More than a Festival: What My Nisei Week Court Experience Has Taught Me

Throughout my time on the Nisei Week Court, I have constantly reflected on one important question. I often think about the lessons I've learned, the experiences I've had, the people I met, and the friendships I've formed. The Japanese American community has been a huge part of my life and is a fundamental aspect of my identity. Participating in the Nisei Week Festival and the Queen and Court Program has been a transformative experience that has deepened my understanding of our community, our history, and myself. 

I recall being at a Kizuna Leadership Session at Union Church in Little Tokyo, when the 2016 Nisei Week Queen and First Princess were sharing a presentation of their experience on the Court. As I listened to their stories, I was inspired by their poise, friendship, and deep love for the JA Community. Their words resonated with me, and I found myself dreaming that one day I might be fortunate enough to be a part of the Court. Eight years later, I was filled with excitement as I worked on my own application, imagining the unforgettable year that could lay ahead. Learning I was selected as the Orange County Nikkei Coordinating Council’s 2024 Miss Orange County Japanese American was an emotional moment of joy and disbelief.

 While Queen Candidate training was rigorous and challenging at times, it was a rewarding experience that pushed me to step outside my comfort zone—something I found myself doing repeatedly throughout the program. From cultural classes and dance rehearsals to appearances at obons, I gained a newfound confidence when presenting myself in front of an audience. Stepping onto the Aratani Theatre stage for Coronation was a daunting challenge that taught me I am capable of facing the things that intimidate me. This was a life changing discovery that has empowered me as a Princess throughout this year. 

From the very beginning, I was especially excited by the idea of traveling to Japan with my Court. My father and I traveled with the The Nisei Week Foundation to Nagoya, Los Angeles’s Sister City, where we were welcomed and hosted by the City of Nagoya and Pyua02. This experience in Japan was unlike any I had ever had. I felt truly immersed in the community and was given a rare, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to connect with the residents of our sister city. At the first welcome reception with Pyua02, I felt nervous about introducing myself to the Japanese businessmen and wondered if I could truly connect with them. However, I quickly discovered that sharing a mutual love for Shohei Ohtani and the Dodgers was a reliable way to form a bond with everyone! It was during our visit to Atsuta Shrine and dinner at Gomitori Izakaya that a genuine friendship began to form. Over lemon sours, Nagoya’s speciality chicken wings, and miso katsu, I had the opportunity to learn more about their lives and culture, while also sharing stories about life in Los Angeles and my excitement to be back in Japan. 

The City of Nagoya and LANSCA (Los Angeles Nagoya Sister City Affiliation) graciously hosted us at their Sister City Festival, where we were invited to perform a special dance at OASIS21 and participate in their Festival Parade. Throughout these events, I was overwhelmed by the warmth and hospitality of the people of Nagoya. Being in the parade and witnessing the joyful faces of everyone there, all celebrating the bond between our sister cities, was an experience I’ll never forget. After returning to Los Angeles, we were excited to reunite with our LANSCA friends for Nagoya Day in Century City. The relationship between our sister cities is palpable, and made possible by the strength of our communities, respect for each other’s culture, and genuine friendship. Seeing this firsthand, I felt an even greater sense of pride and gratitude for my Japanese heritage. Our sister city relationship is celebrating 65 years, reminding me of our community’s resilience, and that our connection can go beyond borders or generations. I feel inspired to continue fostering these relationships, both in the JA community and beyond. 

Participating in Nisei Week has introduced me to amazing people, including 5 extraordinary women who will make for strong voices in our community. I am grateful for the girls I’m serving with on this Court and it’s been such a rewarding experience to meet women who share my passion for the community. Throughout Candidate training, our community events, and our trip to Japan, I feel fortunate to have these amazing people by my side who I can share these memories with. 

What does Nisei Week mean to me? It means more than just a festival celebration. It’s about forming meaningful connections within the Little Tokyo community, where I have had the privilege of connecting with passionate individuals who share a deep appreciation for our heritage. It’s about the bonds I’ve built with my sisters on the Court. Nisei Week extends beyond the local community, creating connections that span across the world. To me, Nisei Week is a reminder of the power of community, the strength of sisterhood, and the lasting impact of cultural exchange.