2024 Winter Workshop in San Mateo

January 27, 2024 - San Mateo

Continuing on the theme of business and youth connections, the California-Japan Sister Cities Network presented “Global Connections: Sister Cities, Business, and the Next Generation” in San Mateo, CA on January 27, 2024. Co-hosted by the Consulate General of Japan in San Francisco and the Consulate General of Japan in Los Angeles and in partnership with the San Mateo Sister City Association, over 100 guests enjoyed an informative workshop and delicious lunch.

Event MC Kevin O’Donnell (Political Assistant, Consulate General of Japan in San Francisco) introduced the Consul General of Japan in San Francisco, Mr. Yo Osumi, who welcomed guests and emphasized the importance of sister city relationships. He also brought attention to the efforts of local sister cities to support the victims of the recent January 1 Noto Peninsula earthquake and provided inspiration for a productive workshop. Following Consul General Osumi's remarks, CJSCN President Meg Mizutani also welcomed all the attendees, and Japanese Chamber of Commerce of Northern California Vice Chair Tetsuo Oyama introduced business leaders who were in attendance. 

After the introductions, attendees listened to presentations by San Mateo Sister City Association Baseball Program Coach Danny Harris, who shared the incredible experience their young players enjoy through their exchanges with the city of Toyonaka.  San Mateo Councilwoman and former Mayor Amourence Lee followed by sharing her experience of the major impact that her visit to Toyanaka had on her policy priorities during her tenure as mayor. Both presentations provided everyone with ideas and insights that could benefit sister city programs throughout California. 

The workshop continued with break-out session groups discussing their vision for potential collaboration with their sister cities, businesses, and the next generation of sister city leaders. The groups were also asked to share specific actions that can be taken today to achieve their visions.  Lively discussions continued through lunch, where guests enjoyed a generous buffet of delicious Japanese dishes while expanding their network of sister city colleagues.

To conclude the successful workshop, guests were invited to tour the beautiful Japanese Garden adjacent to the recreation center. CJSCN would like to express their gratitude to the City of San Mateo and members of the San Mateo Sister City Association for their support and hospitality. We look forward to more CJSCN events in 2024!

The photos below are courtesy of and credited to the Consulate General of Japan in San Francisco.