Lequio Wings is an NPO founded to make Okinawa an island open to the world, built on exchange and coexistence, and to contribute to Okinawa's self-reliance. It was started by volunteers who wanted to change society, centered on returned Japan Overseas Cooperation Volunteers. Its four main areas are international cooperation, international exchange, human resource development and regional revitalization.
Its history lists JICA thematic training such as strengthening education administration to address disparities in basic education, training on peace education for Colombia, and youth training on agribusiness and agri-ecotourism for the Philippines. It has also carried out grassroots technical cooperation projects involving Victorias City in the Philippines and a partnership between Nago City and Krabi City in Thailand.
Its community-facing efforts include international exchange events such as "Fun Africa in Nanjo" and "Fiesta BOLIVIA x OKINAWA," the "Fly Anay!" program that gives young people with disabilities experience in developing countries, and the secretariat of the Okinawa International Cooperation Platform. The latest news on its website includes a seminar announcement for October 22, 2026 and a report on the completion of its fiscal 2026 training course.
Key points
- An Okinawa NPO born from returned Japan Overseas Cooperation Volunteers and others
- Exchange with the Philippines, Thailand, Colombia and more through JICA training and grassroots projects
- Exchange events and overseas experience programs that bring the world closer to people in Okinawa
Why this organization's work stands out
Its purpose states clearly the aim of linking Okinawa's history, culture and island character to international cooperation. Its continued involvement in projects connecting local governments with overseas cities is a useful reference.
It both welcomes training participants and offers events and experience programs for local people to encounter the world, giving several ways to feel international cooperation up close.
Editor's comment
True to its motto, the two-way flow of its international cooperation left a strong impression on me.
Its latest news and projects are introduced on the official website. Please take a look.