2027 Japanese American Leadership Delegation to Japan (applications open until August 17)

2026/7/23
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2027 JAPANESE AMERICAN LEADERSHIP DELEGATION TO JAPAN 
24th DELEGATION 
February 6 to February 13, 2027
 
The Japanese American Leadership Delegation (JALD) program provides the opportunity for a select group of Japanese American leaders from across the U.S. to travel to Japan to engage with Japanese leaders in the business, government, academic, non-profit and cultural sectors. The trip also allows Japanese leaders to gain a greater understanding of multicultural America through the experiences of a diverse group of Japanese Americans. Upon their return, delegates collaborate with JALD alumni, the local consulates, the U.S.-Japan Council (USJC) and local and national community organizations to continue strengthening ties between the U.S. and Japan.

The 2027 Delegation will include Japanese Americans who are top leaders in their professions, have had moderate to extensive experience in U.S.-Japan relations, and will be committed to furthering the U.S.-Japan relationship upon their return. The 2027 program seeks senior leaders from a range of sectors, including local, state, regional, or federal government (both appointed and elected officials); philanthropy, nonprofit, and education; technology, AI, and startups; sustainability and energy; and business, finance, and investment. Priority will be given to candidates from areas not represented in previous delegations, with a strong commitment to collaborate with Japanese Americans nationwide. The 2027 Delegation seeks to select a diverse delegation of prominent Japanese American leaders nationally.


2027 SCHEDULE 
The trip to Japan including travel will be from February 6 (Sat) to 13 (Sat), 2027 (except Guam: departing February 7). 
Orientation – January 15 (Fri) – January 16 (Sat), 2027 in Los Angeles. This is mandatory for all delegates. Non-participation in the orientation will disqualify an individual from traveling with the delegation.
 

SUBMISSION OF APPLICATIONS/NOMINATIONS

Deadline for receipt of applications: August 17, 2026

Applications should be submitted by email to the local consulate office based upon the applicant’s residence. For residents of Washington, D.C., applications should be submitted to the Embassy of Japan.  

For applicants based in Hawaii, please send your application by e-mail to general.affairs@hl.mofa.go.jp.

For more information and to access the application form, please see the following: