Lin Kobayashi Joins US-Japan Foundation Board for Impact

Lin Kobayashi's New Role with the US-Japan Foundation

Renowned social entrepreneur Lin Kobayashi will soon join the United States-Japan Foundation Board of Trustees, bringing with her a wealth of experience and creativity that aims to strengthen the organization's impact. Her official start date is in January, a move eagerly anticipated by many within the foundation.

Background and Achievements of Lin Kobayashi

Kobayashi earned recognition as the co-founder of ISAK, which is now known as UWC ISAK Japan, following its incorporation into the global United World Colleges movement in 2017. This residential high school, established in 2014, currently hosts about 200 international students, representing over 80 countries, with a significant majority benefiting from financial aid. The school's programs have positively impacted over 1,500 students, allowing them to explore educational opportunities that might otherwise be unavailable to them.

Connecting Japan's Social Impact Ecosystem

The Board Chair of USJF, Lawrence K. Fish, expressed excitement about Kobayashi's involvement, emphasizing how her creative energy will help deepen connections to Japan's social impact ecosystem. In response, Kobayashi expressed her gratitude for the opportunity and her desire to contribute meaningfully to the foundation's goals.

Kobayashi’s Educational Journey

Lin Kobayashi's passion for education ignited when she received a full scholarship from a leading Japanese business organization to attend a boarding high school in Canada. This life-altering experience led her to study development economics at the prestigious University of Tokyo and later to obtain a master’s degree in international education administration and policy analysis from Stanford University. Her career took a further turn when she joined UNICEF in the Philippines, where she created non-formal education programs aimed at marginalized children.

Commitment to Social Change

Kobayashi’s commitment to addressing societal disparities became even more pronounced as she witnessed the struggles of underprivileged communities. This inspired her to strive towards developing transformational leaders and fostering change agents who could impact society positively. After returning to Japan in 2008, she dedicated herself to the ISAK initiative, leveraging her foundational knowledge from her previous positions at Morgan Stanley Investment Banking Division and the Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC), which manages Japan's Official Development Assistance.

Recognitions and Contributions

Throughout her impressive career, Kobayashi has been recognized with numerous accolades. She was named a "Young Global Leader" by the World Economic Forum in 2012, awarded the title of "Change-maker of the Year" by Nikkei Business in 2013, and celebrated as "Woman of the Year" in 2015 by Nikkei Woman. Additionally, she was a distinguished Yale Greenberg World Fellow in 2017 and received the "Entrepreneur of The Year" award in Japan by Ernst & Young in 2019, as well as the "Bold Woman Award" in 2021 from Veuve Clicquot.

The Vision of UWC Movement

The United World Colleges movement, which began in the UK in 1962, strives to create an educational environment that unites individuals from diverse cultures and backgrounds, promoting peace and sustainability through learning. This mission aligns perfectly with the objectives of the United States-Japan Foundation.

The Role of the United States-Japan Foundation

Founded in 1980, the United States-Japan Foundation plays a vital role in enhancing relations between these two influential nations. With over $100 million allocated in grants since its inception, the foundation is committed to building a network of 500 fellows through the US-Japan Leadership Program, promoting mutual understanding and cooperation.

Joining the USJF Board

In her new role, Kobayashi will join a diverse group of dedicated individuals on the USJF board, including Chair Fish, Vice Chair Kohei Itoh, and several other prominent figures who are equally driven to foster impactful relationships between the United States and Japan.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Lin Kobayashi's background?

Lin Kobayashi is a Japanese social entrepreneur known for co-founding the International School of Asia Karuizawa, now UWC ISAK Japan.

What does the United States-Japan Foundation aim to achieve?

The foundation works to improve relations between the U.S. and Japan, facilitating cultural exchange and cooperation.

What achievements has Lin Kobayashi received?

Kobayashi has received numerous accolades, including Young Global Leader by the World Economic Forum and Entrepreneur of The Year by Ernst & Young.

When did ISAK become part of UWC?

ISAK became part of the United World Colleges movement in 2017 and was rebranded as UWC ISAK Japan.

How many students does UWC ISAK Japan serve?

The school serves around 200 students from over 80 countries, with a large portion receiving financial support.

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