JASH Hosts Student Interns from Fukuoka Foreign Language College
From May 26–27, 2026, the Japan-America Society of Hawaii (JASH) hosted two student interns from Fukuoka Foreign Language College for a two-day internship experience. The internship was designed to give students hands-on exposure to nonprofit office work while encouraging cultural exchange and creative storytelling about connections between Japan and Hawaii.
On May 26, we welcomed interns Nanari Inoue and Mifune Tanaka as they participated in an orientation and brainstorming session at the JASH office. During this session, they were introduced to JASH’s mission, events, and programs. The interns also became familiar with the workplace environment and planned their assignments in preparation for their full project day.
On May 27, the interns took part in a full-day project session under the theme “Connecting Hawaii and Japan.” They created a collection of social media infographic posts designed for JASH’s online platforms using Canva graphics that explored Japanese culture, their experiences in Hawaii, and reflections on the relationship between Japan and Hawaii.
Through a three-part series, Nanari reflected on the contrast between Hawaii’s expressive aloha spirit and Japan’s culture of “silent kindness.” Inspired by peace education experiences in Hawaii and the philosophy of “wakei seijaku,” she explored how emotions and understanding can be communicated beyond words.
Mifune created a three-part series about the Spirit of Aloha, which she shared was one of the most memorable aspects of her time in Hawaii. Through the images, she explored the meaning of “aloha,” the values and feelings behind the aloha spirit, and her personal reflections on the kindness and warmth she experienced from the local community.
Mifune also created a five-part series highlighting Japanese culture rooted in Hawaii. The graphics explored the influence of Japan on local food, culture, architecture, and businesses throughout the islands. In the final section, she reflected on the strong cultural connections between Hawaii and Japan and the ways these influences continue to shape everyday life in Hawaii.
At the conclusion of the program, the interns reflected on their experience and shared insights about their time at JASH and in Hawaii.
What did you learn about Hawaii, Japan, or cultural exchange during this internship?
Nanari: “I learned that Japanese implicit ‘kuukiyomi’ or ‘reading the room’ culture is not universal, and that effective cultural exchange requires conscious communication.”
Mifune: “I learned the people’s kindness and beauty of Hawaii, and the attractiveness of the Japan-Hawaii cultural connection.”
In one sentence, how would you describe your internship experience at JASH?
Nanari: “My JASH internship was a transformative experience that allowed me to appreciate different forms or kindness and powerfully reinforced my passion for bridging cultures as a future film subtitle translator.”
Mifune: “It was a really valuable and educational experience for me. Thank you so much for the last two days! Mahalo!”
This internship provided students with an opportunity to engage in creative work in a nonprofit setting, strengthen cross-cultural understanding, and contribute meaningful content for JASH’s social media platforms. JASH is grateful for their participation and looks forward to continuing opportunities for youth engagement and cultural exchange in the future.
To learn more about internship opportunities at JASH, visit www.jashawaii.org/intern.
