Cross-Cultural Exchange at the Kenyan Embassy: Building Competent Global Players

On November 26, Seisen International School participated in a lively and enriching cultural exchange at the Kenyan Embassy in Tokyo, reinforcing the long history of friendship between our school and the Kenyan community in Japan. This valuable global learning opportunity was facilitated by our Head of School Ms. Rogers and High School Principal Mr. Alex Lee, who led our faculty and student delegation to engage firsthand alongside students from St. Bakhita School.

The morning began with a warm welcome and lively conversation led by His Excellency Kenyan Ambassador Moi Lemoshira. The Ambassador shared personal insights into Kenya, reflected on some moments throughout his diplomatic career, and his experience visiting Japan for the first time, to our students' great amusement. The event truly kicked off with an introduction to the word 'Jambo' (meaning "hello" and said with great enthusiasm), symbolizing a happy greeting.

The exchange was facilitated by the St. Bakhita School faculty delegation, led by its Chief Principal, Mr. James Ogweno, who wore a traditional Kenyan Shuka artifact throughout the presentations.

A Day of Culture and Collaboration

Students from both schools shared pieces of their home countries. Our students gave a presentation introducing Japan and its culture, followed by details of our School's history, mission, and various activities. In turn, St. Bakhita School students shared about their school life and the beauty of Kenya.

The cultural immersion included dynamic performances: Our National Honor Society (NHS) students performed a beautiful medley of traditional Japanese music on the violin and piano, while also singing along. Following this, the St. Bakhita School team led a very lively, interactive dance segment involving a sing along "Tushangilie Kenya," a song that carries a message of unity and pride among Kenyans. Following a time for fellowship and tea, the students exchanged symbolic gifts as a token of appreciation for the connections made during their visit.

Throughout the exchange, students learned about the shared values between Kenya and Japan, such as a deep love and respect for nature and an appreciation for diversity and cooperation.

In their closing remarks, students shared their impressions of the visit, as well as their gratitude for the opportunity to meet St. Bakhita's School. Our Head of School Ms. Rogers summarized the day's cross-cultural collaboration and shared community purpose by quoting the Gaelic phrase from her native Ireland: “A scáth cheile a mhaireann na daoine,” which translates to, “Under the shelter of each other, people survive.” The visit concluded with heartfelt farewell remarks offered by Embassy representatives, the St. Bakhita School delegation, and our Head of School.

Overall, this visit was a clear reminder of the long history of collaboration between our school and the Kenyan community in Japan built over many years. We look forward to continuing this relationship with love, openness, and our distinctive spirit of collaboration as a diverse, compassionate, and empowered learning community. The students took a commemorative photo outside the Embassy, marking a truly unforgettable morning of cross-cultural understanding.