Fukushima JET Programme Support System
Prefectural Advisors
The Prefectural Advisor system is an integral part of the JET Programme. The PA is able to lend an understanding ear to participants when he or she is in need of one, and may be able to help the JET find a solution to problems that might arise while he or she is in Japan. Prefectural Advisors receive basic training in problem solving techniques, and are bound by strict codes of ethics and confidentiality. You can feel free to chat with the PAs, in confidence, about whatever might be on your mind.
Please understand that the Prefectural Advisors are in no way 'in charge' of the JET Programme in Fukushima, and are in no way able to 'direct' individual supervisors or Contracting Organizations. PAs, therefore, are not magical problem solvers. We are, however, able to assist conflicting parties in breaking down the barriers to communication that often lead to problems in the workplace, and can even interpret in meetings when the need arises.
Fukushima Prefecture PAs are available during work hours, and outside of work hours by appointment only. Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions, concerns, or just need to chat!
PA Introduction
JET PAs
Annabelle Purnomo
Hello everyone! My name is Annabelle and I’m from Vancouver, Canada.
I work as a CIR at the International Affairs Division of the Fukushima Prefectural Government.
I came to Fukushima in August 2025, and have been enjoying the land, and its views, fruit, and people every day ever since.
I was born and raised in Vancouver, where I did school in French in elementary and middle school, and became interested in learning Japanese in high school. Throughout university, I continued to learn and teach others. My love for language and cultural exchange (i.e., talking with people) is what brought me here, so I’m looking forward to hearing from you!
Please feel free to reach out if you have any concerns with your life in Japan!
Work Phone: 024-521-7183
Work E-mail: purnomo_annabelle_01@pref.fukushima.lg.jp
Private E-mail: annabelle.purnomo@gmail.com
Daniel Watson
Kia ora koutou!
My name is Dani and I’m from the garden city of Christchurch, New Zealand. I have been working as a CIR in Fukushima Prefecture since August 2024. I am loving it so far with all the new experiences and cannot wait to explore the area more and get to know more of the lovely people.
I started studying Japanese in 2013, and even after university I kept up the study while also interacting as much as I could with the local Japanese population. I developed a love of the people, the culture, as well as the language through an interest in linguistics. I finally decided to take the plunge and apply for the JET programme, and now here I am. This is my first time outside of the country, so I still cannot believe that I am in Japan, but I am so extraordinarily happy to be here.
If you have any problems or would like to explore the prefecture with me, please feel free to reach out.
Work Phone: 024-521-7183
Work E-mail: watson_daniel_01@pref.fukushima.lg.jp
Private E-mail: drw77drw@gmail.com
Ngā mihi
Japanese PAs
Kuribayashi Mika
Phone: 024-521-7183
E-mail: kokusai@pref.fukushima.lg.jp
Sasaki Natsumi
Phone: 024-521-7183
E-mail: kokusai@pref.fukushima.lg.jp
Area Support Leaders
What is the Area Support Leader System?
The Area Support Leader System provides JET participants living in Fukushima Prefecture with a nearby support system to turn to when they are in need of basic information pertaining to their local areas.
Who are the Area Support Leaders?
The Area Support Leaders are all current JETs who volunteer to be available outside of regular hours.
What is their role?
To answer questions about life in your area of the prefecture, or just to lend an ear when you need to chat.
How can I contact my Area Support Leader?
There are Area Support Leaders in each region of the prefecture (7 in total). To find out who is nearest you, please check the info below!
ASL Introduction
Lucinda Morris- Kenpoku Area
Hello! My full name is Lucinda but you can call me Lu! I’m a 3rd year Elementary/Junior High ALT and I’m from the US.
I live in Fukushima City, and I love exploring new places– restaurants, cafes, bars, onsens, shops, etc– so I’ve got plenty of recommendations for anyone looking to go out and have fun! I love our little community here and I’ve enjoyed putting on fun events over the years.
I hope to be someone that everyone, newbies and senpais, can rely on for support if they need it! I’m looking forward to being your Kenpoku ALT!
Email: lwmo1064@gmail.com
Kenpoku Area:
Fukushima City, Nihonmatsu City, Date City, Motomiya City, Koori Town, Kunimi Town, Kawamata Town, Otama Village
Fern Gillespie - Kenchu Area
Hello, and welcome to Fukushima! My name is Fern, and I’m a 2nd year ALT currently living in Koriyama. It’s nice to meet you! 
Despite its population, Fukushima Prefecture very much has a rural charm to it, which means a lot of fresh fruit, beautiful scenery, unique festivals, and warm neighbors. Whether it’s a roadtrip to see Miharu’s Takizakura– one of Japan’s oldest sakura trees– or a visit to Koriyama’s Big-i– the world’s highest planetarium– we have an assortment of both rural and city activities to enjoy in the Kenchuu region.
Moving to a new place can be quite intimidating and stressful, so please feel free to reach out if you need a listening ear. I’m always excited to hang out with friends, and I’m almost always online.
