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Kahului, Hawaii - The Japanese Cultural Society of Maui is pleased to announce the recipients of this year’s prestigious Nihon Bunka Awards given to outstanding individuals for their excellence and lifetime dedication to the perpetuation of the Japanese arts and culture, and for their unselfish willingness to share their talents with the community to inspire future generations. 

This year’s awardees are Brian Nagami, Tiffany Iida and Sensei Claude Moreau.

Brian Nagami

Brian has been a dedicated member of Maui Taiko for more than two decades, having started his taiko journey on the mainland before relocating to Maui. During his past 15 years as the Artistic Director and Lead Instructor for the Japanese drumming group, Brian has worked with dozens of teachers to inspire hundreds of participants while developing pieces, coordinating performances, and sharing the art of taiko.

Maui Taiko reaches thousands of community members and visitors annually, averaging over 60 performances each year through performances that include festivals, weddings, business openings, corporate events, and a wide range of other such celebrations. Through his leadership, artistry, instruction, and performance in taiko, Brian has helped spread Japanese culture across Maui and beyond.

In addition to his role in Maui Taiko, Brian has served on the planning committee for Maui Matsuri for over 20 years, taking on a wide range of roles, including that of Co-Chair for more than a decade. His leadership has been instrumental in making the festival a vibrant celebration of Japanese culture, drawing attendees from all over the world.

Brian has also served on the board of the Japanese Cultural Society of Maui (JCSM) for over 10 years, serving as President from 2012-2013. Most recently, he’s served as the chair of the organization's Scholarship Committee, where he has continued to support the next generation of Maui's cultural leaders.

With his passion, humility, and dedication, Brian embodies the spirit of community service. Whether performing or organizing behind the scenes, he is a beloved leader who inspires others and makes an indelible impact on Maui’s cultural heritage.

Tiffany Iida

Tiffany Iida has been a pillar of the Maui community, tirelessly dedicating over two decades to preserving and promoting Japanese culture. As a founding committee member of the Maui Matsuri Festival in 2000, she has chaired key initiatives like the Kodomo (Children’s) Corner, Volunteer Hospitality, and Passport Program, as well as serving as Co-Chair from 2008 to 2010. Her leadership and passion have helped make the festival a cherished cultural event for families and visitors alike.

Beyond the Matsuri, Tiffany has served the Japanese Cultural Society of Maui (JCSM) for 16 years in roles such as Secretary, Vice President, President, and Immediate Past President. She continues to enrich the Society’s programs by managing events like silent auction fundraisers, scholarships, and the annual Oshougatsu mochi pounding event. Her dedication ensures the Society’s mission endures for future generations.

Tiffany’s commitment extends to the Maui County Sister Cities Foundation, where she has served since 2006 in various leadership roles, including President. She has coordinated Japan delegation visits, fostering strong international relationships. Additionally, she has hosted numerous Japanese exchange students and survivors of the 2011 earthquake through the Aloha Initiative, creating meaningful cultural connections.

Known for her kindness, poise, and humility, Tiffany embodies the values of Japanese culture. She is a role model for the younger generation, a tireless community leader, and an unwavering source of support. Her contributions bring people together, foster mutual understanding, and leave a lasting impact that radiates through generations.

Sensei Claude Moreau

Sensei Claude Moreau has been a steadfast champion of Japanese culture and the martial art of judo since moving to Maui in 1979. His journey began with earning his black belt at Osaka Jo Judo Dojo in 1974, and his passion for teaching quickly set him apart. As a coach at Wailuku Hongwanji Judo Club, he inspired countless students while fostering a love for judo and its core principles of respect, discipline, and perseverance.

Recognizing the need for expanded judo opportunities, Sensei Claude co-founded the Maui Judo Dojo and, later in 2008, the Makawao Hongwanji Judo Club. His dedication extended to coaching at King Kekaulike High School for nearly two decades, where he instilled invaluable life lessons in his students. Despite battling prostate and bone cancer, he continues to lead bi-weekly practices, demonstrating remarkable resilience and devotion to his craft.

