The 24nd Asian TRAINEE REPORT The Seeds of Joy that Began in Japan Byambasuren Bumchin Mongolia, 36 years old Hearing Impairment : Deaf Fields of interest 1.Activities by organization of persons with disabilities 2.Sign Language interpreters in Japan 3.Deaf education Stepping into the Land of the Rising Sun... On September 23, 2024 - the International Day of Sign Languages - I set foot in Japan for the very first time to join the 24th Duskin Leadership Training Program. This was not just a journey abroad, but the beginning of my deep commitment to seek solutions to the challenges faced by Deaf people in Mongolia, to grow personally, and to learn as much as I could. Coming to Japan, leaving my four young children behind in Mongolia was a decision filled with emotional weight and sacrifice. But my strong will to learn and to contribute more to others gave me the courage to take this step. From the moment I arrived, I was welcomed by Japan's refined culture, cleanliness, warm social interactions, and advanced technological lifestyles. I was also introduced to fellow trainees from Taiwan, Bangladesh, and Nepal - individuals with shared aspirations. The nine months of interaction during which we encouraged and learned from one another have become an invaluable asset to me. Language: The Gateway to Knowledge During the first month of my stay in Japan, I faced a language barrier. It was difficult not being able to express myself fully or understand others, which limited my efforts to study and communicate. However, thanks to the support of four Deaf instructors who taught me Japanese Sign Language (JSL), I was able to overcome this challenge in a short time. In Japan, I truly came to understand the phrase "language is the gateway to knowledge." Learning JSL and written Japanese became the foundation not only for communication but also for achieving the goals I had set when I arrived in Japan. Learning Japanese Sign Language has given me access to a wide range of information, including TV programs by sign language interpreters and videos created by Deaf people themselves. It has also deepened my understanding of Japanese culture, social issues, and the lives and rights of Deaf people. Ten Days Living with Japanese Deaf Families For ten days during the New Year holiday in 2025, I had the precious opportunity to visit and stay with Deaf families in Hiroshima and Nara. Through this experience, I came to understand and participate in the lifestyle, daily routines, and traditional customs of Japanese families. On January 1st, I visited the home of the parents of a Deaf host in Nara Prefecture. We celebrated the New Year together, enjoying a traditional holiday meal in a warm, joyful, and heartfelt atmosphere filled with laughter and good memories. I also visited historical sites in Hiroshima and Nara. Among them, Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park left a particularly strong impression on me. Learning about the damage caused by the atomic bomb and watching a video of a deaf atomic bomb survivor's testimony gave me a deeper appreciation for the importance of peace and the value of a world without war. What moved me the most was how two deaf families in Japan warmly welcomed me and kindly shared their daily lives and culture with me. I am filled with heartfelt gratitude. Individual Training That Deepened My Knowledge and Experience From February to mid-May 2025, I participated in individual training sessions at government agencies, private organizations, and educational institutions throughout Japan. These training sessions were a very important opportunity to deepen my knowledge and practical experience to bring back to Mongolia. I trained at the following organizations: 1.Japan ASL Association 2.The Graduate University for Advanced Studies, SOKENDAI 3.Tottori Association of the Deaf 4.Deaf Net. KAGOSHIMA 5.Hyogo Association of the Deaf 6.Tsukuba University of Technology 7.National Rehabilitation Center for Persons with Disabilities 8.Meisei Gakuen (School for the Deaf) Through these trainings, I not only achieved the goals I set at the beginning but also gained a wider range of new insights and knowledge than I had imagined. Although I cannot cover everything due to space limitations, I must emphasize that each experience contributed greatly to my professional development and future endeavors. I was able to deepen my understanding of how Japanese deaf organizations are run, their organizational structure and leadership style, how projects are implemented, and strategies to promote community participation. I also learned a wide range of topics, including interpreter training and examination systems, curriculum construction and teaching methods. I also learned about the Japanese deaf education system, teaching methods, teaching materials, and how teachers work. In addition, I met deaf experts who are active on the front lines and was inspired by their experiences and process of overcoming challenges. I was able to gain a deeper understanding of social welfare services, employment support for deaf people, trends in sign language research, and the current state of policies and projects in Japan. I did not simply accept what I saw and heard, but always asked myself, "How can I apply this when introducing it in Mongolia?" and "What can I learn from Japan's challenges and failures?" as I engaged in the training. Journeys Enriched with Experiences Japan is one of the most travel-friendly countries, and I realized this deeply after joining short trips with Deaf friends. So far, I have visited 16 of the 47 prefectures, experiencing the nature, historical sites, delicious local cuisine, culture and customs of each region. Meeting and interacting with so many people was an experience that opened my eyes to a new world. One particularly memorable experience was ski training in Niigata. I had tried skiing in Mongolia but wasn't good at it and felt unsure and fearful of trying again. But with the encouragement and support of my instructors, I not only learned how to ski but eventually managed to ski