I participated in the “Snow Sports Festival”
I am not usually able to participant in KIS’s activities but I was able to participate this time in the Snow Sports Festival.

I was looking forward to meeting the JICA Participants and many KIS members. When I arrived at the grounds, there was a large Kamakura (igloo made out of snow) and many people standing around getting ready. I apologize that I was not able to help and just stood around looking but I was very excited about what kind of event this would turn into.

Everyone was divided into two teams, red and white, and the games began. While playing such games as name bingo, snowman contest (the snow would not stick together so it was extremely difficult), flag taking game, cheering competition and the snow ball game the bond between teams members increased and it turned into a heated competition.
It had been a long time since I had played in the snow. Seeing the participants along with the children all covered in snow left a lasting impression on me. At the end of the day, everyone drank warm Amazake (sweet rice wine) and had cup noodles while the heavens opened up with snow.

I was unable to talk to all of the participants but as I lived in Morocco for two years I was determined to talk to Mustapha from Morocco and said “Welcome” to him in Arabic. However I could not continue the conversation and ended up speaking to him in a mixture of French and a Moroccan dialect of Arabic. It was his birthday two days before the event so when Ms. Hosokawa brought along a birthday cake for him he looked very embarrassed but he was actually very happy.

On this day in Morocco there is a big festival (id ul-adha) and he was upset that he could not be there for it. However, being able to have such an enjoyable experience in another country was something that he will never forget. I also think that all the other participants had a great time and that it was a nice break for them from their everyday intense studies.
We all had a great time too. I am certain that all the other JICA Participants and Overseas Students that have come to Kosaka have been comforted with the support and help they get from KIS. This is due to the continuous efforts of Ms Hosokawa and many other people.

It turned out to be a great day. Thank you very much. I will definitely come back to Kosaka again.

(IKEUCHI Rukimko)