2025 September Newsletter
Sweet September
We are excited to open up applications for our teen leadership program as Kizuna gears up for Autumn.
Thur, Sep 18, 2025, 6:00 PM
Leadership in Action 2026 Apps are Open!
This 10-week Saturday program in Little Tokyo brings together high school students to learn from community leaders, explore civil liberties issues, and build essential leadership skills through hands-on group projects. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect, grow, and make an impact!
Deadline to apply: December 1, 2025
Savor the Taste of Kizuna…
Taste of Kizuna is just around the corner! On Thursday, November 6th at Drago Centro in Downtown LA, join us for an unforgettable evening of fine dining and community connection with award-winning chefs (Lineup Coming Soon!).
As Kizuna’s largest annual fundraiser, this year’s event aims to raise $75,000 to sustain our 2026 lineup of cultural and leadership programs for youth and young professionals. Every ticket purchased and every donation made helps ensure the next generation of Japanese American leaders can learn, grow, and thrive.
Seats are limited—reserve yours today or make a gift to support Kizuna’s mission at the link below! Last day to reserve is October 31st.
Community News!
Nikkei Children’s Book Festival
Dokushyo no Aki means “fall is for reading,” expressing the sentiment that the cozy and short days of autumn are the best time to pick up a book. Jump into the reading season with our Nikkei Children’s Book Festival and celebrate the breadth and diversity of children’s literature across the Japanese American community. The festival will be full of author storytimes for kids, Q&As for adults, activities for all ages, and a special pop-up bookstore from the JANM Store.
Saturday, September 20 10 am – 3 pm
FEATURED AUTHORS: George Takei, Chris Aihara, Lisa Aihara, J.P. Takahashi, Nadine Sachiko Hsu, Sunny Seki, Benson Shum, Gwen Muranaka, and Katie Yamasaki.
LTSC Changing Tides’ Undokai Festival
The event will take place on Saturday, October 11 from 12-3 pm at the Terasaki Budokan. It will be a free event, with food and prizes included! There will be a variety of activities including tug-of-war and basketball relays. Fun for all ages; anybody is welcome to come!
Little Tokyo Farmers’ Market
Join us at the Little Tokyo Farmers’ Market, a vibrant new Saturday tradition in the heart of Little Tokyo. Presented in partnership by JACCC and Food Access LA, this weekly market brings together fresh, affordable produce, rich cultural experiences, and meaningful community connection.
Every Saturday starting August 30th 9AM-2PM