alone. This experience not only gave me a new set of skills but also boosted my confidence to overcome personal limitations. These trips were not just for sightseeing or fun; they became moments of self-discovery, heartfelt memories, and lasting life experiences. Sincere Gratitude Participating in this program and living in Japan despite for a short period of time has been an invaluable experience in my life and has made significant changes in both my personal growth and the development of my professional skills. First and foremost, I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to the Duskin Ainowa Foundation. Without their generous support and funding, this program would not have been possible. I am also deeply thankful to the JSRPD team for meticulously planning and organizing the program with such professionalism and care. Their attention to detail and encouragement were key to my successful learning journey. I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to the organizations and individuals who provided me with the opportunity for one-on-one training. The knowledge and experiences you shared have become a valuable foundation for my future work. I am also deeply thankful to the teachers who devotedly taught me Japanese and Japanese Sign Language. My sincere appreciation also goes to my Japanese friends who kindly guided me through their beautiful country, making my learning journey even more enriching. From all the experiences and people I encountered during this training, I learned deeply about the value of knowledge, the power of awareness, and human warmth. I promise to bring back what I have learned to Mongolia and use it to promote the education, rights, and social inclusion of deaf people. A Journey of Empowerment and Inclusion: My Duskin Leadership Program Experience in Japan Taslima Sultana Mitu Bangladesh, 29 years old Visual Impairment : Totally Blind Fields of interest 1.Assistive devices for persons with disabilities 2.Independent Living of persons with disabilities 3.Japanese culture I am Taslima Sultana Mitu from Bangladesh. As a visually impaired individual, I had the honor of participating in the Duskin Leadership Training Program in Japan, starting on September 24 last year. Over the course of ten months, this journey has transformed me both as a person and professionally, empowering me to dream bigger and act with a greater sense of purpose. At the beginning of the program, I studied Japanese language and Braille. Learning Japanese was quite a challenge, as I had no prior experience with the language. However, with the kind support of our language and Braille teachers and the dedicated staff of JSRPD, and with the encouragement from my fellow trainees, I gradually improved. Weekly report writing in Japanese helped strengthen my reading, writing, and speaking skills. I also took part in yoga classes, which helped me understand the importance of physical and mental well-being. During the winter holidays, I had an opportunity to stay with two wonderful host families. Their kindness and hospitality made me feel safe and truly welcomed. Through these homestays, I was able to explore Japanese culture in depth, visiting temples, wearing a kimono, tasting new foods, and seeing snow for the first time. Each experience was a new discovery, filled with warmth and joy. After the homestay, I joined fellow trainees in Niigata for ski training. It was my first time skiing, and though I was initially nervous, the instructors' guidance helped me overcome my fear. I felt proud to challenge myself and discover new strength within. During the group training segment, I learned about Japan's disability laws, welfare systems, and services. We visited various organizations and participated in sessions that taught us about universal design, accessibility, counseling, abuse prevention, and inclusive education. One of the most valuable lessons I took from this time was the importance of teamwork and the power of communication in bringing social change. My individual training allowed me to explore areas closely related to my interests. At universities and rehabilitation centers, I observed how visually impaired students are supported in education and employment. I spoke with blind professionals and learned about assistive technologies. I also experienced volunteer-based mobility training, which deepened my understanding of how independence is fostered. At NPO Minori, I engaged in activities such as coffee roasting, making Braille business cards, preparing tennis balls, and gardening, all in a cooperative environment where people with visual and intellectual disabilities worked with dignity. At NPO With, I took part in packaging tasks and played sports like tennis and table tennis. I was especially moved when they prepared Braille instructions for me, making me feel truly included. I also visited key institutions such as Nippon Lighthouse, Japan Braille Library (JBL), and ATDO. At Nippon Lighthouse, I learned about welfare policies, Braille production, and employment services. At JBL, I explored the history and offerings of Japan's largest library for persons with print disabilities. At ATDO, I was introduced to DAISY book production, which I hope to implement in Bangladesh to make books accessible to all. A powerful concept I gained from this training is the importance of empowering people with disabilities to make their own decisions and live independently. I saw how assistive devices, employment support, and inclusive communities contribute to this goal. At the UNI, I learned about mobility support and captioning services. At the Nippon Lighthouse Information Center, I saw how volunteer efforts support independence and inclusion. I also had an opportunity to introduce my own work in Bangladesh at organizations like "Shopno Bangladeshi Shikaku Shougaisha Shien Kyoukai (an association supporting visually impaired children of Bangladesh)" in Shiga and "Shapla Neer (citizens' committee in Japan for overseas support)" in Tokyo. The advice and encouragement I received from Japanese