JBA 2025 New Year’s Party

On January 17, in Torrance, the JBA (Japanese Business Association of Southern California) held its annual New Year’s gathering, the Gashi Kokan-kai.

JBA is a nonprofit organization of about 500 Japanese companies in Southern California, aiming to support member companies, foster Japan-U.S. business understanding, and contribute to the community.

This annual event celebrates the New Year and fosters member networking. However, this year, in light of the major wildfire that struck Los Angeles, the event’s focus shifted to a theme of recovery and community support.

The ceremony featured remarks from JBA President Minamiura and Japanese Consul General in Los Angeles, Takehiro Sone, among other distinguished guests.
They expressed solidarity with those affected by the disaster and conveyed hopes for a swift recovery.

The traditional raffle featuring various prizes donated by member companies was replaced this year with a secret auction to support recovery efforts.
The proceeds will be donated to the American Red Cross.

The New Year’s Party is JBA’s largest annual event, attended by nearly all member companies.
Over 500 participants deepened their ties while expressing hopes for the swift resolution of the wildfire crisis and the continued growth of Japanese businesses and communities in Southern California.