"Creating spaces for diverse voices and experiences to nurture new Japan-Canada networks."
Dr. Scott Harrison
Connecting Histories, Shaping Futures
"Creating spaces for diverse voices and experiences to nurture new Japan-Canada networks."
Dr. Scott Harrison
Connecting Histories, Shaping Futures
Scott Harrison, a research fellow at the David Lam Centre for Asian Research at Simon Fraser University, is launching a pilot project to establish a new network of individuals interested in Japan-Canada relations through a series of informal discussions with experts from diverse fields. This initiative responds to the observation that despite 92 years of diplomatic relations and strong bilateral ties, the relationship between Japan and Canada has settled into a state of mutual contentment that limits deeper engagement. By creating accessible forums featuring speakers with unique Japan and Japan-Canada-related experiences, the project aims to expand spaces for Japan-curious researchers at all stages of their careers and studies to gather and meet. This project is supported and funded by The Japan Foundation.
Scott Harrison, a research fellow at the David Lam Centre for Asian Research at Simon Fraser University, is launching a pilot project to establish a new network of individuals interested in Japan-Canada relations through a series of informal discussions with experts from diverse fields. This initiative responds to the observation that despite 92 years of diplomatic relations and strong bilateral ties, the relationship between Japan and Canada has settled into a state of mutual contentment that limits deeper engagement. By creating accessible forums featuring speakers with unique Japan and Japan-Canada-related experiences, the project aims to expand spaces for Japan-curious researchers at all stages of their careers and studies to gather and meet. This project is supported and funded by The Japan Foundation.
Key Insights
Vancouver's position as Canada's gateway to Japan and Asia has not translated into the development of grassroots, well-informed layperson exchanges. Unlike cities such as New York or locations in the United Kingdom that host vibrant Japan Societies, Western Canada lacks equivalent organizations that bring together diverse stakeholders outside traditional and formal parameters. This gap represents a missed opportunity for creating mentorship relationships and generating innovative ideas that could enhance bilateral relations across multiple sectors.
The project aims to prioritize diverse speakers, participation, and informal dialogue. By deliberately creating space for students, young professionals, working holiday visitors, and academics to interact with experts sharing personal rather than institutional perspectives, the initiative aims to inject new energy into Japan-Canada relations. This grassroots approach could potentially lay the foundation for a Japan Society-like organization in Vancouver that bridges academic, business, and public spheres—ultimately contributing to solving specific regional and global challenges through strengthened bilateral engagement.
Key Insights
Vancouver's position as Canada's gateway to Japan and Asia has not translated into the development of grassroots, well-informed layperson exchanges. Unlike cities such as New York or locations in the United Kingdom that host vibrant Japan Societies, Western Canada lacks equivalent organizations that bring together diverse stakeholders outside traditional and formal parameters. This gap represents a missed opportunity for creating mentorship relationships and generating innovative ideas that could enhance bilateral relations across multiple sectors.
The project aims to prioritize diverse speakers, participation, and informal dialogue. By deliberately creating space for students, young professionals, working holiday visitors, and academics to interact with experts sharing personal rather than institutional perspectives, the initiative aims to inject new energy into Japan-Canada relations. This grassroots approach could potentially lay the foundation for a Japan Society-like organization in Vancouver that bridges academic, business, and public spheres—ultimately contributing to solving specific regional and global challenges through strengthened bilateral engagement.
View Article
This pilot project will run from late March to late May 2025. For specific event details, visit the David Lam Centre’s events page.
Japan-Canada Research and Policy Network. David Lam Centre for Asian Studies, Simon Fraser University. With support from The Japan Foundation
View Article
This pilot project will run from late March to late May 2025. For specific event details, visit the David Lam Centre’s events page.
Japan-Canada Research and Policy Network. David Lam Centre for Asian Studies, Simon Fraser University. With support from The Japan Foundation
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