professionals inspired me deeply and gave me new ideas for my future activities. Outside of training, I enjoyed many cultural and recreational experiences visiting Hikone Castle, attending tea ceremonies, exploring museums, picking strawberries, and participating in music sessions and festivals. These moments taught me the importance of balancing work with joy and self-care. Throughout the program, I focused on three main goals: (1) to learn about services and daily life for/of people with disabilities in Japan, (2) to understand assistive devices for the visually impaired, and (3) to study Japanese language and culture. With the kind guidance and support I received from so many people, I have successfully achieved these goals. Looking ahead, I hope to establish an information center in Bangladesh that will include a rehabilitation unit, sports facilities, a music studio, and a café where visually impaired individuals can work and thrive together. I also aim to provide accessible books, Braille materials, and assistive devices to promote education, employment, and independence of people with disabilities. This journey in Japan has given me more than just knowledge; it has given me courage. I am committed to using these experiences to improve the lives of people with disabilities in my country. I will never give up until I achieve this dream. Finally, I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who made this journey possible. I am especially thankful to our dedicated teachers, the JSRPD staff, my two homestay families, and the organizations that warmly welcomed and supported me throughout. Your guidance and encouragement truly made a difference. Thank you for believing in me. The Journey of Growth Carved Through Challenges Ke Wei Duan Taiwan, 27 years old Physical Disability : Cerebral palsy Fields of interest 1.Management of DPO and NGO 2.Independent Living in the community and awareness-raising activities 3.Regional design 4.Social welfare system 5.Special needs education Introduction My name is Coco. I am from Taiwan. I have cerebral palsy. I work as a social worker at the New Vitality Independent Living Association in Taipei. About Taiwan Taiwan has systems for people with disabilities, but there are still many problems. Many people with disabilities cannot live alone and need their families' help. Students with disabilities can attend regular schools, but discrimination still exists. The gap between cities and rural areas is large, and rural areas have fewer barrier-free facilities. Therefore, there is still much work to be done in Taiwan. Starting Life in Japan with Both Anxiety and Excitement Before going to Japan, I was full of excitement and anxiety. I didn't know if I could live alone in a foreign country or what my future would look like. Although I felt unprepared, I departed for Japan. My biggest concern was the language barrier. I worried about whether I could understand English and Japanese, how to learn the language, and how to express my feelings. During the training and leisure period, I visited various places in Japan. While in Tokyo, I often challenged myself to explore alone and visited many tourist sites. Living in an unfamiliar town was a very important experience. Facing many unknown challenges by myself, I sometimes got lost but was able to find the right way by looking at maps and asking people for directions. These experiences helped me gain confidence and improve my adaptability. Walking Together and Never Giving Up-Overcoming Difficulties Studying Japanese was very difficult for the first three months. Because of my cerebral palsy, speaking was hard. However, my teachers helped me find study methods, and I learned various ways to express myself. Not only speaking but also writing was an important form of expression. Gradually, my Japanese improved. After returning to Taiwan, I want to continue studying Japanese, read more Japanese information, and interact with Japanese friends. During my homestay in Yamaguchi Prefecture, I experienced many aspects of Japanese culture. I wore a kimono and visited a shrine to pray. It was my first time using Japanese to communicate with my host family and we found ways to communicate together. Although I caught the flu during the New Year's, I overcame the difficulty with my host family and felt closer to them. The ski training was scary at first. To make the "impossible possible," a lot of preparation, design, and support are needed. Ski instructors conduct much research, improve equipment, deeply understand disabilities, and prepare behind the scenes to allow people with disabilities to ski freely and safely. At first, I couldn't control the movement well and failed many times. But in the end, I was able to control direction, maintain balance, and ski steadily on my own. I was truly happy and enjoyed the moment of success-it was an unforgettable experience! I traveled to various places with fellow trainees, sharing many experiences, which brought us closer together. Together, we worked hard, never gave up, and overcame difficulties. Growth Gained from Diverse Learning and Experiences The training included group and individual sessions. In the individual training, I visited various independent living centers and companies: YAH!DO Miyazaki, Independent Support Center Oita, Tsukuba Center for Independent Living Honyara, Independent Living Muchu Center, Partner, Mainstream Association, Movement, Center for Independent Living Realize, Center for Independent Living Aruru, Center for Independent Living Connect, and OMRON Taiyo Co., Ltd. From both group and individual training, there were eight important lessons: disability welfare systems, independent living, universal design, activities by young people with disabilities, disaster prevention, inclusive education, community exchange, and play. I learned about disability welfare systems - laws, systems, and history of the movement. Comparing such situations with Taiwan, I deepened my understanding. I felt that cooperation with communities leads to better support. At a parade I joined