Feel free to say hi whenever~
Email: tia.gills.pie@gmail.com
Kenchu Area:
Koriyama City, Sukagawa City, Tamura City, Kagamiishi Town, Ten-ei Village, Ishikawa Town, Tamakawa Village, Hirata Village, Asakawa Town, Furudono Town, Miharu Town, Ono Town
Ashton-Kate - Kennan Area
Hello! My name is Ashton-Kate, but you’re welcome to call me AK.
I live in Izumizaki in the Kennan area, and I’m originally from Iowa in the United States.
In my free time, I love reading, hiking, following F1, and watching women’s basketball. The Kennan area is known for its beautiful seasonal scenery and peaceful, rural atmosphere, perfect for enjoying nature all year long.
I’m happy to be the Kennan ASL this year, so please feel free to reach out anytime if you need help or just want to chat!
Email: ashtonveal@gmail.com
Kennan Area:
Shirakawa City, Nishigo Village, Izumizaki Village, Nakajima Village, Yabuki Town, Tanagura Town, Yamatsuri Town, Hanawa Town, Samegawa Village
Osama Omar - Aizu
Hello friends! My name is Osama and I'm the ASL for the Aizu Region.
Welcome to Fukushima! Although I am a Canadian from Toronto, ON - I was born in Bangladesh
and grew up in Japan, having lived 13 of my childhood years and even graduating elementary school here. Now I reside in Yanaizu Town with my wife and kid, and hope to create a supportive community and foster meaningful partnerships.
The Aizu Region boasts a long heritage and remarkable samurai history,
as well as home to some of the highlights of Fukushima Prefecture - including the magnificent Tsuruga Castle, Inawashiro Lake, and Mt. Bandai. Perhaps the most recognized symbol of Aizu is the beloved red cow Akabeko. Yanaizu Town is also home of the Akabeko Legend, popular for the annual Naked-Man Festival at Enzoji Temple and Mitama Fireworks Festival.
With delectable regional specialties, breathtaking beauty and lots of onsens - let's enjoy Aizu together!
Please don’t hesitate to reach out for anything at all! My family and I are happy to help out in any way, or connect you to the right people.
Email: itsdoubleo@gmail.com
Aizu Area:
Aizuwakamatsu City, Kitakata City, Kitashiobara Village, Nishiaizu Town, Bandai Town, Inawashiro Town, Aizubange Town, Yugawa Village, Yanaizu Town, Mishima Town, Kaneyama Town, Showa Village, Aizumisato Town
Alexander Glaister - Minamiaizu Area
Hi everyone! My name is Alex. I am originally from the UK, and I am the ASL for Minamiaizu.
I enjoy exploring Japan, while collecting as many shrine stamps (goshuin) as I can along the way, as well as karaoke, and getting involved with cultural events.
Please visit the Minamiaizu region for the beautiful mountain views, the abundant snow and skiing in the winter, and you might even see a few monkeys! The Gonzai festival in July is also a big cultural highlight of the year.
Please contact me if you want to know more about this beautiful area of Japan, or if you need any help or support in any way!
Email: alex.glaister@protonmail.com
Minamiaizu Area:
Shimogo Town, Hinoemata Village, Tadami Town, Minamiaizu Town
Eleanor Sollitt - Soso Area
Hello! My name is Ellie, and I am the ASL for the Soso region. 
Originally from England I came to Japan just as it started to open up after COVID, so I’ve been able to see the comeback of many festivals and school events!
Soso has faced hardships in the past but the whole region is full of revitalisation and exciting experiences to explore! We have the beautiful ocean with fresh fish, a unique horse festival, amazing firework displays right over the sea! The area is so full of stories and by living here or visiting you can truly make a difference and see our beautiful prefecture grow better then ever!
I’m always down for finding hidden gems and helping those around me so please feel free to reach out to me for anything. Welcome to Fukushima!
Email: elliesollitt@gmail.com
Soso Area:
Soma City, Minamisoma City, Hirono Town, Naraha Town, Tomioka Town, Kawauchi Village, Okuma Town, Futaba Town, Namie Town, Katsurao Village, Shinchi Town, Iitate Village
Isabela Maria Aguilar - Iwaki Area
Mabuhay! I am Isabela from the Philippines. Now in my third year as an ALT, I find Iwaki both 
familiar and unique. Having grown up on Cebu Island, the ocean is my sanctuary. In Iwaki, it
serves as a reminder of home.
Known as "Sunshine City," Iwaki is home to 27 ALTs and the Iwaki FC soccer team. From the
mountains to the Pacific coast, the landscape is vast. Spots include the Coal and Fossil Museum
and Aquamarine Fukushima. Whether enjoying Joban Mono or picking fresh tomatoes and
strawberries, there is always something to do in our Sunshine City!
Feel free to reach out if you are in the area and would like to connect!
Work email: aguilar.isabela.maria@fcs.ed.jp
Personal email: isabela.aguilar@gmail.com
Iwaki Area: Iwaki City
