Kenyans in Japan Association (KIJA) is proud to highlight the inspiring work of Steicy Gicharu, a Kenyan community member, based in Mie Prefecture, whose efforts to promote cultural understanding have recently received national recognition in Japan.

Steicy was featured in a Japanese high school media project that was part of a national contest centered on the theme of multicultural coexistence. After being referred by the local city hall, a high school in her area approached her as a community member whose life and activities reflect the realities and contributions of foreigners living in Japan.

Over a period of three months, students documented aspects of Steicy’s life as their project. The documentary highlighted her journey as a mother raising her children in Japan while actively contributing to the local community through cultural exchange and engagement.

The project showcased several of her initiatives, including visiting nearby schools to introduce students to Kenyan culture, sharing Kenyan cuisine with Japanese communities, and using her talent in music and singing to connect people across cultures. Through these activities, Steicy has been able to present a more authentic and positive perspective of Kenya to Japanese audiences – challenging the stereotypes that are sometimes portrayed.

The students’ documentary project went on to win top honors at the national level, bringing significant recognition to both the project and the message it carried.

For Steicy, this recognition is deeply meaningful. Her work has always been driven by a desire to help Japanese communities understand Kenya beyond the common narratives of poverty and hardship. By sharing stories, culture, and lived experiences, she hopes to present Kenya as a country rich in culture, talent, and opportunity.

Her efforts are already having a visible impact. In the past four months alone, her cultural outreach has contributed to increased curiosity about Kenya, with several schools incorporating Kenya-related topics into their studies and many Japanese community members developing a deeper appreciation for Kenyan culture and expressing desire about visiting the country.

Steicy’s story is a powerful example of how members of the Kenyan diaspora continue to serve as cultural ambassadors, building bridges between Kenya and Japan through everyday interactions and community engagement. This recognition is not only a personal achievement for her, but also a proud moment for the Kenyan community in Japan. Her story is a reminder that everyday actions (sharing culture, educating young people, and building relationships) can create powerful bridges between nations.

KIJA congratulates Steicy on this well-deserved recognition and celebrates her continued contribution to strengthening cultural understanding between our two societies.