Sensei Claude’s contributions reach beyond the dojo. His volunteer work at the Makawao Hongwanji Mission, including carpentry and maintenance, reflects his selflessness and commitment to the community. Through his actions, he exemplifies the judo spirit, emphasizing the importance of mutual support and service.

The legacy Sensei Claude has built endures in the generations of students he has taught. Many return to support tournaments and events, ensuring the judo family thrives. His life’s work embodies the values of the Nihon Bunka Award, making him a worthy recipient of this prestigious honor.

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At this year’s Shinnenkai, a new set of leaders will also be installed to take the helm for JCSM.

Justin Yanagida, President

Justin is a martial artist, author, and owner of Yanagida Studio in Wailuku. The son of Japanese immigrant parents, Justin overcame significant physical and mental challenges to become a respected community leader and advocate for lasting health and fitness. He is passionate about helping others improve their quality of life and empowers individuals to achieve sustainable results through fitness and wellness. Justin is also an accomplished athlete in various martial arts, and enjoys anime in his downtime.

Rachelle Ouye, Vice President

Rachelle is the Client Success Manager and Creative Assistant at Sae Design Group, where she excels in keeping her team focused, cultivating a positive company culture, and showcasing the transformative power of design in everyday life. A passionate advocate for her community, she served as Vice President of The Nisei Veterans Memorial Center and currently represents Maui for the Ma’i Movement, dedicated to ending period poverty in Hawaii. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Rachelle finds joy in her personal life as a devoted mother to her two-year-old son, Tiger, a loving wife to her husband, Kalani, and a caring friend to all she meets.

Jennifer Sumida, Secretary

Jen is an administrative assistant at Fukumoto Engineering and a long-standing member of the JCSM Board. Passionate about preserving and celebrating Japanese culture, she is a dedicated performer and advocate for Maui Taiko, participating in tours and seminars to share the art of traditional Japanese drumming. Jen also plays a pivotal role in the community as Co-Chair of the annual Maui Matsuri, Maui's largest and most anticipated Japanese festival, fostering cultural appreciation and bringing people together through vibrant celebrations.

Stacey Nikaido, Treasurer

Stacey is the Controller at Kahului Federal Credit Union, where she has dedicated nearly 19 years to managing financial operations with precision and expertise. Her deep knowledge of finance has been instrumental in maintaining JCSM’s financial health, ensuring compliance with all laws and regulations. A lifelong enthusiast of Japanese culture, Stacey studied minyo dance with Nakayama Minyo Kai and later joined Maui Minyo Kai under Sensei Ken Tasaka. She remains a passionate teacher and performer, sharing the joy of obon dance with the community.

Kit Furukawa, Immediate Past President

Kit is a serial entrepreneur and community leader who operates Mystery Maui Escape Room, manufactures a premium condiment Maui Chili Chili Oil, and runs a marketing consultancy, Kit Zulueta Productions LLC, alongside her husband, Deron. With a background in leadership roles within the County of Maui, Kit brings a wealth of experience to her ventures and continues to give back by serving on various nonprofit boards. She is also an assistant instructor with the Maui Karate Association, sharing her passion and appreciation for Japanese culture.

Directors

Senator Troy Hashimoto

Troy Hashimoto is an elected member of the Hawaii State Senate, previously serving as a State House Representative, where he championed legislation focused on housing, education, and workforce development. Born and raised on Maui, Troy is part of the fifth generation of his family’s farming legacy, operating one of Hawaii’s oldest and largest persimmon farms. A dedicated advocate for community and cultural exchange, Troy was selected for the 2022 cohort of the U.S.-Japan Council Emerging Leaders Program, furthering his commitment to fostering meaningful connections between Hawaii and Japan.

Tiffany Iida

As a past president of JCSM, Tiffany has been a cornerstone of the organization’s growth and success over the years. She also serves on various boards, including her role as past chairwoman of the Maui County Sister Cities Foundation, where she has played a vital role in fostering and strengthening Maui’s connections with its sister cities in Japan. Professionally, Tiffany has held several leadership positions within the County of Maui and is currently an Executive Assistant with Makawao Elementary School. Her dedication to community service and cultural exchange continues to leave a lasting impact on Maui.

