Celebrating 10 Years of TOMODACHI – Sumitomo Corporation Scholarship Program.

Since its launch in 2014, the TOMODACHI – Sumitomo Corporation Scholarship Program has been empowering exchange students from Japan to the United States. This year, we're proud to mark a historic milestone with our first all-female cohort of ten exceptional young women. Over the past year, they've pursued diverse academic interests, from computer science to psychology, driven by their passion to make meaningful contributions to society.

From March 17th – 22nd, these scholars embarked on a tour through Washington D.C. and New York City, for a week of hands-on learning about U.S. history, government, culture, and business. Supported by Sumitomo Corporation of Americas and the U.S.-Japan Council, their experiences ranged from insightful discussions at SCOA’s DC Office to visits to iconic museums such as the National Museum of African American History and Culture and the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum.

Their trip continued to New York City, where they delved into the world of entrepreneurship with a site-visit to Ori, an investee of SCOA’s group company Presidio Ventures, to meet with founder Hasier Larrea, gaining insights into what makes a successful entrepreneur and product design. The group of scholars also met with SCOA’s CxOs to learn about our history, business model, and values, while also sharing what they’ve learned from their time in the U.S. At Columbia Business School’s Center on Japanese Economy and Business, they met with Director, Prof. David Weinstein to learn more about the complexities of economic forces and international diplomacy in respect to US-Japan relations and partook in a career visioning workshop with Dr. Yumiko Shimabukuro to further reflect on how their interests, passions, and skills can shape their career path.

By the end of the week, these young scholars developed a strengthened sense of purpose and a commitment to drive positive change. Sumitomo Corporation of Americas stands proudly as a partner in their journey, inspired by their dedication and boundless potential to shape a brighter tomorrow. To the next decade of empowering emerging leaders and fostering global connections! #TOMODACHI #Sumitomo #EmpoweringYouth #PositiveChange.