In 2018–2020, Asia Society Texas Center hosted Nina Shimaguchi as our Japan Outreach Initiative (JOI) Coordinator, who promoted an interest in and study of Japan in Houston over two years. As part of Asia Society's Education and Outreach department, the JOI Coordinator supported on-site educational programs for young and adult learners, and visited schools and community centers to introduce K–12 students and adults to different elements of Japanese culture.

If you wish to learn more about the programming offered through JOI, we created a series of on-demand videos via At-Home Adventures through Japan, where you can meet Nina virtually and take part in her programming from the comfort of your home or classroom.

Asia Society Texas Center is grateful to the Japan Foundation Center for Global Partnerships and the Laurasian Institution for providing this opportunity to host Nina and share Japanese culture with the Greater Houston community.

About Japan Outreach Initiative (JOI)

A joint initiative of The Japan Foundation Center for Global Partnership and Laurasian Institution, the Japan Outreach Initiative (JOI) brings volunteer Japanese coordinators to regions of the U.S. where Japanese culture has been less accessible. JOI coordinators are hosted by U.S. nonprofits and educational institutions with a strong commitment to promoting learning about Japan. During the two-year program, JOI coordinators engage their American community through Japanese-themed programming — from lectures to hands-on activities to events focusing on traditional Japanese art forms.

To learn more, please visit: https://www.laurasian.org/joi

Meet the JOI Coordinator at Asia Society

Nina Shimaguchi is spending two years at Asia Society Texas Center as a JOI Coordinator. Nina is from Osaka and will promote Japan's rich culture and traditions through presentations, activities, and events for all ages, through summer 2020.