02/11/2025
Hi everyone, Rachel here from the 68th batch of IATSS FORUM! ππΌ
Checking in from Suzuka as we begin the final stretch of our journey: the Group Study! Itβs hard to believe six weeks have already flown by. The weatherβs getting chilly, the leaves are turning red, and the programme is shifting into a new season.
While Japan has long been a popular destination for many Singaporeans, itβs actually my first time here. Looking back, I feel deeply grateful for the opportunity to travel across different prefectures and cities (from urban hubs to quiet rural towns) and for all the moments that have shaped this experience.
My reflections so far have often drawn parallels between Singapore and Japan, our responsibility towards the ASEAN region as a collective community, and what it means to practice leadership with care and courage in times of uncertainty.
Iβm especially cherishing new friendships, and the awe of seeing how people and places evolve together.
What has stuck with me:
π§π»π§π» Walking through Kamishima Island in Toba led by children as our 'Shimakko' guides taught me that revitalising rural areas facing depopulation is not just about infrastructure, but about nurturing belonging and developing a sense of pride among the community's future generations. As Hui Ying would put it, "Connection is social infrastructure". β€οΈ
πͺπΌπ·β»οΈ Visiting the Tohoku region (North of Japan) and witnessing how bold leadership and communities have come together to rebuild their towns after the Great East Japan Earthquake in 2011.
One of the most inspiring stops was a local winery in Minamisanriku; instead of competing for survival, the owner built an ecosystem of collaboration, linking local producers, fisheries, craftspeople to boost tourism across different towns.
In another town Rikuzen-takata, we visited a community centre made possible by donations from Singapore after the disaster, complete with a tiny Merlion replica out front (what a lovely surprise!). The trip to Tohoku reminds me to keep finding and sharing the often-hidden beauty in our own island home.
π»π Our Mount Fuji trip last weekend organised by JIFA and Advanced Soft! Alumni from Japan drove us, treated us to onigiri for dinner, and hosted a hilarious Bingo game on the ride back. Iβll never forget the warmth and generosity, and I hope we will have a chance to reciprocate some day soon. γ©γγγγγγ¨γ, Nagi-san and team! ππ»
(And of course, all the adventures on our Self Development Days, endless matcha ice-cream, walking over 20,000 steps each day, and shopping at Donki! π)
With this year marking IATSSβ 40th anniversary, Iβm looking forward to meeting some of you in person soon and to stay connected as part of this alumni community in years to come.
Whatβs your favourite IATSS memory? Iβd love to hear yours! π¬
