The US Japan Council Emerging Leaders Program (ELP) 2025 is a prestigious, fully funded leadership initiative that supports the next generation of Japanese American professionals. Designed for those aged 24 to 35, the program empowers participants through leadership development, cultural engagement, and direct involvement with the U.S.-Japan Council’s broad and influential network.
Established in 2010, ELP offers selected fellows an immersive experience during the U.S.-Japan Council Annual Conference, which in 2025 will be held in Honolulu, Hawaii. Fellows attend leadership workshops, network with top leaders from business, government, and civil society, and actively contribute to fostering U.S.-Japan relations. Participants also receive a one-year Associate Membership in USJC, typically extended by nomination.
ELP is more than just a conference experience—it is a long-term investment in Japanese American leadership. Through alumni-led events like the U40 Summit and global collaborations such as the ELP50 initiative in Japan, fellows stay connected and continue to drive impact in their communities and across borders.
This initiative continues to receive support from a wide range of donors and foundations, allowing each class of fellows to participate at no personal cost while joining a growing network of over 170 alumni leaders committed to advancing U.S.-Japan relations.
Quick Overview of the US Japan Council Emerging Leaders Program 2025
- Host Country: United States (Honolulu, Hawaii)
- Host Organization: U.S.-Japan Council (USJC)
- Deadline: June 29, 2025 (11:59 PM PT)
- Program Dates: October 13–17, 2025
- Value: Fully funded (includes airfare, hotel, meals, and full conference registration)
- Age Limit: 24–35 years old (as of October 13, 2025)
- Eligibility: Japanese American professionals residing in the U.S. or Japan; U.S. citizens or legal permanent residents
Perks of the Fully Funded Leadership Fellowship in the US 2025
- Attend the prestigious U.S.-Japan Council Annual Conference in Honolulu
- Receive full travel, lodging, and meal coverage for the entire conference
- One-year complimentary Associate Membership in USJC
- Engage with national and international leaders in U.S.-Japan relations
- Access exclusive alumni events, including the U40 Summit and ELP50
Benefits of the Honolulu Leadership Fellowship 2025
- Education: Learn directly from U.S.-Japan leaders in government, business, and nonprofit sectors
- Career: Gain exposure and expand your professional network across continents
- Personal Development: Strengthen your leadership style and deepen your cultural identity and community impact
What is not included in the Leadership Development Program 2025
- Not open to applicants outside the Japanese American community
- Must be available to travel to Honolulu and participate in all scheduled events
- All application materials must be submitted in English and by the deadline
Eligibility Criteria of the US Japan Council Emerging Leaders Program 2025
- Must be of Japanese heritage
- Age between 24 and 35 as of October 13, 2025
- Must be a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident
- Residing in the U.S. or Japan with the ability to travel to Honolulu
- Demonstrated leadership and commitment to U.S.-Japan relations
- Willingness to stay actively involved in USJC initiatives beyond the program
Important Dates of the Emerging Leaders Program 2025
- Informational Sessions:
- June 12, 2025 (5:00 – 6:00 PM PT)
- June 18, 2025 (5:00 – 6:00 PM PT)
- Application Deadline: June 29, 2025 (11:59 PM PT)
- Application Review: July–August 2025
- Notifications: Mid-August 2025
- Pre-Conference Orientation (virtual): September 11, 2025
- Conference Dates in Honolulu: October 13–17, 2025
- Post-Conference Debrief (virtual): November 13, 2025
How to Apply to the ELP by US Japan Council 2025
- Go to the Application Page
- Fill out the application form with accurate personal and professional information
- Prepare and submit the following materials in English:
- Resume (max 2 pages)
- Personal Statement (max 2 pages)
- One or two Letters of Recommendation
- Short video introduction (max 3 minutes)
- (Optional) Supplemental materials or links
- Submit your complete application by June 29, 2025
Required Documents for Emerging Leaders Program 2025
- Resume or CV (2 pages max)
- Personal Statement covering motivation, leadership style, connection to U.S.-Japan relations, and future goals
- One or two recommendation letters
- Short video introducing yourself and explaining your interest in the program
- Optional: Supporting materials or project links
Country-Specific Criteria
- Open to Japanese American professionals residing in the United States or Japan
- Must be a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident
