LIFE, an Organization Dedicated to Alleviating Poverty in Indonesia's Remote Islands, Hosts its 40th Anniversary Event. Includes a Participatory Workshop on 'What We Can Do for International Cooperation' Over Indonesian Snacks.

The specified non-profit organization 'Walk with the Earth/LIFE' (hereinafter referred to as LIFE; Secretariat: Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo; President: Keizo Yokoyama) is tackling poverty mainly in the agricultural sector on Sumba Island, Indonesia, a remote island left behind by the country's development. We are pleased to announce that LIFE will be celebrating its 40th anniversary. To mark this memorable milestone, we will hold the 'LIFE 40th Anniversary Event' to deepen our thoughts on 'international cooperation' with everyone. In appreciation of the long-standing support we have received, LIFE aims for further growth together with the people in our supported regions. History of LIFE 1986 Started activities as the Tokyo office of the Asian Association of Asian Friends 1990 Started well-digging work camps in India 1992 Started tree-planting work camps in Indonesia 1997 Started India study tours 1998 Reorganized as Walk with the Earth/LIFE 1999 Acquired corporate status as a specified non-profit organization 2000 Started Indonesia study tours 2021 Acquired certification from the Tokyo Metropolitan Government The certified NPO Walk with the Earth/LIFE was established in 1986 and has been addressing poverty and environmental conservation in rural areas of India and Indonesia. While some people's living standards have improved through our support activities thus far, our project areas are vast, and many people have yet to receive support. We believe that our ability to build relationships of trust with the local people is the result of continuing our projects with the support of many Japanese people. We will continue to cherish this bond between Japan and the supported regions, maintaining our international cooperation in areas left behind by development. Mangrove Planting Japanese people and children of Sumba Island plant trees and pick up trash on the beach together. International Exchange at High Schools Every year, we visit Waingapu Third High School to continue international exchange through games and other activities. Pump Development We are developing a pump that draws water utilizing the flow of the river so that it can be used in areas where access to water is difficult. Organic Farming Support We hold training sessions where villagers who have never grown vegetables can learn how to cultivate them. Notice of the 40th Anniversary Event To commemorate this 40th anniversary, we will hold the [LIFE 40th Anniversary Event] The Past and Future of International Cooperation. In this event, we will think about international cooperation together with the attendees. We sincerely look forward to your participation. Date: Saturday, May 30, 2026 Venue: 1st floor Community Exchange Space, Social Welfare Corporation Mishinokai, Elderly Welfare Facility 'Kagurazaka' Schedule: 1:00 PM: Doors open 1:30 PM: Event starts First half: Panel talk Break Second half: Group work and presentation Reception desk: Ticket sales site 'Peatix' Details and Application Please see here for detailed information. Overview of the 40th Anniversary Event 'What exactly do you do in international cooperation?' The first half will be a panel talk featuring past case studies implemented on Java Island, Indonesia. In the second half, group work will be conducted, where each group will consider what and how we should develop our international cooperation efforts moving forward, using what they heard in the panel talk as a hint. Participants will deepen their thoughts on international cooperation with each other while enjoying Indonesian snacks. Image of Indonesian snacks Mr. Masataka Uo, Representative Director of the Japan Fundraising Association Profile: Participated in an India work camp hosted by the Tokyo office of the Asian Association of Asian Friends, LIFE's predecessor, as a senior in college in 1991, and later served as a founding board member of LIFE. After working for JICA (Japan International Cooperation Agency), the JICA Indonesia Office, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, he left to establish the Japan Fundraising Association in 2009. Currently, he also serves as Vice President and Director of the Impact Economy Center at Shizenkan University, and Editor-in-Chief of Stanford Social Innovation Review Japan. His hobby is teaching karate to local parents and children at a community-run karate dojo on weekends. Future Outlook The certified NPO Walk with the Earth/LIFE will continue its international cooperation with the support of the Japanese people, standing closely by those left behind by development. We ask for your continued support until the day comes when they no longer need assistance. First, please join us at the 40th anniversary event and experience international cooperation. Notice of Crowdfunding Children of a village receiving agricultural support We are currently running a crowdfunding campaign (until June 9, 2026) to raise funds for activities on Sumba Island, Indonesia. Sumba Island has difficult access to water, and residents have to go draw water multiple times a day.