BY Theodore Nze, COme on out japan returnee

How can I make a difference in the world?" It's a question that often keeps me awake at night. With so much happening globally, it's natural to wonder how one person can create positive change. This question weighed heavily on my mind when I first applied to join the Come On Out Programme in 2021.

Back then, COVID-19 was the primary concern worldwide, particularly in Japan. As the world grappled with the pandemic, the urgency of making a positive impact felt more pronounced. Initially, what drew me to Come On Out Japan was the chance to travel to Japan for free (let's be honest), especially after enduring multiple lockdowns. However, when the program announced that all teaching would be online, I felt a bit disappointed. Nonetheless, since I had no other summer plans and enjoyed teaching, I decided to give it a shot. Looking back, I'm so grateful I did.

My first impression of the program was the contagious excitement among everyone involved. Shifting online ensured that participants were genuinely passionate about teaching and forming global connections, rather than just seeking a free trip. I was also struck by the diverse talents and passions of my colleagues. For example, my teaching partner, Jessica, had transitioned from dentistry to pursuing her dreams in the music industry. Another team member was involved in designing technology to aid people with disabilities. Come On Out Japan had attracted a diverse range of talent, united by a love for teaching and Japan.

The program kicked off with onboarding and training sessions, where we had ample opportunity to ask questions and gather information. We were assured that our leaders would be available throughout the program for support. One rule that stood out to me was the requirement to speak solely in English to create an immersive environment. As a Japanese major, this presented an exciting challenge. Would we be able to effectively communicate? What if the students didn't understand my explanations? Only time would tell.

Initially nervous but giggly, the students, aged fourteen to seventeen, gradually opened up as we got to know each other. We learned not only their names and faces but also their passions, aspirations, and how learning English was helping them achieve their goals. Some aimed to become nurses, others scientists, while some simply desired to travel the world.

Returning to the original question, the Come On Out textbook, with its focus on the UN's Sustainable Development Goals, highlighted the concept of positive change. With the diverse interests and ambitions among the students, there was a palpable frustration at wanting to express their opinions but struggling to find the right words. This frustration, I believe, is one of the program's most significant aspects, as it underscores the benefits of learning a new language and the opportunities it unlocks.

As the program neared its end, it was heartening to witness the students' increased confidence in expressing themselves in English. It was also during this time that I revealed my proficiency in Japanese, which I think made them realise that despite being the foreigner they struggled to understand while speaking English, I too had complex thoughts and feelings that language could convey.

Come On Out Japan, with its curriculum, participants, and eager students, served as a guide on how to create visible positive change in the world. As cliché as it may sound, I genuinely felt that I learned as much from my students as they did from me. The program's emphasis on fostering global connections, promoting language learning, and empowering students to express themselves effectively contributes to creating a more interconnected and understanding world. I'm excited to return this year (in Japan this time — yay!) and continue striving to make a difference. Hope to see you there!