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
Joanne Jang
Hello everyone! My name is Joanne and I’m from Vancouver, Canada. I work at the International Affairs Division at the Fukushima Prefectural Government as a CIR.
I came to Fukushima in August 2022, and I am looking forward to getting to know the region and building relationships with the locals in my area.
Having emigrated from Korea to Canada at a relatively young age, I was lucky enough to adapt to a completely new culture pretty easily while retaining the knowledge of my family's roots. So when I became interested in the Japanese culture and eventually participated in a one-year exchange program for Japan offered by my university, I was able to utilize my past experiences to settle into yet another new culture as my home. But I understand that this is a rare case, and it is common for everyone to struggle when they move countries to start a new life – and that is where I come in!
Whenever you encounter any issues regarding your life in Japan, I'm sure my name will be the first thing to come up in your head – and you're not wrong! So if you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to reach out anytime.
Work Phone: 024-521-7183
Work E-mail: jang_joanne_01@pref.fukushima.lg.jp
Private E-mail: hejokr@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 at the Fukushima International Association in Fukushima City as a CIR since August 2024.I am loving it so far with all the new experiences and cannot wait to explore the area more andget 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 have since developed a love of the people, the culture, and 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) 524-1315
Work email: cir-fukushima-kokusai@worldvillage.org
Private email: drw77drw@gmail.com
Ngā mihi.
Japanese PAs
Kuribayashi Mika
Phone: 024-521-7183
E-mail: kokusai@pref.fukushima.lg.jp
Toda Akari
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
Jesse Ludick - Kenpoku Area
Hi everyone, I'm Jesse, from Johannesburg, South Africa. I've been living in Fukushima City since March 2022.
FukushimaShi and Kenpoku have given me 3 magical years so far and will surely give the same to everyone elsewho's fortunate enough to be placed here.
I think the region strikes the perfect balance between the convenienceof city living and the peace of the countryside.
There are hidden gems waiting to be discovered everywhere from the city back alleys to the inaka back roads. Kenpoku has something for everyone, especially for those (like me) who enjoy a good cafe hop and hike.
You can also attend one of the many interesting events and festivals that are held year-round. There is a fantastic community here doing their best to breathe life into the region and I hope you'll be a part of it.
Don't hesitate to reach out for anything. Whether it's a chat, advice or travel recommendation, I'm here to help!
Email: jessedludick@gmail.com
Kenpoku Area:
Fukushima City, Nihonmatsu City, Date City, Motomiya City, Koori Town, Kunimi Town, Kawamata Town, Otama Village
Yalimar Pagan - Kenchu Area
Hi everyone! I'm Yalimar and I'm based in Koriyama.
I'm from the U.S. by way of Austin, Texas, but originally from Connecticut.
In my free time, I like to read, explore new cafés, and travel around Japan.
While I love exploring all the sights Japan has to offer, there are many attractions right here in Kenchu!
We have great hiking spots, amazing restaurants and cafes, and beautiful parks.
We also host many festivals, so check them out as they come up throughout the year!
I'm always around if you have questions, need assistance, or just want a coffee, so don’t hesitate to reach out!
Email: yalimar.pagan@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
Melissa Pulido-Jaimes - Kennan Area
Hello! I’m Melissa and I’ll be your ASL for the Kennan area.
I arrived in 2023 from California, United States.
I’ve lived there my whole life so moving to a new country after college was a big change!
I had great support when I first arrived and I can’t wait to pay it forward. Welcome to Fukushima!
I've come to find that Kennan is a humble but charming area to live in.
Many beautiful forests, scenic trails, and hidden gem cafes/restaurants.
Fukushima in general has so much to offer both culturally and historically given that
it's Japan's third largest prefecture.
I enjoy filling up my free time with things like listening to music, cooking new recipes, or visiting a cafe. 😊
Need anything? Send me an email!
Email: melissapjaimes@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
Ricardo Velasco - Minamiaizu Area
Hey, I’m Rick from the UK, where the tea is stronger than most people’s enthusiasm.
Minamiaizu is a charming corner of the world where the pace of life is slow,
the people are kind, and the nearest convenience store is only a 30-minute drive away.
It's a paradise for nature lovers and a test of endurance for the rest of us.
In the summer, you can hide from the sun on hiking trails up in the mountains,
while in the winter, it’s home to some of Fukushima’s best ski resorts,
given there’s enough snow to make you question your life choices.
If your dreams involve bears and rice fields, this is the perfect place for you.
Let me know if you're in the area.
Email: rickvel50@gmail.com
Minamiaizu Area:
Shimogo Town, Hinoemata Village, Tadami Town, Minamiaizu Town
Eleaanor 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 and so much more!
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
Tristan Charlesworth - Iwaki Area
Hello! My name is Tristan Charlesworth.
I’m originally from the west coast of Canadaand I am the ASL for Iwaki City, Fukushima.
Iwaki is a wonderful area with breathtaking beaches,beautiful plum blossoms and cherry blossoms.
Iwaki is well known for our seven beaches (each having their own mascot),
but we have so many other stunning spots!
Over the past two years, I have felt genuinely at home in Iwaki.
Its people are welcoming and the atmosphere is very comfortable.
If you get the chance, some of my top recommendations
would be: Yumoto onsen, Yumoto dinosaur/coal museum,
and Aquamarine Fukushima. You’re always welcome in Sunshine Iwaki!
Some of my hobbies include: board games, painting, exercise, and hot springs!
If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m more than happy to help in any way I can.
Email: charlesworthtristan@gmail.com
Iwaki Area: Iwaki City