Victoria Jacintho

Victoria, a 13-year-old 7th grader at Seabury Hall, has been actively involved in JCSM events from a young age. Her passion for Japanese culture led her to study traditional dance with Maui Buyo Dance Academy under Sensei Yaeko Yamamoto and learn to play the koto under Sensei Mika Inaba. Victoria volunteers in various cultural programs and encourages youth participation in community events. With the support of her encouraging parents, Victoria also pursues modeling and enjoys spending quality time with her friends and family. Her enthusiasm and commitment make her a vibrant part of the community.

David Kuraya

For over a decade, David has mesmerized audiences nationwide with his masterful sleight-of-hand magic, performing in diverse venues from casinos to universities. Though the Lahaina wildfires tragically affected Warren & Annabelle’s—the renowned theater where he refined his craft—David continues to share his magic through private shows across the country. In addition to his artistry, David is an entrepreneur, founding Maui Kuraya Gifts, which offers Hawaiian coffee with proceeds supporting efforts to combat human trafficking in the Philippines. A multi-talented musician, David has also shared his passion for music by teaching at H.P. Baldwin High School, enriching the lives of young artists.

Rep. Tyson Miyake

Tyson Miyake is a dedicated public servant and current member of the Hawaii State House of Representatives. His career in public service includes roles as Deputy County Managing Director and Chief of Staff for the County of Maui Office of the Mayor. Before entering public service, Tyson served as COO of his family’s business, Miyake Concrete Accessories Inc., gaining valuable leadership and operational experience. Deeply committed to community engagement, Tyson has served as a director on the American Cancer Society Hawai‘i Pacific board, mentored students in the Maui High School Academy of Hospitality & Tourism, and held a position on the executive board of the Boy Scouts of America. His contributions extend across numerous nonprofit, civic, and professional organizations, reflecting his passion for empowering others and making a positive impact.

Eri Nomura

For a decade, Eri has served as an academic counselor at the University of Hawaiʻi Maui College, supporting students in achieving their educational and personal goals. Since 2020, she has chaired the Wailuku Hongwanji Gakuen Japanese Language School, working to preserve and promote Japanese language and cultural education among the youth in our community. Her passion lies in creating opportunities for future generations to honor the past while carrying its traditions forward with pride and understanding. By celebrating the traditions and values of Japanese culture, she is committed to ensuring they are passed on for many years to come, just as they have been passed down to us by previous generations.

Cody Sarmiento

Cody is a Contracts Clerk in the Department of Finance for the County of Maui. In his spare time, he plays the trumpet or saxophone for different local bands including the Maui Pops Orchestra, Maui Community band, the Chop Suey Jazz Orchestra, having performed many musicals at the Iao Theater, the MACC, and at a handful of high schools. Cody is usually spotted volunteering at community obon festivals, dancing or playing the drums.

Elisa Suetake

Elisa has more than 20 years of progressive experience in the print, interactive, motion graphics, software, and video game industries. Over the past two years on the board of the Japanese Cultural Society of Maui, Elisa has helped organize community events, from workshops in making ceramic sashimi sets, holiday flower arrangements, and learning to make chickpea miso. She is passionate about preserving Japanese traditions and creating spaces for our Maui community to connect and celebrate our shared heritage.

Satoko Takahashi

Satoko hails from Aomori, Japan and has advocated for perpetuating her culture as a native Japanese since she came to Maui. She is a skilled artist in the visual arts and crafts, a dedicated volunteer to several church and nonprofit organizations and is also the inspiring entrepreneur behind farm-made sugar scrubs called Maui Sugar Babe. She has served on the JCSM Board for the past two years organizing educational and exciting workshops that bring joy to all.

The King Kekaulike Jazz Band is expected to perform at the event, along with Master Shakuhachi and taiko artist based in New York Marco Lienhard. 

The public is welcome to attend Shinnenkai and may purchase tickets for $75 at jcsmaui.org. For more information, contact jcsmhawaii@gmail.com.

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The Japanese Cultural Society of Maui is pleased to announce the recipients of this year’s prestigious Nihon Bunka Awards given to outstanding individuals for their excellence and lifetime dedication to the perpetuation of the Japanese arts and culture, and for their unselfish willingness to share their talents with the community to inspire future generations. 

