National Chair of JETAA Jaz Lau on Meeting the Emperor

As the national chair of the JETAA community, my usual duties are overseeing multiple local chapters to support alumni who have returned from their time in Japan, as well as continuing to maintain and grow the connection between the UK and Japan. It can be anything from applying for funding from the Japan Local Government Center, booking karaoke rooms, organising Japanese craft classes, a movie outing or the occasional speech to outgoing JET groups, and welcoming returners.

However, this year has been full of unusual global events - one of which has been a state visit from Japan to the UK! The Emperor and Empress embarked on a short tour of the UK, visiting the royal family, exploring Oxford (where His Majesty once studied) and other activities. I'd heard some rumour of the trip happening, but mostly thought about it as a cool news piece to mention to other alumni. 

However, once confirmed, I received a sudden flurry of emails asking me if I was free to attend a private audience! As a testament to the impact that the JET Programme has, I was invited to a small audience of 10 people for a private conversation with the Emperor. Thanks to the JET Programme, I was selected to stand with nine other esteemed individuals (such as Michael Rivera King, DPhil, FCMI, also an ex-JET, who runs The Japan Society) and speak with His Majesty one-on-one! 

We were asked to keep everything very confidential, so even my family and friends didn't know what was happening. When I arrived at the hotel which was hosting the event, I peered around cautiously, looking for embassy representatives and security. They were everywhere - I could tell this was a watertight situation. Even though I knew the people from the Japanese Embassy, they still did a thorough check on the ID I bought along with me.

We were ushered to a waiting room, where I met some of the lords and ladies that made up the rest of the audience. I was surrounded by politicians (both active and retired), landed gentry, and people who have contributed hugely to the relationship between Japan and the UK, whether through the arts, politics or other work. I felt very out of my depth, but was proud to be both the youngest representative there, one of three women, and the only non-caucasian - not to mention representing the JETAA community, which I'm truly proud to be a part of.  

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Just before the audience itself, we were taken to another smaller board room, with 10 chairs spaced apart. About 30 different media members were crowded in the background. An aide gave us precise instructions - everyone was to stand and bow. Then, the first three attendees would remain standing, whereas the rest of us were to sit down. Each individual would stand up as the Emperor approached us.

The Ambassador, Hayashi-san, gave a brief introduction to each person in Japanese, then the Emperor addressed us in English. I was the last in line, so I watched carefully as each person conversed with His Majesty - some using it as an opportunity to share the latest work they had achieved, others more curious to ask questions. Others talked of shared memories at Oxford, where the Emperor had studied.

Finally, I stood up sweatily as His Majesty approached, rehearsing a few talking points in my mind. I did my best to represent our fantastically varied organisation and highlight the work that our amazing volunteers in the committee do, but there's no way I could really fit that into three minutes. The Emperor was incredibly well-spoken and thanked me for making time to attend before we spoke a little about the role of JETAA in Japan-UK relations today. I did my best to represent our fantastically varied organisation and highlight the work that our amazing volunteers on the committee do, but there's no way I could really fit that into three minutes. And, just like that - it was over! We were released back into the public, where more news outlets eagerly awaited a recount of our experiences.

Fuji Television Network, Inc. asked to interview Mike and I, and we gladly shared a little on the surreal experience! The eagle-eyed among you might spot our third JETAA alum Ryan Keeble in there. Although not present at this particular event, Chris Broad, another notable JET alum, was also invited to join the gala, which was one of the celebrations during the state visit. 

The next day, myself and other ex-Chairs were also invited to a reception alongside a number of prominent Japanese businesspeople, community members and social clubs. His Majesty gave a speech and spoke with some people in the room. Being part of the JETAA committee gives you access and insight into a lot of interesting events and opportunities - later this year, we'll be supporting the Japan Matsuri at Trafalgar Square, speaking on panels during the Returnee Careers Fair, and a lot more. We're always looking for people to get involved, so if these unique events hold appeal, do reach out to us!