Reflecting on my time back in September at the 2024 Convención Panamericana Nikkei (COPANI) in Asuncion, Paraguay, I’m filled with gratitude for the unforgettable experience and the incredible people I met. Organized by the Pan American Nikkei Association (PANA), COPANI brings together hundreds of Nikkei from across the Americas and beyond every two years to foster cultural exchange and discuss shared challenges and opportunities. First held in 1981, this biennial convention has become a vital platform for strengthening the global Nikkei community. What I gained during those few days went far beyond networking. It deepened my understanding of community, culture, and what it means to be Nikkei on a global scale. 

I’d like to take a moment to express my gratitude to everyone who welcomed me so warmly and to share some of my thoughts on this incredible experience. I was fortunate to attend COPANI thanks to the support of PANA (Pan American Nikkei Association) USA and the Nikkei Youth Association (NYA). PANA USA connects Nikkei communities across the Americas, while NYA fosters leadership and networking among young Nikkei. I encourage other young Nikkei to explore these organizations for opportunities like COPANI.

Nikkei Team USA photo at the Embassy of Japan in Asunción, Paraguay. From the left: Haruaki Yuminaga, me, Remi Hayashi, Minami Hayashi, Kysa Hayashi

Omotenashi in Paraguay

Over just four days, I was embraced by a diverse community of kind, ambitious, and hardworking people from across the Americas and beyond. Their warmth and openness, especially in Paraguay, where hospitality and kindness are deeply embedded in the culture, made me feel like family from the moment we met.

I felt the true meaning of omotenashi, the Japanese concept of thoughtful, selfless hospitality. It deeply resonated with me. Experiencing this cultural openness expanded my worldview and reminded me of the power of Oñondivepa, or coming together, to grow as one.

Day 1: Opening Ceremony of the XXI COPANI 2024, “Oñondivepa.” Ready to roll with headsets for live translation from Spanish! The conference was held in Spanish as majority of countries in attendance were Spanish-speaking, but simultaneous translation was available in multiple languages)

Personal Nikkei Insights

Before COPANI, I had little exposure to Latin American culture and Nikkei from other countries. COPANI gave me the opportunity to better understand myself and what it means to be Nikkei on a global scale. Meeting people from countries as varied as Brazil, Argentina, Peru, Switzerland, Canada, Mexico, and many more, each with their own unique stories but shared roots in Japanese heritage, was eye-opening.  

Nikkei Youth Symposium with Brazil Nikkei Youth Representative Aymi Tanaka

Despite our different cultural upbringing, I realized we all faced similar struggles—balancing our Japanese roots with the countries that raised us. 

From the Youth Nikkei panel, I was struck by the idea that we are not defined by fractions of our heritage. We don’t have to think of ourselves as part-Japanese and part-something else; instead, we can fully embrace both identities, being 100 percent Japanese and 100 percent American (in my case). 

This mindset of owning both parts of myself has been empowering, and hearing the stories of other Nikkei youth made me realize that I am not alone in this journey. I felt an instant connection with my new friends who share a passion for celebrating our Japanese heritage while carrying the responsibility towards contributing to the communities and countries that raised us. 

Professional and Cultural Responsibility

Nikkei Youth Simposium Ice-Breaking Global Networking Session

Beyond personal connections, COPANI provided invaluable lessons in leadership, entrepreneurship, and cultural responsibility. I was introduced to the concept of intoku—quiet, humble giving—that remains central to Japanese culture. We discussed how this principle can be shared globally, influencing how we give to others meaningfully. Although I’ve always lived by this principle, learning its name has prompted me to start thinking about how I can share this part of my culture with the world. 

I also gained practical insights from inspiring professionals like Sachi Tanaka, who reminded us: “We STOP at what draws ATTENTION, and STAY at what gives us VALUE.” I see myself applying her lessons not just as a business student but in how I will communicate with the people in my life. 

And Martín Akamine’s advice—“Algún día extrañas hoy. You’ll look back on this day and remember, so think about what you’re going to do now for that day”—stayed with me, reinforcing the importance of being present and intentional. I could go on and on about what I learned from these inspirational people who lead with both ambition and a sense of community. 

Renewed Purpose

I left COPANI with not only new friendships and knowledge, but also a renewed sense of purpose. I’m inspired to take responsibility for the future of our community while honoring our roots. 

Local Terere Shop with Team Paraguay, who kindly gave me a fun tour of life in Asunción

As a business student with aspirations of giving back to my communities, the people I met and wisdom I gained at COPANI have laid a strong foundation for my journey ahead. The theme of Oñondivepa—all together—captures the heart of what I experienced and what I hope to contribute to our strong and unified global Nikkei community.

© 2024 Lily Ichise