Shannon Loo

With innate organizational and creative skills, Shannon has driven life into numerous community gatherings- weddings, corporate events, and travels with his leadership. But it was his love for his Japanese culture that remained constant throughout his life and career, which inspired him to also take up space perpetuating Japanese cultural attire. 

Being a regular part of the Bon Dance community on Oahu from a very young age and now president and head sensei of Maui Minyo Kai, Shannon for 9 years, have danced at every Obon on Maui, and sometimes solidifying ties between the Bon Dance community participating on Oahu.  Telling stories and honoring ancestors with every movement, he inspires many with every colorful kimono. 

Even the global shutdown from the pandemic didn’t stop Shannon from sharing the joy of Japanese dance. Along with fellow dancers, he organized “Zoomdori”, a Virtual bon dance experience. Gracing computer screens with dances from Maui and beautiful garb, they provided dance step tutorials, played games, and provided comfort and hope during a difficult time. 

Speaking of Kimono, his expertise on this subject matter and being a seamster for over 25 years fuels his life-long dream and passion to impart the art to as many people as possible. Shannon embraced his gift of influence and with his entrepreneurial drive and partnership with his sister, opened his boutique business Mise Kimono.

Founded with the purpose of perpetuating the legacy and feisty spirit of his grandmother, Tomiko Mise, Mise Kimono is the only store in the state of Hawaii largely dedicated to the craft of Kitsuke, the art of kimono dressing. Vintage/ second-hand kimono are also upcycled into bags, accessories, and modern fashions.

As a kimono shop owner, Shannon forges ahead with every opportunity to educate others with his craft, while celebrating his Japanese heritage, ensuring cultural traditions transcend generations.

Reverend Gensho Hara

The first-born son of a temple priest in Nagano Prefecture, Japan, Reverend Gensho Hara came to Maui in 1963 when he answered a plea to fill a vacant minister’s position in Lahaina Jodo Mission. What was poised as a temporary assignment has turned into 60 years of leadership and service, making him a spiritual and cultural icon, not only for the Japanese community of Maui, but for a town of significant historic value. 

Five years after he arrived, Lahaina Jodo Mission suffered a damaging fire and Reverend Hara, along with the mission members, carpenters from Japan, and the community, rebuilt the beloved temple. He vowed then to ensure the temple would continue to be a place where people gather.

And it sure did. Rev. Hara created a robust spiritual home in Lahaina that became a gathering place for cultural and educational events, which helped his Lahaina community to thrive. His dedication can also be seen in his early participation in organizing interfaith services such as the Thanksgiving Service held at the Old Lahaina Prison in the 70's. Over the years, he has opened his doors to nonprofit group meetings, film showings, farmers markets, weddings and parties, workshops, concerts, and many more. Rev. Hara has been instrumental in organizing many successful events that celebrate Japanese traditions, especially Lahaina Jodo Mission’s summer Obon festival, known for its tōrō nagashi, or floating lanterns ceremony.

For sixty years, his name became synonymous with the Maui Japanese community, where many have sought through him the teachings of Buddha. He was made an honorary member of the Japanese Cultural Society by its founding members and has participated in many of its events over the years. He has also appeared in countless local and international news and other publications, and film productions such as Nami no Bon (Lantern Festival of the Waves) and Futaba Bon Uta (The Obon Festival Song of Futaba), and has generously shared his knowledge of Japanese and Nikkei culture and history. Most important, he has imparted values of resilience through adversity, determination, and hard work.

Armed with a hose pipe, Rev. Hara fought hard to battle the fires last Aug. 8 before evacuating safely with his family. The church’s iconic temple and pagoda, nearby structures, and historical records have all turned to ashes. 

But just like in Buddhism, the white ashes are a reminder of impermanence and life that is fleeting. As Rev. Hara has reiterated, “attachment to material things causes suffering.” At 87 years old, Rev. Gensho Hara vows to restore and rebuild. He has done it before and will do it again as his church and ministry shall continue to live in the faces of the community he loved.

Join us to celebrate the Nihon Bunka awardees at JCSM’s Annual New Year celebration banquet Shinnenkai on Saturday, January 27, 5:30 p.m. at the Maui Beach Hotel, which includes dinner and entertainment. Attendees may wear formal kimonos at this function.

