Jun Hori san, a journalist, shared his profound experiences and insights on human rights and disaster response with the DGS students on Friday, June 7th in the Community Engagement Workshop II course taught by GS lecturer, Masa Kawamukai sensei. He recounted his visits to the Noto earthquake and the war in Gaza, where he engaged directly with affected individuals to understand their real needs.

After leaving NHK, Hori san founded his own news media team, 8bitnews, with a mission to leverage mass media for reporting and sharing news. His approach emphasizes not just covering the tragedies but also finding and highlighting practical solutions. Hori san is dedicated to uncovering the true needs of people in crisis and delivering impactful, solution-oriented journalism.

In the presentation, Hori san shared his experience and gave students a real look at what happened with people after the Noto earthquake, also in Gaza.

On June 4th, 2024, DGS students attended a fascinating talk by Professor Sam Lebovic from the Department of History and Art History at George Mason University, as part of our Changemakers Series of guest speakers.

The title of Professor Lebovic's talk was 'The Americanization of Global Culture and Debates about Cultural Globalization'. It provided insight into the complex processes of cultural globalization and stimulated critical thinking about its implications for global society.

Professor Lebovic discussed the influence of American culture, and how it has spread across the world, impacting local cultures and traditions - referring mostly to American movies, music, and food - providing reflections on its complexities and controversies. He also discussed the evolving nature of globalization and its impact on economic, political, and social structures over time.

Professor Lebovic is the author of several books and articles. Those interested can find more information about his work here: https://historyarthistory.gmu.edu/people/slebovic

On May 28th, 2024, DGS students attended a talk on campus by Lucia Vancura, co-founder and director of Meros Consulting Japan, entitled "Building the Resilient Food Systems of the Future."

The talk covered three main topics: (1) the challenges confronting global food production and trade; (2) insights into building a career in these fields through personal experiences; and (3) the intricacies of doing business in Japan as a foreign woman in a company co-founded by four women.

First, the discussion delved into the pressing issues affecting global food production and agriculture sustainability. Next, the speaker shared her personal journey navigating the realms of food, agriculture, and international trade. Lastly, the talk provided valuable insights into the complexities of doing business in Japan as a foreign woman. Drawing from firsthand experiences, the speaker shed light on the unique cultural nuances, regulatory landscapes, and market dynamics that entrepreneurs encounter when establishing and growing a company in Japan. These insights offered practical guidance for aspiring entrepreneurs and women seeking success in the Japanese market.

DGS professors would like to extend thanks to Lucia Vancura for delivering such an interesting talk. They would also like to thank their students for being part of this successful gathering. The students' presence and their questions made the event more productive and enjoyable for all.

On May 14th, 2024, DGS students attended a talk by Dr. Mahon Murphy, an Associate Professor in the Graduate School of Law at Kyoto University. Professor Murphy specializes in International History. In his talk, he offered insights on the peacemaking process between the European Union and Northern Ireland.

The role of the European Union was fundamental to the establishment of peace in Northern Ireland and the signing of the Good Friday Agreement in April 1998. The Good Friday Agreement ended most of the violence that had been ongoing since the 1960s, a period referred to as the ’troubles'. With Britain’s decision to leave the EU after the 'Brexit' Referendum in 2016, the future of the Good Friday Agreement and peace in Northern Ireland was cast into doubt. This lecture provided a historical background to the EU’s role in the establishment of peace in Northern Ireland and what it can teach us about today's world of political unrest.

DGS teachers would like to extend thanks to Dr Mahon Murphy for delivering such an interesting presentation. We would also like to thank our students for being part of our successful gathering. Your presence made it more productive and enjoyable.