Bridges built at second annual BCCJ Community Hub night

In addition to our own community programme, Books For Smiles, the BCCJ strives to support a number of not-for-profit organisations across Japan – including local NPOs and volunteer groups.

At our Community Hub event – Powered by PechaKucha on October 15, BCCJ members and guests heard moving and engaging presentations from six not-for-profit organisations, which illustrated their charitable work and achievements across a variety of community projects. The enthusiasm and commitment proved an inspiration for BCCJ member companies interested in supporting good causes and driving responsible business.

Using PechaKucha’s internationally successful presentation format – 20 slides x 20 seconds – BCCJ members learned how businesses can collaborate with charitable organisations and make positive contributions to Japanese civil society through support and donations. The event was held at the avant-garde venue SuperDeluxe, owned by BCCJ Entrepreneur member, Mark Dytham (Klein Dytham Architecture) where guests could enjoy the presentations, socialise, and network in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.

The presentations were packed with interesting information, encouraging stories, and sobering facts. Animal Refuge Kansai (ARK) and HEART Tokushima highlighted their educational projects and efforts to find homes for abandoned animals, with touching stories of individual animals, who after suffering and neglect, now have a safe home.

The British School in Tokyo / United World Schools presented their achievements in building a school in northern Cambodia and their successes in strengthening ties between pupils in different countries.

Mirai no Mori, which supports children and young adults in care through summer camp activities, introduced individual stories of children who have thrived and gained great confidence as a result of their exhilarating experiences in the outdoors and their chance to learn English.

PangeaSeed Japan gave inspiring examples of campaigns to raise awareness about ocean conservation and sharks through art and education.

Peace Boat talked about their dedication to promoting peace, human rights, sustainable development and respect for the environment.

Other participating organisations such as Tell, RIJ and OGA for Aid were present to provide insights into their ongoing projects and achievements.

The evening saw bridges built between organisation representatives and BCCJ member firms, and paths forged for a better understanding of the ways in which businesses can support local NPOs and volunteer groups.

This event was made possible thanks to the support of PechaKucha and founder Mark Dytham, of BCCJ Entrepreneur member Klein Dytham architecture.

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See photos from the evening on the BCCJ’s Flickr page

See upcoming BCCJ events HERE