Sponsorship packages, tables of 10 and general admission tickets are $75, and can be purchased at jcsmaui.org. Email jcsmhawaii@gmail.com for inquiries.

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The Japanese Cultural Society of Maui’s Ganbare Maui Recovery Fund today received a ¥1M donation from the Japan-Hawaii Legislators Friendship Association, represented by State Minister Iwao Horii.

Photos and story on Facebook

JCSM President Kit Furukawa received the donation during an intimate gathering attended by Mayor Richard Bissen, Council Chair Alice Lee, Council Vice Chair Yuki Lei Sugimura, and Councilmembers Tasha Kama, Tom Cook and Gabe Johnson.

Japanese community leaders were also present, including Rev. Gensho Hara of Lahaina Jodo Mission, Rev. Takanori Meguro of Lahaina Shingon Mission, and Rev. Ai Hironaka of Lahaina Hongwanji. Structures for all three churches, including the homes of the ministers, were burned down from the Aug. 8 Maui wildfires.

The event was hosted and led by Consul General Yoshinori Kodama of the Japanese Consulate of Honolulu and Board Chair Kyoko Kimura and Executive Director Deidre Tegarden of the Nisei Veterans Memorial Center.

The Ganbare Maui program was created to support recovery efforts, restoration programs and special initiatives in line with the preservation and perpetuation of Maui’s thriving Japanese culture and community.

Fundraising is on-going and donations are accepted online at jcsmaui.org.

“The Ganbare Maui Fund, as its name implies, embodies the spirit of grit and unwavering determination never to give up,” Furukawa said. “We are embarking on a long road to recovery, one that may be marked by numerous obstacles, but we will face each one with courage and resilience. The strength of our community and friendship is a testament to the aloha spirit that will define our journey forward.”

As a symbol of solidarity and commitment, the Japanese Cultural Society of Maui will match the donation received, and future donations up to $35,000.

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Maui Matsuri returns to UH Maui College on Saturday, May 27 from 3 to 9 p.m., and will kick-off this Saturday, May 20 with Children’s Day at the Queen Ka‘ahumanu Center from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Now in its 21st year, the Maui Matsuri festival continues to showcase a vibrant and diverse Maui community and has provided a venue to gather and celebrate a wide array of Japanese cultural arts and traditions. 

Both events are free and are highly anticipated by residents and visitors. This year’s festival theme is ichi go ichi e – a Japanese philosophical concept that reminds us to treasure the unique, unrepeatable nature of a moment or encounter, for it will never recur.

Children’s Day, May 20

Children’s Day includes multicultural performances from Maui Taiko, King Kekaulike High School Jazz Band, Maui Buyo Dance Academy, Halau Hula O Keola Alii O Ke Kai,  Isle of Maui Pipe Band and Dance International Production. Mise Kimono also presents a kimono fashion show taking you on a journey from traditional to suggestions on a modern look.

There will be recognition of awards, such as for the Japanese Cultural Society of Maui’s scholarship recipients, winners of HouseMart Ben Franklin Crafts’ art contest, and a special teacher dedication arranged by women educators in the Maui Chapter of Alpha Delta Kappa, a partner organization that helped organize Children’s Day.

In addition, there will be special STEM demonstrations from Kalama Intermediate School, Pukalani Elementary School, Maui Waena Intermediate School and Kamehameha High School.

There will be hands-on activities and kids’ crafts, and those wanting to purchase Maui Matsuri shirts may do so. The program will be emceed by Maui’s own Kathy Collins. At the close of the event, the public is encouraged to join a bon dance practice.

Festival Day, May 27

Maui Matsuri’s festival day features cultural entertainment presented by TJ’s Warehouse at the college’s great lawn from Maui Okinawan Taiko, Maui Taiko, Zenshin Daiko, Nakayama Minyo Kai, Maui Dance Klub, Maui Minyo Kai, demonstrations by Mitsune Kendo Dojo, and guest performers from Taiko Center of the Pacific, which includes a crowd favorite lion dance.

