FEC (The International Friendship and Economic Exchange Council) Secretariat 
Representative Director, Reborn Academy (a general incorporated association)
Dear Eigetsu
<Organization overview>
Starting as a small classroom in 2010, and believing that "if Japan improves, the world will improve too," the Reborn Academy was founded in 2016 to cultivate individuals who can pass on Japanese culture and the spirit of harmony. They have developed and are expanding their unique Eigetsu-ryu calligraphy style, "Shin Yamato Moji®," which also teaches Japanese culture; the "Wabunka Ambassador®" program, which fuses Japanese culture, etiquette, tea ceremony, calligraphy, and Shinto and Buddhism useful in daily life; and the "Jingaku Shoin," which recreates Edo-period scholarship (Confucianism) for the modern age.
As a calligrapher and Japanese culture ambassador, I have continued my activities to convey Japanese spiritual culture both domestically and internationally. I deeply resonate with the philosophy of "citizen diplomacy" advocated by FEC, and I decided to join because I believe that in order to build trusting relationships with countries around the world, it is essential to first respect and communicate our own country's history and culture with reverence. Initially, I had high hopes for opportunities to interact with various embassies and deepen my understanding of international affairs.
FEC maintains connections with embassies in 88 countries, providing its members with high-quality opportunities for international exchange. Chairman Ken Matsuzawa himself visits Yasukuni Shrine every month and always makes a point of visiting Gokoku Shrines during his travels. This commitment is a symbol of "pride" and "respect" in private diplomacy, and this spirit permeates all of FEC's activities. Building international connections in such an environment is an invaluable asset.
What I remember most fondly is having direct conversations with ambassadors and diplomats from various countries at a reception hosted by the FEC. The chairman's belief that "respect for one's own country first generates respect from the world" resonates with my own guiding principles in international cultural exchange activities.
The insights into international affairs and the personal networks gained through FEC have been a great support in promoting Japanese culture overseas. In particular, we are now able to introduce Japanese culture while taking into account the historical background and values of each country, which has significantly improved the quality of exchanges through calligraphy and Japanese culture.
Unlike other international exchange organizations, FEC practices "diplomacy with soul," valuing history, culture, and trust, rather than merely formal goodwill. The consistent stance of the chairman and the overwhelming breadth of its network spanning 88 countries are both what make FEC uniquely appealing.
I highly recommend this to business leaders, cultural figures, and educators who are proud of their own country's culture and history and wish to broaden their international perspective. In particular, FEC will be an ideal place for those who want to engage with the world through the lens of Japanese spiritual culture.
FEC is not merely an exchange organization, but a "stage" to showcase Japanese pride and courtesy to the world. We are confident that the encounters and experiences here will enhance your own activities and enrich your life. We hope that many people will experience the joy of connecting with the world while keeping the Japanese spirit in their hearts.