themed "A city where everyone can live comfortably," I experienced a spirit of cooperation. Both Japan and Taiwan truly hope for systems and societies where people with disabilities can live safely. Regarding independent living, I learned the meaning of "choose by yourself, decide by yourself, take responsibility yourself." I felt that self-directed support services like independent living programs, peer counseling, and assistance are very important. I also learned about examples of community life for people with severe disabilities, mental disorders, and intellectual disabilities. I learned that it is necessary to provide appropriate support according to the characteristics of the disability and the wishes of each individual. After returning to Taiwan, I want to improve independent living systems further. For universal design, I experienced designs and facilities that anyone can use easily in tourist spots, workplaces, and transportation. For example, place design, assistant support, and use of tools are important. We learned ways to enjoy hot springs more safely and comfortably with assistants and assistive devices. I also learned the difference between barrier-free design and universal design. I participated in barrier-free, reasonable accommodation, and hospitality training. It is very important for people in the shopping street to understand disabilities well. Considering diverse people allows people to use services more comfortably and participate in various activities. In Kansai, I thought it was wonderful that young people with disabilities could grow while engaging in activities with peers. Activities of disability organizations (DPOs) are very important as places for connection and learning. Supporting each other strengthens the ability to face difficulties. For disaster prevention, we experienced evacuation shelters and created individual evacuation plans. It is important to consider disaster prevention from the perspective of people with disabilities, and to always be connected to the local community, not just being prepared. In group training, I learned about study methods using DAISY materials. In individual training, I learned about community activities, theater, and special needs schools. I learned the concept and practice of inclusive education. Inclusive education is important, and crucial for students, teachers, and other people to interact equally, and understand and respond to people with disabilities. In group training, I learned about the CBR Matrix and Twin Track Approach, and finally understood what I had been struggling with for a long time. Using the CBR Matrix allows a deep understanding of the lives and issues of people with disabilities in the community and helps consider directions for action. Therefore, to advance plans, it is necessary to improve skills in facilitation, coordination, communication, and negotiation and keep practicing. I also want to learn more deeply about CBR and CBID. I participated in community exchange activities. Places where people with disabilities and community members can interact and help each other are very important. It is also important for people with disabilities to participate in society. Thanks to community exchange, more people have come to understand disabilities in daily life and have a broader understanding when interacting with people with disabilities. Regarding play, I had many new experiences and challenges and was able to check barrier-free conditions in different places. There were many unforgettable experiences. Summary During the training, I learned that "a place to belong," "companions," "aspirations," and "LEAD ON (passing on / moving forward)" are very important. In order to create a truly inclusive society in which everyone can participate, and we must work hard together with or without disabilities, help each other, and grow together. It is important that we continue to move forward to improve society in which everyone is equal and their dignity protected. My Dream: Beyond Barriers, Toward a Society Where Everyone Walks Together After returning home, I want to create inclusive spaces for everyone to participate. I want a society in which more people with disabilities can live in the community. I want to further improve Taiwan's disability welfare system. I will focus on advocacy activities and youth empowerment in disability organizations (DPOs). I will also interact with other independent living associations in Taiwan. Furthermore, I want to convey the ideas of universal design and inclusion to communities, schools, companies, and public institutions. Inner Change Before coming to Japan, I always thought, "I want to live, study, and work just like everyone else," and worked very hard. But through those efforts, I often felt mentally exhausted and pressured. I thought, "I must not fall behind" and "I must not be different from others." However, through the training in Japan, and through many learnings, presentations of my personal history, and dialogues with people with disabilities and supporters, I was able to reorganize my life. I realized my past experiences were not only painful but also important forces that helped me grow. I gradually came to feel that I had value, without having to prove my existence. I learned that when troubled, it is important to try various methods by myself and consult those around me. Anxiety and tension in my heart gradually calmed. Even when difficulties and challenges come, I feel I am developing the ability to stabilize my mind little by little. I want to continue walking at my own pace with a soft and stable feeling. The End of the Journey and a New Beginning During the training, I learned many new things and experienced various Japanese cultures. I came to know myself better. I became happier, kinder, and stronger than before. Hope emerged, and I gained the strength to move toward the future. I sincerely thank the Duskin Ainowa Foundation, the Japanese Society for Rehabilitation of Persons with Disabilities, Toyama Sunrise, my teachers, and the training center staff. I