At the festival, JCSM also recognizes an outstanding business that is Japanese-owned, and has been an ally in its mission to preserve and perpetuate Japanese culture and traditions. This year, the distinguished Business Award will be presented to the Nakashima family of Upcountry landmark Pukalani Superette. 

Contests also return this year with the Sam Sato’s Saimin Eating Contest and the Shore to Shore Realty Natto Eating Contest. Registrations are ongoing with the Cosplay contest, organized this year by Nightdarling Cosplay and sponsored by Mise Kimono. There will be exciting prize drawings for the festival’s passport program and event survey. 

Plus, the community can enjoy food booths and trucks, craft vendors, exhibits and the return of the children’s craft area called Kodomo Corner.

“We look forward to celebrating Japanese culture with the community as we return to UH Maui College after four years,”said Kit Furukawa, president of Japanese Cultural Society of Maui. “We are so grateful to the sponsors and many hands that put this event together to keep traditions alive and help perpetuate the culture for our keiki. Let’s make beautiful memories together and please stay for the finale - a Community Obon Dance! Dust off your happi coats for the first obon dance of the season!”

Maui Matsuri is produced by a team of volunteers led by co-chairs Kay Fukumoto, Brian Nagami and Jennifer Sumida.  The festival is presented by the Japanese Cultural Society of Maui, and supported in part by the County of Maui and the Office of Economic Development. Other major sponsors are Island Honda, IBEW Local 1186, UH Maui College, Queen Ka‘ahumanu Center and Maui Taiko.

For more information, visit the festival website at mauimatsuri.com, or follow @mauimatsuri on social media. For those interested to volunteer, please call (808) 283-9999.

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KAHULUI, Hawaii - The Japanese Cultural Society of Maui is pleased to announce three outstanding applicants to receive scholarships this year. The awardees will be recognized at the Maui Matsuri Kick-Off event called Children’s Day on Saturday, May 20 at 10 a.m. at the Queen Kaahumanu Center. The following scholars were selected for their record of involvement in promoting and perpetuating Japanese culture and language.

• Kaitlin Kitagawa

Kaitlin will receive the Asa Ellison Memorial Scholarship worth $1500 for her outstanding academic record, community service and excellence in Japanese language. She is a senior at King Kekaulike High School and plans to attend Santa Clara University to pursue bioengineering with a minor in Japanese studies. Kaitlin was crowned the 68th Queen of the Chrysanthemum Festival for her efforts to raise funds for the Maui Sons and Daughters of the Nisei Veterans. She won an all-expense-paid trip to Japan for her team winning the Japanese Wizards Statewide Academic Team Competition.

In her essay, Kaitlin shared that she is inspired to live by the Japanese value of “chugi,” or loyalty, “not only to my country, but to my culture, family, beliefs, and to myself,” she adds. “An important way to perpetuate Japanese culture is to speak up. We all need to vocalize our experiences - both good and bad, and share issues that are valuable to our community.”

• Jaimee Yokoyama

Jaimee will receive a $1000 JCSM Scholarship. She is a senior at King Kekaulike High School and plans to attend the University of Hawaii at Manoa to pursue computer science. For more than 11 years, Jaimee has danced for Maui Minyo Kai and has actively participated in Obon festivals around the island. She is also a member of the Maui United Junior Youth Buddhist Association and has volunteered for various Hongwanji churches. 

By Jaimee's involvement in various community events, she said that "there are many people who are willing to learn about Japanese culture, but don't know where to look or find resources." She said part of the challenge is finding those who are willing to teach - which is why she remains committed to keeping traditions alive as she pursues higher education.

• Taylie Teraoka

Taylie will receive a $1000 JCSM Scholarship. She is a senior at H.P. Baldwin High School and plans to attend the University of California Irvine and major in civil engineering and minor in environmental engineering. In addition to strong involvement with her school’s student government, Taylie is also a member of her school’s Japanese Club, among others. She has organized cultural events with exchange students from Okinawa, Japan who are attending UH Maui College. Her team in the Level B category also won a trip to Japan from competing in the Japan American Society of Hawaii’s Wizards Competition. Finally, her team was selected to carry their winning mikoshi in Waikiki for the Honolulu Festival's Mikoshi Design Contest, which featured elements depicting Hawaii and Japan's connected cultures.

