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japan-georgia (JAGA) Futures Forum

The Japan-America Society of Georgia launched the JaGA Futures Forum in 2024 as a collaborative initiative connecting Japanese companies, government organizations, and Georgia’s colleges and universities. The program is designed to bridge industry and academia by cultivating future talent, strengthening workforce development pathways, and deepening the long-standing relationship between Japan and Georgia. Each Forum features a Business & Career Expo, where students can meet directly with Japanese companies and organizations to learn about internships, career opportunities, and industry trends. In addition, every event includes panel discussions and thematic sessions that explore key issues shaping the U.S./Georgia–Japan connection, including topics such as workforce, innovation and technology, cross-cultural communication, economic partnerships, and the evolving needs of global industries. 



JA-GA Futures Forum: Workforce Reimagined - Toward a Flexible & Durable Partnership

This year’s Forum opens with remarks from Consul General Kenichi Matsuda, UNG Vice Provost Dr. Steven Lloyd, and JASG Chair Patrick Lenz of Toyo Tires, with emcee Nozomi Morgan, President & CEO of Michiki Morgan Worldwide.

The first session features an interactive Career Coaching Workshop led by UNG Career Services Director Dianne Farrell, joined by UNG alumnus Alex Howell of Hylant Toyotsu and other guests. The discussion will highlight practical strategies for engaging with Japanese companies and building global career pathways.

The second session, Future of Georgia–Japan Business Partnerships & Workforce Strategies, moderated by Mellissa Takeuchi of the Georgia Department of Economic Development, brings together business leaders including Raymond Shelton of YKK AP. Speakers will examine workforce needs, skill alignment, and opportunities for deeper Georgia–Japan collaboration in a rapidly evolving economy.

The closing session explores The Impacts of Artificial Intelligence on business and society. Moderated by Rose Procter of UNG’s Center for Ethical Leadership, the panel features Masa Maruyama (Saison Technologies), Yumi Kimura (LEAD), and Bill Winans (Sitetracker), offering insights into emerging technologies, innovation, and strategies for navigating disruption.

Throughout the day—including during the networking lunch—attendees can meet Japanese companies at the Business & Career Expo, gaining firsthand insight into why more than 600 Japanese-affiliated businesses thrive in Georgia and exploring potential career opportunities.

Forum Registration: www.bit.ly/JAGA-2026 

Business Expo: www.bit.ly/Ja-Ga-Expo


2025 JAGA Futures Forum

The 2025 JaGA Futures Forum brought together educators, industry leaders, and students at Kennesaw State University for a full day of dialogue on the future of Georgia–Japan relations, featuring three dynamic sessions and a Business & Career Expo showcasing Japanese companies in the state. The program explored global education opportunities between Georgia and Japan, highlighted through insights from university leaders and alumni; engaged participants in an interactive leadership workshop focused on developing the next generation of global leaders; and examined workforce development strategies with experts discussing skill alignment, innovative training, and the importance of inclusive workplaces. Throughout the event, attendees connected directly with Japanese businesses operating in Georgia, gaining firsthand exposure to career pathways and the economic impact of the more than 600 Japan-affiliated companies across the state.

Video Highlights & Full Session Recordings:

2024 JAGA Futures Forum

The inaugural 2024 Ja‑Ga Futures Forum marked the 50th anniversary of the Consulate General of Japan in Atlanta with a dynamic program highlighting the past, present, and future of the Japan–U.S.–Georgia relationship. Hosted in partnership with NAJAS, the Sasakawa Peace Foundation, and Georgia Tech CIBER, the event featured two engaging sessions: a luncheon panel on U.S.–Japan geostrategic challenges and opportunities, followed by an interactive discussion on the evolution of Georgia–Japan relations and the importance of cultivating the next generation of global leaders. Throughout the Forum, attendees connected with Japanese companies at the Business & Career Expo, gaining insight into Georgia’s robust Japan-affiliated business community and exploring career pathways shaped by decades of successful bilateral collaboration.

Video Highlights & Full Session Recordings:



If you are interest in hosting a future JaGa Futures Forum, please click HERE to learn more.





The Japan-America Society of Georgia, Inc.

is a non-profit organization whose mission is to promote

mutual understanding between the people of Japan and the state of Georgia 


Phone: 404-842-1400    Email: Admin@JASGeorgia.org


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