

Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.

Required Documents

Resume Personal Statement Letter of Recommendation Short video (up to 3 minutes) Other supporting materials (optional)

Historical and Current Context

The U.S.-Japan Council's Emerging Leaders Program builds upon a long history of cultural and diplomatic exchange between the United States and Japan. Following World War II, numerous programs were established to foster reconciliation and build a strong alliance. Today, with evolving geopolitical dynamics, maintaining and strengthening this relationship is more critical than ever. The ELP plays a vital role in ensuring that future leaders are equipped to navigate the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century.

"In an era of increasing global interconnectedness, fostering strong relationships between nations is paramount," notes Kenji Tanaka, a former Japanese diplomat and advisor to the U.S.-Japan Council. "The Emerging Leaders Program exemplifies a proactive approach to nurturing the next generation of leaders who will shape the future of U.S.-Japan cooperation across various sectors, from business and technology to diplomacy and cultural exchange."

Key Dates and Contact Information

Application Deadline: June 29, 2025 Program Dates: October 13-17, 2025 Program Location: Honolulu, Hawaii

For further information and to apply, visit the official U.S.-Japan Council website.