For SY2020-21, in response to the 2020 coronavirus pandemic, Globalize DC has introduced a new virtual Japanese language, culture, and career exposure program for DC teens as a substitute for our currently suspended in-person Japanese Plus program. The program is called JAPANESE TAMAGO. The word tamago means “egg” in Japanese, but we chose the word for its other meaning – “an expert in the making.”

The Japanese Tamago program focuses on Japanese language instruction, with some exposure to Japanese culture and many interesting people who have careers and personal lives connected to Japan. The program launched on Wednesday, October 21, and will meet online once a week for two hours  through May 2021. The program is free. Thirty (30) students have been accepted, to allow for significant interaction and practice speaking. Participants must be currently enrolled in a DCPS or DC charter high school. Globalize DC always seeks a diversity of participants, representing different schools, neighborhoods, and identities.

In March 2021, our Japanese Tamago students introduced the program’s new mascot, Tamawan. Special thanks to Key’Mari Thompson for creating this original artwork that reflects the values of the program.

Japanese Tamago has been made possible through a major grant from the Japan Foundation, Los Angeles. We are extremely grateful for their support during this difficult year.