will never forget their kind teaching and warm support. I look forward to seeing everyone again. On Being a Good Leaderand Motivating Newcomers with Disabilities Laxmi Kunwar Nepal, 35 years old Physical Disability : Spinal Cord Injury Fields of interest 1.Independent Living 2.System design for disability 3.Awareness-raising activities and how to negotiate 4.Human resources development 5.How to write reports and project proposals This training was a big opportunity to change my life. Before the training, I already knew about the Duskin Leadership Training Program because I was working at the independent living center Lalitpur Nepal, with the 6th Duskin trainee, Mr. Krishna Gautam. Japanese Language I had tried to study Japanese language in Nepal, but there were no accessible classes. That is why I was not able to study Japanese. When I came to Japan, I started Japanese language classes at Toyama Sunrise. I was impressed because the teachers were very kind and taught us in a way that was very easy to understand. I also put my mind into working hard. I never got bored with the Japanese class, right to the end. My speaking and writing skills improved day by day. It was a big achievement for me. Japanese language will also be useful in Nepal because I am working at the independent living center Lalitpur, Nepal, which is being supported by Japan. Homestay I stayed in Nagoya for roughly ten days for a homestay program. My host Ayumi-san was a very helpful person, she already knew about my disability well, and that was why she already had things important for me ready, such as a catheter and a rubber sheet, which I use daily. She always took care of me like a sister. We celebrated the New Year at her house, and I enjoyed feeling like they were my own family. Every day I went to meet her Japanese friends and visited different places with her by accessible car. I spent a memorable time experiencing Japanese culture and Japanese food. Experience In Nepal, we do not have a sea, but I like the sea and swimming in the sea. That is why I requested the staffs in the center that I wanted to swim in the ocean. However, everybody kindly said to me, "It is very cold now, so not a good idea". Finally, I went to the sea, in Kobe, with the members of Mainstream Association and swam. Swimming in the sea is very different from swimming in a pool. Group training During the group training, I learned the development of disability related laws and policies in Japan, Inclusive education, abuse prevention, facilitation and reflection, transition of movement for/by persons with disabilities in Japan and its characteristics, and social welfare services. I will need to work in a team and ensure regular negotiation to change our society, policy, and laws. Individual Training During my individual training, I went to various independent living centers in Japan. For example, CIL (Center of Independent Living) Iruka in Okinawa, CIL Kirara, CIL Oita, AJU The House for Independence, CIL Hikari in Kagoshima, Mainstream Association, Independent Living Muchu center, and CIL Partner. I got to know about the concept of independent living and the lives of people with disabilities in Japan. I was also surprised to see the lifestyle of people with severe disabilities using technology and PA services. I also learned about the history of independent living and how to do activities, such as barrier-free campaigns, PA support systems in Japan for persons with disabilities, independent living programs, peer support, peer counseling, etc. I think peer counseling and peer support are very important for empowering people with disabilities. Self-acceptance is also very important for people with disabilities before they engage themselves in activities to change society. "Making choices and decisions by oneself and taking responsibility for the choice and decisions, one has made," is the most important concept in the independent living movement. However, in most developing countries around the world, it is still believed that people with disabilities have to live with their families even as adults. Usually in these countries, there is no barrier-free infrastructure, no helper system, no government pension. Despite all this, I believe that in the future, people with disabilities in Nepal will also be able to live independently. OMRON Taiyo Co., Ltd I visited OMRON Taiyo Co., Ltd. It is a big company. I saw their working system in Japan. There are a lot of people with disabilities working together with people without disabilities. If people with disabilities have access to barrier-free infrastructure and technology, they will also be able to do everything. Conclusion In my country, there are so many issues surrounding people with disabilities. They include presence of so many barriers, and people not knowing anything about independent living. There is no barrier-free environment and infrastructure, and that is why so many people with disabilities have few job opportunities and education. In particular, people with severe disabilities only stay at home. However, I would like to solve this problem step by step. It is difficult to work on these issues alone, so first, I would like to bring some peers together and also consult with my seniors. I would like to tell many people about the things that I learned in Japan. I will work with other disability organizations and work together to receive disability services by the government. In particular, I want to work on inclusive education in Nepal and PA support system for persons with severe disabilities. Nothing is impossible if we work together for change little by little. Thanks. I would like to express my thanks to everyone, including my teachers, host family, the members of the centers I visited during my individual training, the Duskin AINOWA Foundation and the JSRPD team. Your work is wonderful. You have helped people with disabilities from various countries of Asia, teaching them many important things in Japan. I will be committed to working hard for people with disabilities after I go back to my country.