“As I enter my tenth year as Executive Director of VIA, I am filled with gratitude reflecting on my own journey with this organization, which began more than 30 years ago as a participant from Japan. These experiences have taught me that growth often begins with a single connection: one conversation, one shared meal, one moment of reflection. In Japanese, there is a saying, ichigo ichie, which captures the idea of treasuring each encounter as a unique opportunity. This has been a guiding principle in my life, and it is a privilege to help create such moments for others through VIA.” – Kazutoh Ishida, PhD
VIA Programs 2024-25 Annual Report
