Dr. Akira Brian Yamashita and Ms. Melisa Miharu Kamibayashi-Staples for their outstanding contributions to the Japanese community in Ottawa.
This past Thursday, August 31st, a large group of community members were invited to the Ambassador and Mrs. Yamanouchi’s residence to witness the conferment ceremony of this prestigious award upon our beloved community leaders Brian and Melisa.
After kind and thoughtful words from the Ambassador, Brian and Melisa each gave wonderful speeches, sharing credit for their accomplishments with our community. These speeches were followed up by a wonderful tribute from former OJCA President Sachiko Okuda and a classy toast from Ron Shigeishi.