Photo by JUN NAGATA / Rafu Shimpo
2024 Nisei Week Court and Pioneer Spirit Honorees, Consul General Kenko Sone and wife Mami Sone (center).

The Nisei Week Foundation is excited to recognize the 2025 Pioneer Spirit Award honorees, who will be honored at a luncheon on Wednesday, Aug. 13, at the Japanese American Cultural and Community Center’s Toshizo Watanabe Culinary Cultural Center (Garden Level), 244 S. San Pedro St., Little Tokyo.

Doors open at 10:30 a.m. Program will take place from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Every year the Nisei Week Pioneer Spirit Award recognizes individuals who have dedicated years to uplifting the Japanese American community through outstanding work and volunteering. These individuals embody the pioneer spirit of the first-generation Issei. The award acknowledges their efforts, and they serve as an inspiration to future generations.

The Pioneer Spirit Award committee is proud to recognize Miya Iwataki, Gene Kanamori, Katsuyoshi Miyazato, and David Miyoshi. Nominated by community organizations, each individual is a shining light who has devoted countless hours to making the Japanese American community in Southern California strong.
Tickets are $95 per individual ticket and $950 per table (10 seats). Ticket sales will end on Wednesday, Aug. 6, or earlier if capacity is reached.

To register for tickets online, visit http://niseiweek.org/events/pioneer-luncheon-registration. For more information, email [email protected].