Kristen Taniguchi
Currently, I find myself engaged in the rigorous program at Red River College, where I am honing my skills and knowledge in the field of Sonography. Each day presents new opportunities for growth, and I enjoy each challenge set in front of me. Outside the realm of academia, I enjoy cultivating meaningful connections with those around me and making new connections. These moments provide a welcome balance to the demands of my studies. I believe in maintaining a healthy body and mind, and I enjoy regular visits to the gym to help me clear my mind and recharge before tackling a long study night. In addition to this, I find immense fulfillment and joy in the exhilarating sport of roller derby. As a passionate player, I thrive in the fast-paced intensity of the game, where you are challenged with teamwork, strategy and athleticism that create an experience unlike any other. Whether I am blocking opponents or scoring points, roller derby challenges me both physically and mentally. As I navigate life, I am grateful for the opportunities that each day brings and remain steadfast in my pursuit of growth, fulfillment and joy.
Hanako Teranishi
Hanako Teranishi (They/Them) is a queer Yonsei mixed Japanese Canadian. They are a fourth-year English Honours student at the University of Manitoba. They are interested in learning and writing about racial and queer identities alongside anti-capitalist and Queer theory. They work as a Writing Tutor and pursue both academic and creative writing projects. In their spare time, Hanako loves catching up on their to-read list, organizing with social justice groups, rock climbing, and attending local concerts! Hanako's engagement with writing seeks to create pockets of belonging, intimacy, and love by filling in the gaps they see within academia and literature. Currently, they are a member of the National Association of Japanese Canadian’s Young Leaders Committee and has recently taken up traditional Japanese Odori (Dance).
Haulu Beyette - Youth Ambassador
Haulu is fifteen years old and a sophomore at Collège Sturgeon Heights Collegiate where he is enrolled in French Immersion. He is a competitive basketball player and will be on the Sturgeon Heights varsity team next year. He is often seen at the YMCA practicing basketball, working out, and training to be a lifeguard. Haulu was born and raised in Fukuoka, Japan until the age of five and then moved to Winnipeg. He speaks English, French, and Japanese. Last year, Haulu stayed in Japan the entire summer and is eager to be a part of Folklorama 2024 events, activities and the Japanese Pavilion.
Luca Kennedy - Youth Ambassador
My name is Luca Kennedy and I am in the 11th grade at Collège Miles Macdonell Collegiate. I grew up in Japan until I was 4 and moved to Canada where I have lived for the last 12 years. I took Japanese language lessons at JCAM for 5 years. I’ve volunteered at the Japanese Pavilion and performed with Hinode Taiko. I enjoy playing school volleyball and badminton, hanging out with friends, making videos, playing music and working at a restaurant. I am very excited to take on the role of ambassador at the Japanese Pavilion this year.
Daniel Akira Cowen - Greeter
Hello! My name is Daniel Cowen and I am 23 years old. I live in Winnipeg with my parents, Cathy and Steve, and my sister Stephanie.
I attend a day program, Options, Pathways and Transitions, where I have many friends. We work on academic subjects such as literacy and numeracy and enjoy social activities such as bowling, art and gym. I also have one afternoon of supported work experience. I recently took up taiko drumming at JCAM and I love it! I take swimming lessons, volunteer at Children’s Rehabilitation Centre, and am on two Special Olympics teams, 5 pin bowling and basketball.
My family have been members of JCAM for many years and last year I was the Greeter for our Japanese Pavilion. I loved meeting people and welcoming them to the pavilion. My favourite part was dancing at the end of each show. I look forward to taking on this role again!