The Working Committee
The Working Committee (WC) consists of eight dedicated ALTs along with the PAs. Together, we collaborate throughout the year to meticulously plan and execute both the Welcome Orientation and the Skills Development Conference. However, our responsibilities extend beyond these two events. If you’re intrigued by the idea of joining the WC in the future, be sure to watch out for upcoming applications. It’s an excellent opportunity to contribute to the ALT community in Nagasaki and gain valuable experience to showcase on your resume beyond your JET journey!
Now, let’s get acquainted with each member of the 2024 Working Committee:
Natasha
Hello! I’m Natasha, a 3rd year ALT from Miami, Florida in the U.S. I work at elementary and junior high schools in northern Sasebo. I adore everything art related, photography, and museums. In my town I practice calligraphy, pottery and kyudo. I enjoy going on road trips and visiting the lesser traveled areas of Japan (and very traveled areas too), and really all traveling! I love chatting about anything and everything, so never be shy to say hello!
Aaron
Hi there! I’m Aaron, a 3rd-year ALT in Shimabara, hailing from the west of Singapore- where my backyard had monkeys, and my jogging buddies were wild boars. I’m all about the great outdoors, but if I had to pick an animal to match my vibe, it’d be a sloth- because I can sleep just about anywhere, anytime. When I’m not snoozing, I’m diving into Japanese myths and banging on Taiko drums. I love meeting new people and swapping stories, so don’t be shy- say hi!
Fran
Hi everyone! I’m Fran, a second year ALT in Minamishimabara on the Shimabara hanto. I love spending time in nature, especially swimming and bushwalking. In my free time I’ve recently been studying Japanese sign language. If you’re ever on the Shimabara hanto and want to know what to do or where to go please get in touch!
Mira
Hey! I’m Mira, a third year ALT from the U.S. living in Isahaya. I work at two elementary schools and one middle school. I absolutely love nature and have been fortunate enough to be placed in the wonderful prefecture of Nagasaki. In my free time I generally play the guqin (a traditional Chinese instrument), read or hike. Recently I’ve been practicing Naginata, a Japanese martial art traditionally practiced by women. I’m super social and love talking so feel free to talk to me if you ever see me around!!
Jason
G’day! I`m Jason, a second year JET ALT from a land down under (Australia). I’m based in Sasebo and I primarily teach at two Junior High Schools whilst doing guest visits to several Elementary Schools multiple times a year. In my free time I can often be found playing music, studying at a cafe or outside hiking in the mountains. Feel free to say ‘Hi’ or ask me questions about JET or life in Japan.
Hanisi
Hello! My name is Hanisi and I’m from Canada. As a fourth-year JET ALT, I teach at three junior high schools in Sasebo and visit multiple elementary schools. I enjoy a good nature or urban hike and I’m a coffee and dessert fan! I’m also a Shodan or “first dan” practitioner of Japanese archery (Kyūdo) and I’ve been practicing it for over two years. I’m happy to help if you have any questions about life in Sasebo or if you’re interested in trying Kyūdo!
Ford
Howdy, I’m Ford a third year ALT in Higashisonogi. Since arriving, I’ve worked in both elementary schools and the junior high school of my bayside, 6,000 person tea town. I come from the similarly rural, but much colder North Dakota in the U.S. I’m a big fan of pretty much any video game, and driving my tiny, purple, kei car across Kyushu. Lately, you can catch me grinding out Japanese study at a cafe or wacking a taiko drum.
Kiran
Hello! My name is Kiran and I am from Iowa, USA! I am a fourth year ALT at one junior high school and two elementary schools, and I am also the Area Representative for Isahaya (for the third year in a row). I enjoy traveling domestically and internationally– I’ve been to 26 out of 47 prefectures with plans to go to more!
When I have time I enjoy going to karaoke, doing arts and crafts (ask me about my English board!), watching anime with the homies, and collecting stamps from shrines and temples called goshuin! Let’s all strive to make this year the best one yet!
