What began as an act of friendship has become a bond between Japan and America so strong, that even the Pacific Ocean cannot stand between it! But how did it all begin? Mr. Sven Johnson, a long-time Rotarian and co-founder of the Short Term Youth Exchange Program between District 7470 and District 2670, related the story of how this program began. This is his story.
In 1976 Sven led a Group Study Exchange to Korea. This is another type of exchange that Rotary sponsors, but as the name indicates, it is a working exchange that is for adults. Being familliar with Korea and some of the Asian culture and customs, Sven was asked by Ross Redmond, the District Governor at that time, to attend the 1968 International Rotary Convention in Tokyo, Japan. Also at that time was a form of relating Rotary Clubs known as "Matched Districts". Having met the District Governor of Rotary 2670, the Shikoku island district, Sven and Ross decided to go to Shikoku island and see some sights along the way. Upon their arrival in Matsuyama harbor of Ehime prefecture, Sven recalls being warmly welcomed by at least one hundred and fifty Rotarians.
One evening Sven, Ross and Shoichi Kajiyura, the District Governor of Club 2670, discussed the prospect of having an exchange program for students. Shoichi contended that it may be difficult with the rigorous Japanese school program, so they worked the possibility of a summer program for students. After spending a few more days in Japan, Sven and Ross returned to America, but left Japan without solidifying any information about the exchange trip. About one month later, the New Jersey Club 7470 received a telegram from Shikoku's District 2670 saying that their students would be coming over shortly. A rush ensued to create a three-week schedule for the unexpected guests, and instead of touring by bus, the students were transported by car. Regardless of the situation, a good time was had by all, and the following summer American students were sent to Japan. Today this tradition is still going strong with over 1,100 students having successfully gone through the program. Maybe you can be a part of the tradition which began with Mr. Sven Johnson, Mr. Ross Redmond and Mr. Shoichi Kajiyura, that has touched the lives of thousands of students and host families in Japan and America.
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