The stage was set, the rehearsals were completed, and everyone was in their place. Thus began the 34th Annual Chubu Walkathon Disbursement Ceremony held in early November and hosted by the Grade 10 Japanese Language and Literature (JLL) students.
Each year, these students research the non-profits who have been selected as recipients of the Walkathon's proceeds, crafting and delivering speeches to introduce the charity representatives at the ceremony. Acting as emcees, they oversee the event from start to finish, including welcoming attendees, introducing key speakers from the ACCJ and NIS, and announcing the allocated funds for each organization. The experience not only hones their public speaking skills but also immerses them in formal Japanese language usage, which is essential for ceremonial settings. Moreover, the students gain a profound understanding of the meaningful work done by these local charities, fostering a sense of connection and social responsibility.
This year’s event was a testament to how this tradition brings the mission and values of NIS to life: Inspire, Inquire, Impact, and Include. By participating in this process, the students experience the importance of community engagement while making a tangible contribution to the wider Nagoya community.
A Legacy of Collaboration: The ACCJ-NIS Walkathon
The disbursement ceremony is part of the long-standing tradition of the ACCJ-NIS Chubu Walkathon, now celebrating 34 years of service to the community. As one of the largest and most enduring charity events in the region, the Walkathon has raised funds for a diverse array of causes, including child welfare, healthcare, and support for the elderly and disabled.
NIS’s involvement with the Walkathon began in its earliest years. By the second year, the school became a key organizing partner, and by the fifth year, the beloved tradition of a student-designed Walkathon T-shirt was introduced. This annual contest invites students to contribute their creativity to the event’s branding, symbolizing their active involvement and pride in the school’s commitment to the cause.
In recent years, the Grade 10 JLL students’ leadership of the disbursement ceremony has brought an educational component full circle, allowing students to reflect on the event’s impact while developing skills in research, formal communication, and public speaking.
Recommitting - the Walkathon Post-Pandemic
Following three years of scaled-down events due to the COVID-19 pandemic, NIS fully recommitted to the Walkathon in 2023 by designating it a school-wide community day. This decision transformed Walkathon Sunday into a learning opportunity for all students, with every grade level contributing to the event’s success.
Students play an integral role in organizing activities, coordinating the central charity walk, managing stage performances, and engaging in various fundraising efforts. This holistic participation reinforces the school’s philosophy of fostering collaboration, service, and leadership.
The Walkathon also provides students with connections to local charities, many of which become valuable partners for their IB CAS (Creativity, Activity, Service) projects. Through these experiences, NIS students gain firsthand insight into the importance of service and the ways in which individuals can positively impact their communities.
A Tradition of Giving Back
The ACCJ-NIS Chubu Walkathon exemplifies the power of collaboration between an international school and a local community. For over three decades, this event has brought together families, educators, and business leaders to support vital causes. With its unique blend of community service, educational value, and cultural exchange, the Walkathon has become a cornerstone of NIS’s mission to inspire compassionate, globally-minded leaders.
As the Grade 10 students demonstrated at this year’s disbursement ceremony, the Walkathon’s legacy continues to thrive, empowering the next generation to make a meaningful impact—locally and beyond.
