JII/OFP Open and authentic exchanges at a life-size level. Expand your own world (Otonari-san Volunteer Experience)

Please tell us how you learned about the Otonari-san Family Friend Program (OFP).

As I look towards my second life, I have a desire to start volunteer activities that allow me to engage in my interests and passions outside of work. I was particularly interested in interacting with and supporting foreigners, as well as helping children. While searching online, I came across OFP and thought it looked like a great opportunity, so I decided to apply.

What was your impression when you first spoke one-on-one with your partner?

At first, I was a bit nervous, but my partner was very sociable, had a wealth of topics to discuss, and was full of intellectual curiosity, so our conversation took off right from the start. We talked about Japanese food and their hobby of traveling, sharing stories about places we had both visited.

However, I was a bit worried about whether I could communicate properly in English. I can generally understand everyday conversations and manage to convey what I want to say, but when it comes to discussions about work, politics, or culture, there are times when I struggle to understand.

How did you interact?

We combined online and offline interactions. Initially, I wanted to connect about once a week, but both my partner and I had busy work schedules. So, I decided to adapt to my partner's availability. When we first spoke online, I asked when would be a good time for our second meeting, and they said, "In two weeks." This made me realize we should take it easy with our interactions. We continued our online exchanges, and it wasn't until about two months after we started pairing that we finally met in person. When we met face-to-face, we exchanged LINE contacts, which made it easy for us to send messages to each other afterward.

Since I lived far from my partner, I thought it would be better for them to have friends near the closest station, so I introduced two acquaintances who are good at English and live nearby. I felt it would be beneficial for my partner to expand their network, and there were times when my own English skills weren't enough, so I also sought help from others while engaging in conversations. The two people I introduced were much better at understanding and speaking English than I am, which gave me a great sense of reassurance. It was also nice that my partner and the two acquaintances hit it off well.

The exchanges may not have been very frequent, but the work and interests of my partner were quite similar to what I am doing, so this pairing-up was very beneficial.
I believe one of the key points for the success of this pairing-up was how easy it was to introduce people who seemed to share interests and connections with each other.

Was there anything that particularly impressed you or made you happy?

I still remember the first time we met very clearly. We had both wanted to meet in person for a long time, so it felt like we finally got to see each other. Since we decided to meet near the nearest station to our pair, two acquaintances of mine who live nearby also came along.

Since we talked about being open to all religions, we explored the area by visiting temples and churches, and we had lunch together. On our way back, my companion invited me to their home for chai tea, and their husband served us authentic chai made from spices. I still remember that it was a very fulfilling day for both of us.

After that, I was able to enjoy wonderful times, having meals with acquaintances and being invited to home parties at my partner's place.

Did you experience any changes in your relationships during the 6-month program?

In the beginning, I wasn't confident that I understood her because I didn't feel that I fully grasped English.
However, through our ongoing email exchanges and face-to-face conversations, I gradually learned about her past experiences and future aspirations, which deepened my respect and fondness for her.

Have you ever felt confused or troubled during this period?

I consulted with acquaintances I introduced to her and sought their opinions, so it wasn't too troubling. I didn't want it to be a one-sided support, and I thought it would be helpful to hear other people's perspectives as well.

I think it's great that we can consult during the monthly chat sessions hosted by JII. I also appreciated the regular surveys. They serve as a good reflection point and remind me that I haven't been in touch as much, prompting me to reach out. I'm really grateful for that.

What do you think about the duration of six months?

I think six months is just right. Three months feels a bit short, and one year seems a bit long. After the six months, you'll still have the freedom to connect, so it feels like the perfect duration.

Now that it's over, how do you feel about your partner?

It was truly inspiring to experience the wonderful hospitality and intellectual curiosity of my partner. I hope we can continue to maintain a close and lasting friendship in the future.

I hope to help her develop a love for Japan and make her experience living here enjoyable. I want to create opportunities for her to connect with others and provide guidance, such as suggesting places to go when she's in trouble or recommending people to consult.

Do you have a message for those who are thinking about joining OFP?

I understand that there may be some anxiety until the first pair is formed, but I think it's important to get to know each other well. By being curious and enjoying the interaction, we can create a positive experience. To learn about the other person, it's essential for us to openly share about ourselves first.
Additionally, it's perfectly fine to consult with a coordinator instead of handling everything on your own, or to connect with friends and acquaintances to gather their opinions.

Finally, please share your thoughts and feedback on the OFP.

I feel that this program is excellent because it allows me to meet people I wouldn't have encountered otherwise, broadening my horizons. There are various volunteer activities in the world, but I believe this program offers support and interaction that is realistic and fits well with one's own capabilities. I hope many more people can participate.

I think it would be even better if there were events, both online and in-person, where everyone can truly experience how enjoyable it is to engage with various cultures and people.