Okinawa, A different Japan Okinawa reveals a lesser-known side of Japan. Part of a vast archipelago of 160 islands, of which only 49 are inhabited, it exudes a distinctive atmosphere that is both gentle and powerful. Life moves at a slower pace here, guided by sunlight, the vastness of the ocean, and a landscape shaped…
Naoshima, Japan’s Enchanted Island The moment you step off the ferry, your gaze is drawn to a familiar silhouette: Yayoi Kusama’s iconic Pumpkin, which seems to welcome visitors as a gateway into the singular world of Naoshima, an island where art breaks free from the confines of walls and unfolds in a constantly evolving dialogue…
Noh Theatre, the Soul of Japan Attending a Noh theatre performance in Japan is an immersion into the very soul of the country. Born in the 14th century, Noh is one of the oldest theatrical traditions still performed today. Experiencing it in its place of origin, within the context of its traditions and venues, offers…
Introduction to Noh Theatre In a more intimate setting, it was in Nagoya that we had the privilege of taking part in an introduction to Noh theatre led by Professor Kunie Takatsu, who trained at the Ninna Nohgaku Gakusha. Away from the spotlight and the stage, on a hillside offering remarkable views, she welcomed us…
The Power of Say It Now in Humanitarian Work In the field of humanitarian work, the stakes are high. Nonprofits and NGOs work tirelessly to address some of the most pressing issues facing humanity—poverty, education, healthcare and environmental crises—often with limited resources and under immense pressure. Amid these challenges, the Say It Now movement, founded…
Former Vancouver Lawyer Katrina Sriranpong Discusses Child Labour Katrina Sriranpong is a former Vancouver lawyer specializing in immigration and refugee law. She resides with her family in Vancouver, B.C., where she devotes her time between activism and caring for her two young children. For more than 15 years, she has been an advocate for issues…
The Lebanese explosion that occurred last year, continues to arouse international emotion, including that of the Lebanese diaspora. Far from remaining motionless, the latter are assisting from a distance. A Lebanese in crisis The Lebanese population struggles to recover in a country plagued by multiple crises. Since October 2019, Lebanon has been facing an socioeconomic…
Safe Ground helps prisoners to become good fathers How can a prisoner be a good father? The question does not seem to have a positive answer. However, the Safe Ground association succeeds in making prisoners responsible. Counter-productive prisons Men in prison retain very little contact with their families. Reclusive in a male-only sanctuary, violence, and…
Comedy stand creates laughter during Coronavirus A young comedian finds a creative way to maintain social distancing while creating laughter. The British Columbian boy has made an effort to brighten his neighbor’s mood by telling jokes everyday from his driveway. Drive-by Comedy stand In an effort to bring joy to others, 6-year old Callaghan McLaughlin…
Strong women give hope Believing that physical strength is “a man’s thing” is widespread. However, what proves that a woman cannot surpass a man in the field of sport, or that she will be incompetent if she is working in a “man’s job”? Nothing. The opposite is even demonstrated by the swimmer Chloe McCardel and…