Japanese Women's Initiative in the Bay Area (JWIBA) is pleased to announce that Eri Suzuki Shino will assume the role of Co-President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), effective August 31, 2026.

Makiko Kawabe, Co-Founder and current Co-President and CEO, will step down from her position on the same date.

Since JWIBA began its activities in 2022, Makiko has led its primarily volunteer-driven initiatives, established the organizational foundation for JWIBA as a U.S. 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, and dedicated herself to building a community that connects the Bay Area, Japan, and beyond. We extend our heartfelt gratitude for her vision, leadership, and tremendous contributions over the past four years.

Moving forward, Eri Suzuki Shino, as the incoming Co-President and CEO, and Ryoko Hirano, who will continue serving as Co-President and Chief Operating Officer (COO), will lead JWIBA into its next stage. Together with our leadership team and community members, they will work to shape JWIBA's future and support its continued growth.

In addition, the following members will take on leadership roles, bringing their diverse experiences and strengths to the organization:

• Chief Financial Officer (CFO): Yuko Kamakura

• Chief Strategy Officer (CSO): Shoko Handa

• Chief Program Officer (CPO): Hanako Hotta

• Chief Research Officer (CRO): Yuri Nishikawa

• Secretary: Azusa Terasaki

While carrying forward the values and connections that JWIBA has cherished since its founding, our new leadership team will work together with the community to build the next chapter of JWIBA.

We look forward to your continued support as JWIBA enters this new chapter.