A Journey of Culture, Creativity & Connection
The Japan Afro American Friendship Association (JAFA) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to bridging cultures, inspiring the next generation, and creating opportunities for learning, business, and friendship.
Founded in Tokyo in 1981 and established in San Francisco in 2023, JAFA USA continues this legacy with programs that connect the African Diaspora communities and Japan through culture, education, and collaboration.
Bridging Japanese pop culture and African Diaspora energy to inspire the next generation.
Life at JAFA celebrates culture, friendship, and shared experiences across Japan. From festivals to workshops, these photos capture the vibrant life of our community.
From Yasuke, the first African samurai in 16th-century Japan, to the founding of JAFA in Tokyo in 1981, our history is filled with remarkable stories of courage, culture, and community. For over four decades, JAFA has worked to bridge cultures, celebrate diversity, and create lasting friendships between people of African descent and Japan.
Our journey honors the voices and contributions of generations who built understanding across borders. By preserving these stories, we ensure that future generations can learn, connect, and be inspired.
Dialogue, exchange, and partnerships that create mutual understanding.
Discover anime, manga, cuisine, art, and Japanese traditions.
Guidance to live, work, or study in Japan.
Creating pathways for youth, professionals, and families to thrive together.
Exploring how Japanese pop culture inspires creativity and connects global communities.
Collaborating with schools, businesses, and cultural organizations to expand opportunities and strengthen ties.
Programs designed to deepen appreciation of Japanese and African American cultures.
Highlighting history, heritage, and cross-cultural collaboration.
Strengthening ties through events, workshops, and lasting friendships.
JAFA is more than a bridge; it’s a global movement. Our collaborations include:
🇯🇵 Japan – Language immersion, cultural tours, student and professional exchanges.
🌍 Africa – Youth empowerment, education initiatives, and community development.
🇺🇸 USA – Programs that preserve JAFA’s legacy while inspiring a younger generation.
Numbers that showcase our population, market and growth potential.
United States
United Kingdom
Canada
Real people. Real experiences.
From cultural exchanges to community programs, JAFA captures the spirit of unity, history, and learning. Each moment reflects our mission to connect people and empower future generations.
Join our programs, volunteer, or become a member to help strengthen cultural ties and celebrate shared heritage.
