6th World Youth Uchinaanchu Festival

Participants from 6 countries expected to attend global gathering

The Uchinaanchu (Okinawan) youth across the globe have come together once again to put on the 6^th World Youth Uchinaanchu Festival (Wakamono Taikai). Made by and for young people of Okinawan descent, this event is set to take place February 6 - 10, 2018 in Lima, Peru. This offers a unique opportunity to participate in activities that will explore cultural identity, teach about the history and current issues of Okinawa, and help to build global networks and friendships.

Collin Hoo, a fourth generation Okinawan in Hawaii, participated in the 2^nd and 4^th festivals held in the U.S. and the Philippines. “To be able to meet people from halfway around the world and talk to them about what it’s like growing up in their countries as Okinawan – it was a very perspective changing experience for me.”

This is a rare and special chance for Uchinaanchu youth to unite together in shaping the future by creating and implementing different projects that will help preserve and promote the culture of Okinawa. The festival also provides an opportunity to grow in leadership, bond with fellow young Okinawans, find a community back home, and have an experience of a lifetime.

The festivities include international performances, a sports competition, a youth symposium, and the study of native Ryūkyūan languages. The 2018 festival will also have a focus on Okinawan immigrants in Peru, featuring study tours, a Peruvian cooking class, and participation in Peru’s Annual Okinawan Festival.

“There’s so much potential to create an even stronger global Uchinaanchu network by working and connecting with Okinawans in South America, across the U.S., throughout Asia, and even Europe,” Hoo continues. “In turn, we can help to make the future for Okinawa, our homeland, a lot brighter.”

The registration fee of $350 includes lodging, transportation for all festival-related activities, and meals on the main festival days. The fee does NOT include round-trip airfare, overseas travel insurance, transaction and application fees related to registration requirements, and personal expenses. The deadline is October 30.

Click here for the online registration form and requirements. Participants must be between the ages of 18 – 35, in sound health, and take full responsibility of overseas travel. English-speaking staff is available to answer any questions: wyuf-entry-o@wyua.okinawa

It is really encouraged that young Okinawans attend this event. It is important that the Uchinaanchu story stays alive and is passed on for generations to come!