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News > Manga contest unites American, Okinawan teens
 
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Two cultures, one art style
(Left to right) Kadena High School sophomore Amanda Anderson, Kana Tamamoto from Ginowan High School, Kie Oshiro from Shuri Higashi High School, and Chibana Yuria from Yomitan High School pose with their team's poster that won first place in a "Manga," or Japanese-style comics, contest sponsored by the American Consulate General Naha May 12. Students from Kadena and Kubasaki high schools and eight Okinawan schools participated in the contest that promoted friendship between American and Okinawan teens. (Courtesy photo by Aya Haemori.)
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Manga contest unites American, Okinawan teens

Posted 5/14/2012   Updated 5/14/2012 Email story   Print story

    


by Danielle Valentine
Kadena High School freshman


5/14/2012 - CAMP FOSTER, Japan  -- In an effort to promote friendship among American and Okinawan teens, students from Kadena and Kubasaki High Schools and eight local Okinawan schools participated in a Manga contest at Kubasaki High School May 12.

The contest sponsored by the American Consulate General Naha challenged each team to create a poster centered on the enduring friendship between Japan and America, and the 100th anniversary of Japan's donation of cherry blossoms to Washington, D.C.

"This was the fourth time we've participated, and it was the best turnout so far," explained Kadena High School art teacher, Barbara Keir. "It was great to see American students interacting with the Okinawans."

Inside Kubasaki's cafeteria, the students were divided into small groups with students from different schools together. Even though they spoke different languages, the students bonded and worked together. There was also a translator to help answer questions and clear up any confusion.

Near the end of the day, the groups presented their artwork and explained their pieces to their peers. All of the participants and facilitators voted for their favorites and the top three winners were awarded small prizes. 

Amanda Anderson, a Kadena High School sophomore on the first place team, said, "It was a really great experience that allowed me to meet Okinawan students and interact with them, while also creating artwork!"



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