40th JET Programme Pre-Departure Orientation and Send-off Reception
2026/7/31
On July 31, the Consulate-General of Japan in Calgary hosted a pre-departure orientation and send-off reception for this year’s outgoing JET Programme participants at the official residence.
During the orientation, the travel agency explained the procedures for traveling to Japan. The JET Programme Coordinator then provided advice on living in Japan and emphasized the important role that JET Programme participants play as grassroots ambassadors for international friendship.
At the reception, Deputy Consul-General Matsuo delivered the opening remarks, followed by encouraging remarks from JETAASA Chair Tyson Nissen, JETAANA Chair Katherine Vos, and Lyndsay Smith, representing the outgoing JET cohort. Finally, Honorary Consul-General of Japan in Edmonton, Dr. Olenka Bilash, proposed a toast.
The JET participants departed for Japan on August 3, to begin their work as Assistant Language Teacher (ALTs), Coordinator for International Relations (CIRs), and a Sport Exchange Advisor (SEA).
During the orientation, the travel agency explained the procedures for traveling to Japan. The JET Programme Coordinator then provided advice on living in Japan and emphasized the important role that JET Programme participants play as grassroots ambassadors for international friendship.
At the reception, Deputy Consul-General Matsuo delivered the opening remarks, followed by encouraging remarks from JETAASA Chair Tyson Nissen, JETAANA Chair Katherine Vos, and Lyndsay Smith, representing the outgoing JET cohort. Finally, Honorary Consul-General of Japan in Edmonton, Dr. Olenka Bilash, proposed a toast.
The JET participants departed for Japan on August 3, to begin their work as Assistant Language Teacher (ALTs), Coordinator for International Relations (CIRs), and a Sport Exchange Advisor (SEA).
 |
 |
| The orientation in progress | Remarks by Deputy Consul-General Matsuo |
 |
 |
| Speech by Tyson Nissen, JETAASA Chair | Speech by Katherine Vos, JETAANA Chair |
 |
 |
| Speech by Lyndsay Smith, representing the outgoing JET cohort | Toast by Dr. Olenka Bilash, Honorary Consul General of Japan in Edmonton |
 |
 |
| This year’s departing JETs | Group Photo |