About Intercultural Association of Japan (ICAJ)
The Intercultural Association of Japan (ICAJ) was founded in 2025 as a community-based social organization dedicated to supporting foreign residents in Japan.
ICAJ stands alongside those facing challenges unique to life as a foreigner—such as adapting to cultural differences, overcoming systemic barriers, dealing with isolation, and finding a sense of belonging. Our aim is to create a warm, family-like community where foreign residents can feel supported at every stage of their journey.
We provide not only language and daily-life support, but also mental well-being assistance, advocacy for fair treatment, and opportunities for connection through community and intercultural events. By doing so, ICAJ is working to build an inclusive environment where individuals and families can live with confidence, joy, and a true sense of belonging.
OUR VISION AND MISSION
Our Vision
ICAJ envisions a more inclusive and welcoming Japan where all foreign residents can thrive, contribute meaningfully, and feel a genuine sense of community and belonging.
Our Mission
Our mission is to build a warm, family-like community where foreign residents are never alone. Through language support, cultural integration, mental well-being care, advocacy for fair treatment, and community engagement, we strive to break down barriers and create spaces of respect, love, and mutual understanding.
We believe that only by standing together can we overcome challenges such as cultural misunderstandings, inequality, and isolation. At ICAJ, every individual’s involvement matters — whether you join our programs, volunteer, or simply share your voice, you become part of the movement toward a more connected and compassionate society.
Join us in creating a Japan where diversity is celebrated and everyone can live with dignity, joy, and belonging.
Founder’s Message
Born in Japan and raised in North America, I deeply understand the struggles and challenges immigrants face when adapting to a new culture and society. At the age of 14, I moved to the United States and Canada, spending over 30 years abroad, where I experienced firsthand the difficulties and loneliness of living as a minority.
Driven by a strong passion for Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI), I authored Voices Unheard, sharing my personal experiences of overcoming biases and systemic barriers in the workplace with many people.
In Canada, I demonstrated leadership as the president and board member of a youth sports organization. Additionally, with four years of experience in fundraising at a Canadian university, I gained extensive knowledge about the structure and operations of nonprofit organizations and fundraising activities. Furthermore, my past experience working as a marketing manager enables me to contribute to the management of this organization in various ways.
Now, having returned to Japan, I established the Intercultural Association of Japan (ICAJ) with the hope of supporting those who face similar challenges as foreign residents in Japan.
Through ICAJ, I promise to help create an environment where foreign residents in Japan are warmly welcomed, receive appropriate support, and can thrive while being true to themselves.
Lena Imada / イマダ レナ
President / CEO
Mariko Shimizu / 清水 真理子
Shigeki Imada / 今田 茂樹
Director
Treasurer
Sara Kondo / 近藤 紗果
一般社団法人ICAJ 理事