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International Citizens Award - 国際市民賞

Frank Buckley

Frank Buckley is the award-winning co-anchor of KTLA 5 Morning News, hosting the flagship weekday broadcast from 7:00–11:00 AM. He joined KTLA in June 2005 after serving as a correspondent with KCAL‑TV and CNN.

Buckley also hosts the nationally syndicated weekly show and podcast “Frank Buckley Interviews”, and co-anchors “Inside California Politics”. Throughout his career, he has reported on major international and regional events, including hurricanes in the Caribbean, earthquakes in Kobe and Northridge, wildfires in Southern California, the Los Angeles riots, and high-profile trials such as O.J. Simpson.

In recognition of his longstanding efforts to strengthen Japan–U.S. relations, Buckley received the Consul General’s Commendation from the Japanese Consulate in Los Angeles in September 2024. He was also an early member of the U.S.–Japan Council, and participated in the 2006 Japanese American Leadership Delegation to Japan.

Frank frequently lends his voice and presence to community engagement events, serving as an MC and host for organizations such as JAPAN HOUSE Los Angeles, the Japanese American National Museum, and the Japan–America Society of Southern California—where he is also honored as this year’s recipient of the Kokusai Shimin Sho (International Citizens Award) for his exemplary public service and community leadership.

Mikio Toki

Mikio Toki is a master of traditional Edo-style kite making and a beloved cultural ambassador of Japan. Since 2001, he has visited Southern California annually to lead the Japan America Society of Southern California’s Japanese Kite Workshops, teaching thousands of local elementary school students—many from under-resourced communities—how to illustrate, construct, and fly handmade kites using washi paper and bamboo. Through these workshops, Toki has introduced Japanese culture to more than 18,000 children in Southern California.

Born in Tokyo in 1950, Toki was drawn to kites from a young age and pursued formal training in graphic design. He later apprenticed under the founder of the Edo Kite Preservation Society, Katsuhisa Ota, and became known for his beautifully painted Edo kites that feature samurai, mythical creatures, and traditional symbols rendered in sumi ink and vibrant colors. His kites are works of art that come to life in the sky.

In addition to his artistry, Toki has dedicated his life to education and cultural exchange, sharing his work at major venues like Walt Disney World and the Smithsonian Museum. His legacy continues through his daughter, Asami, who is also a kite maker.

JASSC is proud to present Mikio Toki with the Kokusai Shimin Sho (International Citizens Award) in recognition of his lifelong dedication to cultural outreach and Japan–U.S. friendship.

 

Next Generation Rising Star Award

美麗-Bi-ray-

美麗-Bi-ray- is an emerging J-pop girl group produced by legendary musician YOSHIKI, known for his work with X Japan and global collaborations. Launched in 2024, 美麗-Bi-ray- made an immediate impact with their debut single “Butterfly,” showcasing a bold blend of powerful vocals, captivating choreography, and a fresh, international appeal. The group’s name, “美麗-Bi-ray-”, symbolizes a duality of light and strength—embodying beauty, diversity, and forward-looking creativity.

Handpicked through a competitive global audition, 美麗-Bi-ray-’s members hail from diverse backgrounds, united by a shared passion for music and performance. Under YOSHIKI’s mentorship, they are redefining what it means to be a next-generation global pop act, blending traditional Japanese influences with modern pop sensibilities.

In recognition of their artistic promise and cross-cultural influence, the Japan America Society of Southern California is proud to present 美麗-Bi-ray- with the Next Generation Rising Star Award. As they rise to international stages, 美麗-Bi-ray- represents the bright future of global cultural exchange and the enduring power of music to connect people—citizen to citizen.

Master of Ceremonies

Mitchell T. Maki

Dr. Mitchell T. Maki is the President and CEO of the Go For Broke National Education Center, a nonprofit dedicated to preserving the legacy of Nisei World War II veterans. A leading scholar on the Japanese American redress movement, he is the author of the award-winning book Achieving the Impossible Dream: How Japanese Americans Obtained Redress, which received the Gustavus Myers Outstanding Book Award.

He has held senior academic leadership roles at California State University, Dominguez Hills and UCLA, and is recognized internationally as a speaker on social justice and civil rights. Dr. Maki earned his Ph.D. and M.S.W. from the University of Southern California and is a licensed clinical social worker.

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