Spark Exchange Program — Cultural Exchange Initiative

SUMMER PROGRAMS

Join a short-term summer exchange program in Japan and help participants build confidence speaking English through highly interactive communication camps.

August 1–10, 2026 • Tokyo, Nagoya, and Fukuoka
Info session: May 30, 3 pm, Showa Boston or online

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Join Information Session

A summer exchange with real impact

Spark is a short-term summer exchange program in Japan organized by Cultural Exchange Initiative, a nonprofit based in Boston. Since 2017, CEI has sent facilitators to Japan to support immersive, highly interactive English communication programs for students and young professionals.

We do not teach English. Our focus is on building confidence through communication, teamwork, and real interaction.

What facilitators do

As a Spark facilitator, you will support interactive sessions designed to help participants in Japan build confidence speaking English. You will help lead group activities, encourage participation, support presentations and discussions, and create an engaging and positive camp experience.

Facilitate small-group and large-group activities
Support discussions and activities
Help participants build confidence in spoken English
Join training and preparation before departure

Group of young people sitting on the floor around low tables, engaging in conversation and activities in a classroom or meeting setting.

Group of young women and a young man having a discussion at a table with notebooks, sticky notes, and electronic devices.

Who should apply

We welcome applicants based in the U.S. who are enthusiastic, adaptable, and excited about cross-cultural exchange. You do not need to be a licensed teacher. We are looking for facilitators who enjoy communication, teamwork, and creating an encouraging learning environment.

Japanese language ability is welcome, but not required.

A strong fit for:

College and graduate students, young professionals
Applicants interested in Japan
People considering JET or future work in Japan

2026 Program tracks

A woman giving a presentation on a classroom projector screen about studying abroad options, with students seated and listening.

Active Presentation Camp
For high school and college students

CEI facilitators lead interactive activities focused on team building, design thinking, and presentation skills, drawing from university and professional experiences. Japanese Students gain confidence in speaking English through our 3-day camp, finishing with group presentations at the end.

A woman giving a presentation in a conference room with several attendees. The presentation slide on the screen shows red arrows pointing upward for information, empathy, and consistency, with a title about influence strategies and advocacy effect.

Negotiation Camp
For college/graduate students, and early professionals

Co-developed with a leading professor from MIT Sloan School of Management and industry professionals, this two-day interactive camp equips participants with essential negotiation skills through real-world case studies and hands-on practice.

Why Apply to Spark?

Future opportunities
A strong step toward JET and jobs in Japan. Many Spark alumni have used this experience to apply to the JET Program and pursue jobs in Japan.

Leadership experience
Build facilitation and leadership experience

Cross-cultural experience
Live and work in Japan with local partners

Real impact
Help participants build confidence in English