Youth Leadership Development: Building Future Leaders Through Our Debate Competitions
August 1, 2024
Name: Chhunnay BIN, Partnerships and Development Coordinator at PEPY Empowering Youth
Course: JENESYS Cambodia-Japan Civil Society Exchange
Host Organization: JICE, in Japan
Length of Exchange: 24th November – 2nd December, 2025
1. Overview
I recently had the opportunity to participate in the JENESYS Civil Society Exchange Program, an initiative designed to strengthen people-to-people connections between Japan and countries across the Asia-Pacific. The program aims to deepen participants’ understanding of Japan’s economy, culture, society, history, and diplomacy. More importantly, it encourages long-term relationships and inspires participants to share their insights and experiences after returning home.
2. Key places to visit
Throughout the exchange, I visited a variety of institutions, organizations, and cultural sites across Yokohama, Tokyo, Osaka, Shiga, and Kyoto. Each location offered unique lessons on community engagement, government cooperation, and nonprofit development.
Some of the notable places included:
- Yokohama City Civic Collaboration Promotion Center
- Ministry of Foreign Affairs (First Southeast Asia Division)
- Japan NPO Center
- Osaka City Hall & Citizens’ Affairs Bureau
- NPO Enkatsu & Ritto City Tourism Association
- Kyoto Tourism and Culture Study Group “Miyakogusa.”
These visits helped me understand how Japanese institutions work closely with citizens to promote transparency, cultural preservation, and community involvement.
I also explored well-known cultural and historical sites such as Jingū Gaien Park, the Yokohama riverfront, Osaka city, Sensoji Temple, Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), and many parts of Tokyo’s vibrant city life. These experiences gave me a deeper appreciation for Japan’s balance between tradition and innovation.
2. Key places to visit
Throughout the exchange, I visited a variety of institutions, organizations, and cultural sites across Yokohama, Tokyo, Osaka, Shiga, and Kyoto. Each location offered unique lessons on community engagement, government cooperation, and nonprofit development.
Some of the notable places included:
- Yokohama City Civic Collaboration Promotion Center
- Ministry of Foreign Affairs (First Southeast Asia Division)
- Japan NPO Center
- Osaka City Hall & Citizens’ Affairs Bureau
- NPO Enkatsu & Ritto City Tourism Association
- Kyoto Tourism and Culture Study Group “Miyakogusa.”
These visits helped me understand how Japanese institutions work closely with citizens to promote transparency, cultural preservation, and community involvement.
I also explored well-known cultural and historical sites such as Jingū Gaien Park, the Yokohama riverfront, Osaka city, Sensoji Temple, Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), and many parts of Tokyo’s vibrant city life. These experiences gave me a deeper appreciation for Japan’s balance between tradition and innovation.
3. Challenge and Surprises
The journey was exciting, but it came with challenges. I had to adapt quickly to a fast-paced schedule, strict punctuality, and a new transportation system in big cities. Communication in different languages and managing long program days also tested my adaptability. One small but surprising challenge was finding water filter stations to refill my bottle!
These challenges, however, taught me resilience and helped me grow more confident in navigating unfamiliar environments.
4. Overall Reflection
This exchange program was truly eye-opening. It strengthened my understanding of nonprofit work, government collaboration, and community participation in Japan. I was especially inspired by how Japanese organizations build trust through transparency and engagement, something I hope to apply in my work in Cambodia.
On a personal level, the program improved my cross-cultural communication skills, adaptability, and confidence. The lessons I gained will support my ongoing efforts in youth development and community engagement.
Through this program, I also discovered why Japan is considered one of the best places in the world to visit and study. The country’s blend of safety, efficiency, cultural richness, and strong educational values creates an environment where people can learn, grow, and feel inspired.
I am grateful for this opportunity and remain committed to sharing what I learned, fostering connections, and encouraging more collaboration between Cambodia and Japan.
