Last July 18th to the 24th of 2006, four representatives from the Youth Division namely: Hazel Andaya, Janit Fermin, Merchor Sandrino and Lawrence Sy participated in the 2006 SGI World Youth Training Course in Tokyo, Japan. A total of 250 youth representatives from 60 countries and territories attended the seven day training course.


The 62nd Headquarters Leaders Meeting

On July 20, they attended the 62nd Headquarter Leaders Meeting at the Makiguchi Memorial Hall in conjunction with the 55th Anniversary of the establishment of the Youth Division, the Ever Victorious Kansai General Meeting and the 50th Anniversary of the Fuji Kotekitai from Kansai. At this unforgettable day, they were able to receive valuable guidance from their Mentor in life, Ikeda sensei who was in high spirits and in good health.

Prior to the meeting, there were magnificent performances by the Soka Gloria Wind Orchestra together with YMD Chorale who sang newly composed Gakkai songs and the Fuji Kotekitai also performed in the meeting.

During the meeting, Mrs. Kaneko Ikeda conferred a “crown of bouquet” to Hazel Andaya, SGI Philippines YWD Vice Chief as a representative of various kotekitai groups. Also, they witnessed the conferment of “Award of Merit” to Ikeda sensei and Mrs. Ikeda presented by an association of 5, 562 cities and municipalities of Brazil. The award was presented by Mr. Garcia, as head of the Association with his wife. The ceremony engraved a memorable golden experience to our four youth Division members.


Warm Welcome from Tochigi Members

Also, during the Training Course representatives from various countries participated in exchange meetings conducted in different prefectures. Our Youth Division members were assigned to Tochigi Prefecture and were warmly welcomed by the local members and leaders.

In the exchange meeting, Melchor Sandrino shared his wonderful experience that touched the hearts of the members present in the meeting. Our members also sang the “Sun of Hope.” Souvenirs and gifts were also exchanged representing the offering of trust and friendship between our representatives and the local members and leaders.

Our members learned that Tochigi was utilized by Second President, Josei Toda as his starting point for kosen-rufu and urged the members in Tochigi to continue this legacy.


“Many in Body, One in Mind”
In another meeting, our YWD Vice Chief, Hazel Andaya and YMD Chapter Chief, Melchor Sandrino were both awarded with the “Golden Pin” for their sincere efforts to promote Philippine kosen-rufu.

In conclusion, our members were so impressed that they vowed and renewed their determination to fulfill their own individual mission together with their mentor in life, Ikeda sensei.

For all the 250 participants from all over the world, it was where; “overseas disciples gathered with their comrades in faith to meet with their mentor, along the spirit of “many in body, one in mind” to fight forever for worldwide kosen-rufu.”

This historical encounter shall be forever engraved in their hearts. As it is the “Convention of Lions,” so it is “A Solemn Pledge to Fulfill.”