Kelly Fleck
Kelly Fleck is the editor of the Nikkei Voice, a Japanese-Canadian national newspaper. A recent graduate of Carleton University's journalism and communication program, she volunteered with the paper for years before taking on the job. Working at Nikkei Voice, Fleck has her finger on the pulse of Japanese Canadian culture and community.
Updated July 2018
Stories from This Author
Chef and Author Caroline Ishii Introduces Japan to Canadian Food with a Vegan Twist
May 14, 2019 • Kelly Fleck
While putting together her new cookbook, Canadian Vegan Recipes, chef and author Caroline Ishii had to figure out exactly what Canadian food is. The book, which is published completely in Japanese, aims to teach a Japanese audience about vegan cooking (using no animal byproducts) as well as Canadian culture and cuisine. In her initial discussions with her Japanese publisher, Kirasienne, Ishii says the editor-in-chief was interested in learning more about Canada. “We don’t know anything in Japan about Canada,” the …
Journey Sparked By A Photograph
Jan. 22, 2019 • Kelly Fleck
TORONTO — Stéphane Hamade, a fifth generation Japanese Canadian, spent seven days in the village of Mio, Wakayama, Japan, learning about the small fishing village his family came from. His trip was documented by Kyoto University of Foreign Studies students and made into a three part documentary series that was shown at Momiji Health Care Society on Aug. 4, followed by a panel discussion. Stéphane’s trip to Mio began with a photograph of his grandfather, Joseph “Joe” Isao Hamade on …
Runs In the Family: Alex Shimo and Leslie Shimotakahara, Authors and Cousins
July 17, 2018 • Kelly Fleck
Growing up, cousins Alexandra Shimo and Leslie Shimotakahara only saw each other once, at an aunt and uncle’s wedding when they were three and four-years-old. The result is an adorable photo of the two girls sitting on the floor in velvet party dresses and Mary Jane shoes. “I remember I was so delighted to discover there was another little girl in the family, because I am an only child, I didn’t have any cousins at the time,” says Leslie. “But then it turned out …