Driven by a desire to study in Japan, Taylie wishes to see more opportunities with Maui's sister cities, a renewed effort to teach Japanese language and hopes to see the youth get more involved. "Young people are the future and there is an absence of young people in preservation efforts," she said. "I hope to become even more involved when I come back from college."

The JCSM Scholarship Program is made possible by generous donations from Asa Ellison’s friends and family, and through fundraising and direct donations. To make a donation to this program to support future scholars, go to jcsmaui.org/scholarship.

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Now on its 54th year as a nonprofit, a new set of officers and directors will also be installed at the same evening to carry JCSM’s mission to perpetuate Japanese culture for future generations. The new officers and directors are the following:

• Kit Zulueta Furukawa, President

• Chris Sugidono, Vice President

• Deron Furukawa, Secretary

• Stacey Nikaido, Treasurer

Directors: 

• • Rep. Troy Hashimoto

  • Tiffany Iida

  • Brian Nagami

  • Elisa Suetake

  • Jennifer Sumida

  • Satoko Takahashi

Join us to celebrate the Nihon Bunka awardees at JCSM’s Annual New Year celebration banquet Shinnen Enkai on Saturday, January 28, 5:30 p.m. at the Maui Beach Hotel, which includes dinner and entertainment. Attendees may wear formal kimonos at this function.

Sponsorship packages, tables of 10 and general admission tickets are $75, and can be purchased at jcsmaui.org. Email jcsmhawaii@gmail.com for inquiries.

Kahului, Hawaii - The Japanese Cultural Society of Maui is pleased to announce the recipients of this year’s prestigious Nihon Bunka Awards given to outstanding individuals for their excellence and lifetime dedication to the perpetuation of the Japanese arts and culture, and for their unselfish willingness to share their talents with the community to inspire future generations. 

• Deidre Tegarden

As Executive Director of the Nisei Veterans Center, Deidre Tegarden has kept the spirit and legacy of “Go For Broke” alive through a dynamic and busy calendar of activities at the Center that promote Japanese culture - tea ceremony, bon dance workshops, anime movie screenings, leadership training, in addition to an archive of more than 200 special collections relating to Maui Nisei veterans. 

She is a current Director At-Large for the Japanese Cultural Center of Hawaii, and was instrumental in the success of a significant number of programs such as the Gannenmono 150th anniversary celebrations.  She received a Certificate of Commendation by Japanese Consul General Koichi Ito for her contributions to the Japanese-American community and for the deepening of mutual understanding and friendship between Japan and other nations. As Council Leader for the US-Japan Council, she has also convened events for the Regional Women In Leadership program, which advances opportunities for women in the context of US-Japan relations.

Tegarden served as Chief Protocol Officer for Gov. Neil Abercrombie and Gov. David Ige. As a volunteer to the Maui County Sister Cities Foundation, Deidre provided Japanese protocol workshops, and has served as translator for numerous

Japanese dignitaries. Her involvement in various initiatives with Japan has resulted in student exchange programs, as well as US-Japan business and governmental collaboration.

She also served as Chief of Staff to the Office of the Mayor, Director of the Office of Economic Development for the County of Maui, and as the Executive Director for Big Brothers Big Sisters Maui. She was a recipient of Pacific Business News’ “Forty Under 40” Award and a graduate of the Weinberg Fellows Program. She received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Japanese and Chinese Studies at the University of Maryland.

• Christopher Curtis and Lynn Shikatani Curtis

Curtis Sensei and Lynn Curtis Sensei embody the spirit of Aikido, passed on through them from their teacher, the late Shinichi Suzuki Sensei, to all their students.

Curtis Sensei is currently the Chief Instructor of the Hawaii Ki Federation (HKF) and formerly the Head Instructor of Maui Ki Aikido. He has trained fervently in the art of Aikido for over 48 years. He began his training in 1974 with his teachers Koichi Tohei Sensei in Japan and Shinichi Suzuki Sensei on Maui. Curtis Sensei served as Suzuki Sensei’s otomo, accompanying him to attend and teach seminars around the world. As Chief Instructor of HKF, Curtis Sensei teaches Aikido and Ki Principles throughout Hawaii, the United States, and Europe. He continues to teach a weekly meditation class at Maui Ki Aikido and trains annually, receiving instruction from his current teacher Kaicho Shinichi Tohei in Japan. Curtis Sensei has also authored several books about his Aikido practice—Letting Go; Ki Aikido on Maui: A Training Manual; and Otomo: A Journey, a semi-autobiographical account of his many years of practice.

