We hosted a heartwarming event Kansha (感謝) on September 22, 2024, to commemorate over 24 years of working together to foster the Nikkei National Museum & Cultural Centre (NNMCC). The event was a gathering of past and present NNMCC Auxiliary and Board volunteers, united in their shared passion for furthering our mission: to honour, preserve and share the history and heritage of Japanese Canadians and Japanese culture in Canada.
Kansha, a Japanese word that signifies deep gratitude, was a fitting theme for this celebration. In his opening remarks, President of the Board, Herb Ono, expressed our sincere appreciation to everyone who has contributed to the NNMCC over the years. He highlighted the extraordinary efforts of the Kansha organizing committee, including Yoshi Hashimoto, Frank Kamiya, Cheryl Honkawa, Kaori Yano, Reiko Kurushima, and Yukiko Nishikawa.
Attendees were treated to a multi-course lunch served with omotenashi by our dedicated staff. Zmi’s soothing piano melodies set the tone for a relaxing afternoon, while a fun game introduced new staff members to the volunteers. The lively performance by Vancouver Okinawa Taiko filled the room with energy and excitement. And, everyone had a blast creating lasting memories at the photobooth with old and new friends.
As the NNMCC looks towards its next 25 years, the Kansha event served as a reminder of the importance of volunteers, community, and the power of gratitude. Through the dedication and passion of our volunteers, the NNMCC continues to be a vital cultural institution, honouring the past and embracing the future.
We gratefully acknowledge support from the Community Fund of the Japanese Canadian Legacies Society.
