President’s Message
from Brian Tsuji
Dear Friends,
2020 has been a challenging and transforming year. In response to the COVID-19 virus, the Foundation’s staff adapted to new ways to work remotely, we shifted our calendar of activities, and we cancelled our annual fundraising gala. However, the Foundation was fortunate to have the continued kindness, support and generosity of our donors. In this past year, we have found more donors giving online than ever before. Donors came together this past Giving Tuesday to raise over $6500 in a single day in support of Nikkei Place charities!
2020 also marked the passing of Robert Banno, Q.C., the founding President of the Nikkei Place Foundation. Robert was instrumental in the Foundation’s growth and current success. The Foundation and the Japanese Canadian community will miss his strong leadership, his kindness and generous spirit and heart. As the new President, I look forward to continuing what Robert began. While he leaves behind big shoes to fill, it is my hope to continue with his vision. Our thoughts are with Cathy and his family.
With the vaccination program now being implemented in British Columbia, we are hopeful that COVID-19 will be brought under control and that we will be able to come together in 2021.
We look forward to hosting our annual Foundation Gala to honour the outstanding achievements of some of the members of our Japanese Canadian community and join in an enjoyable evening of friendship and fundraising for Nikkei Place. We will keep you posted on our plans for the Gala in 2021!
This year, we will also see the temporary departure of Naomi Kawamura who has been our NPF Executive Director since 2017. Naomi has done an excellent job in her position and has helped to make our organization more efficient and collegial. We will miss Naomi who will be taking a leave of absence to concentrate on her PHD studies at UBC.
As we begin 2021, we look forward to a better year ahead, sharing more opportunities to build community and connection.
Sincerely,
Brian Tsuji
Board President