Lynn Curtis Sensei is currently a Senior Instructor and Head of the Children’s Program at Maui Ki Aikido. She began training with Shinichi Suzuki Sensei on Maui in 1978. Lynn Curtis Sensei assisted Suzuki Sensei for many years, accompanying him to Japan on numerous occasions. Lynn Curtis Sensei continues to teach a weekly children’s class at Maui Ki Aikido and also continues her training with Kaicho Shinichi Tohei in Japan. As a Senior Instructor and Children’s Instructor, she has touched the lives of many hundreds of Maui children for the better.

Join us to celebrate the Nihon Bunka awardees at JCSM’s Annual New Year celebration banquet Shinnen Enkai on Saturday, January 28, 5:30 p.m. at the Maui Beach Hotel, which includes dinner and entertainment. Attendees may wear formal kimonos at this function.

Sponsorship packages, tables of 10 and general admission tickets are $75, and can be purchased under "Events" tab. Email jcsmhawaii@gmail.com

for inquiries.

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Oct. 9, Kahului - JCSM Members and Kahului Jodo Mission members created nuno zori during a workshop led by Sensei Keiko Maeda from Aomori, Japan.  Here are some photos from the event!

KAHULUI, Hawaii – The Japanese Cultural Society of Maui awarded two scholarships to outstanding students – Teisha Nishimitsu, graduate of King Kekaulike High School, received the Asa Ellison Memorial Scholarship worth $1500, and a $1000 scholarship was also awarded to Payten Shimizu, a graduate of Baldwin High School.

The scholars were selected for their record of involvement in promoting and perpetuating Japanese culture and language.

Nishimitsu will be studying Biology and Japanese language at Stanford University and intends to audition and pursue taiko drumming professionally, and aspires to study in Japan someday. She has performed and taught taiko with the Zenshin Daiko, competed with the Japanese Wizards Statewide Academic Team Competition, and signed up for the Chrysanthemum Ball.

“During the pandemic I asked my great great grandmother what she thought we needed to do to

overcome the hate facing the Asian community,” Nishimitsu shared in her essay, “Her response was simple, yet so intelligible. “We all have to find something we can do together.””

Meanwhile, Shimizu will be continuing learning Japanese culture and language at Portland State University. She will also be spending four weeks in Japan this year after winning a scholarship contest on how anime reflects Japanese culture and its impact on America’s youth today. After college, she plans to participate in the Japan Exchange and Teaching Program.

“I believe that one of the main challenges faced by the Japanese community on Maui and

Hawai’i in general is that they are not educated about many of the hardships that their ancestors

faced when coming to Hawaii,” Shimizu shared in her essay. “For example, many are unaware of the internment camps that the Japanese were put into during World War II. I only learned about these hardships during my third year of high school. I feel that it was a significant part of the history of Japanese immigration in Hawai’i, as it taught a lot about discrimination.”

The JCSM Scholarship Program is made possible by generous donations from Asa Ellison’s friends and family, and through fundraising and direct donations from its members. To make a donation to this program to support future scholars, contact jcsmhawaii@gmail.com.

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Kahului, Hawaii – The deadline for the Japanese Cultural Society of Maui’s Scholarship program application is extended to June 30, 2022.

Applicants with a record of involvement in promoting and perpetuating the Japanese culture and language are encouraged to apply. Applicants don’t need to be of Japanese descent, but must be a resident of the island of Maui, and a High School graduate of the class of 2022, or a current full-time student at the University of Hawaii Maui College.

Scholarships are at $1000 each, with one applicant awarded $1,500 for the Asa Ellison Memorial Scholarship for the perpetuation of the Japanese language.

Go to jcsmaui.org/scholarship to download the application. To submit the requirements or for questions, email jcsmhawaii@gmail.com.

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