The 2025 LANSCA (Los Angeles and Nagoya Sister City Affiliation) Student Exchange Alumni Reunion took place via Zoom on February 22, bringing together former participants, parents, and distinguished representatives from both Nagoya and Los Angeles.
Erika Lopez, chair of the LANSCA Student Exchange Program, extended a warm welcome to all attendees, highlighting the importance of the gathering.
The event featured notable opening remarks from Ichiro Hirosawa, the mayor of Nagoya, and Wajenda Chambeshi, director of international relations for the Los Angeles Mayor’s Office.
Additionally, Consul General Kenko Sone of the Consulate General of Japan in Los Angeles and Teruko Weinberg, chair of LANSCA, shared their enthusiasm for the reunion.
Following the introductory speeches, participants were invited to reminisce by watching a captivating slideshow showcasing memorable moments from past Student Exchange Program activities.
The images illustrated joyful interactions between Los Angeles and Nagoya high school students, but it was the heartfelt reflections shared by the students that resonated most deeply.
One participant recalled her fondest memory involving bonding with her host family, highlighting moments spent cooking Japanese hamburg steak and folding origami stars with her host mother.
Another student emphasized the program’s significance in fostering new friendships and experiences among peers with shared interests.
In addition to personal growth, many students noted the academic benefits derived from their experiences.
One participant mentioned how the program ignited a passion for learning English, enabling him to excel in a Japanese national speech contest and secure a spot at a prestigious university.
Parents also shared their insights on hosting exchange students.
One parent spoke candidly about the fulfillment derived from hosting, describing the joy of witnessing students’ excitement as they uncover new experiences.
Echoing this sentiment, a student reflected on the opportunities hosting brought him to explore various parts of Los Angeles, resulting in cherished memories of driving around the city and visiting iconic landmarks like the Hollywood sign.
In her closing reflections, Lopez highlighted the program’s role in building confidence among students, noting how many participants transition from shyness to self-assurance as they engage with diverse environments and people.
She expressed satisfaction in witnessing the growth of students in knowledge and leadership skills through the program.
Weinberg further encouraged participants to embrace leadership roles, inspiring them to become ambassadors for LANSCA and drivers of change within the organization.
This call to action resonated with the students, leaving them energized and eager to contribute to LANSCA’s mission.
As the event drew to a close, attendees shared a collective vision of progress and growth for future exchanges.
For over 60 years, the LANSCA Student Exchange Program has provided invaluable opportunities for high school students in Nagoya and Los Angeles to immerse themselves in each other’s vibrant cultures.
Former students of the program are encouraged to return as ambassadors and can reach out to Erika Lopez for further involvement opportunities.
Additionally, those interested in applying to the program can visit www.lanscastudentexchange.org for more information.
The recording of the Student Reunion will soon be available on LANSCA’s YouTube channel.
image source from：https://rafu.com/2025/04/lansca-student-exchange-alumni-hold-reunion/
