Theme: The Phoenix Effect

"The Phoenix Effect," highlights the ability to adapt, reinvent, and rise above challenges as a mark of maturity. Much like the mythical phoenix rising from its ashes, this theme highlights the human capacity to gracefully adapt to change, continuously reinvent oneself, and triumph over adversity. It serves as a powerful metaphor for the profound maturity attained through the ability to navigate life's complexities with resilience and a forward-looking spirit.

Global Indian International School, Seishincho Campus
2 Chome-10-1 Seishincho, Edogawa City
Auditorium
Edogawa, Tôkyô, 134-0087
Japan

Amy Kendall Crockett

Educator

Amy has been an educator for over seven years in Japan. Her master's degree specializes in linguistically and culturally diverse teaching. She uses inquiry-based teaching as well as acting as an International Baccalaureate workshop facilitator to support the training of other teachers.

Ashley Iwanaga

High School Student

Ashley, a 15-year-old public speaking enthusiast and self-described MUN try-hard, dreams of giving TED Talks. Juggling her interests in business and law, she's often negotiating for a phone upgrade or on the tennis court. Having lived in different countries, she aims to incorporate her diverse experiences into her TED talk, focusing on empowering listeners with her perspective on peer pressure. Stepping onto the TED stage would be a dream accomplished for her.

LaTonya Whitiker

Co-owner and Food Coordinator of Soul Food House, Executive Director of Legacy Foundation Japan

LaTonya Whitiker, along with her husband David, co-owns the Soul Food House restaurant in Azabu Juban Tokyo, offering a taste of home and cultural exchange in Japan. A dedicated mother as well as the Executive Director and the inspiration behind the founding of Legacy Foundation Japan, she champions the empowerment of the African diaspora and foreigners in Japan. Through workshops, charity, and networking, LaTonya advocates for the community, embodying her belief in the transformative power of community and positive change. From each plate prepared to every hug given, LaTonya's joy comes from serving and providing a place of home in her community.

Shanu Agarwal

Founder & MD Shanuagarwali Japan, Co-Founder & COO American School in Kofu

Shanu Agarwal founded the American School in Kofu two decades ago due to a lack of educational options for her children. Despite no prior experience, she overcame challenges to create the school, driven by a desire to positively impact the community. As her children graduated, Shanu ventured into Temari art, achieved success, and during the pandemic, entered jewelry design, creating her own brand. Beyond being a homemaker, she serves on NGO boards and is an entrepreneur, with a powerful message to youth: believe, create, grow, and inspire, regardless of life phase or age.

Yogendra Puranik

Public School Principal, Social Worker

Yogi-san’s 24-year journey in Japan has been remarkable. With experience working with global IT firms, local banks, operating restaurants, and managing a Tokyo culture center, his social work has led him to being the first Asian-origin assembly member. Now a bureaucrat and the first foreign-origin public-school Principal in Japan, Yogi proudly sees himself as one of Japan's most successful immigrants, eager to share his story.