The student-led organization "LAONIN," known for its international social contribution activities, is actively expanding its community-based initiatives throughout November.

Creating New Community Ties Through Café Takeover

On Sunday, November 2, LAONIN hosted a café takeover event at “Machimachi Café,” a renovated traditional Japanese house in Ujitawara. In this stylish space, the members themselves challenged café management. This initiative, made possible through connections formed during a July event, also featured collaboration with the local bakery “cotori,” offering chiffon cakes and scones for sale.

In addition to running the café, the students held an information session about their school for local junior high students. Many community members visited the café, making it a valuable opportunity to introduce LAONIN’s activities more broadly in the area.

Broadening Perspectives Through University Group Exchanges

On Sunday, November 9, LAONIN participated in a charity event hosted by “Kansai SIVIO,” an organization supporting education in Laos, which also includes graduates of our school. Through interactions with this and other student groups tackling a variety of social issues, the members gained valuable learning and inspiration.

Next Up: Booth at the Private School Festival!

LAONIN’s next event will be a booth at the Private School Festival on Monday, November 24 (national holiday). The festival will take place at the Maruyama Park Outdoor Music Hall in Kyoto, where our school’s Middle & High School Baton Club and Brass Band are also scheduled to perform. We warmly invite you to stop by the LAONIN booth while enjoying the event.

About LAONIN

LAONIN was established in 2016 by students of Ritsumeikan Uji Junior and Senior High School with the goal of supporting schools in Laos. Currently, the group has about 60 members across junior and senior high school. Through the fair trade import and sale of coffee beans from Laos under their original brand, they continue to support local education in the region.

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