By Mizuki Sakachi, YMCA Japan 
Program coordinator at Yokohama YMCA
Change Agent Cohort 5
The Noto Peninsula in northwestern Japan was hit by a devastating earthquake on 1 January 2024, followed by heavy rains in September. Faced with two disasters in one year, the people of Noto have been working tirelessly to rebuild. YMCA Japan has been coordinating volunteers to support shelters and relief efforts.
I interviewed Ms. Izuho Mozawa, a staff member at Yokohama YMCA and an experienced volunteer in the city of Wajima in Noto, and Mr. Tsuyoshi Shibata, a disaster victim from Wajima who is now working to reuse Wajima lacquerware.
Ms. Izuho Mozawa:
When I visited Wajima in May, I was shocked by the terrible condition of the roads. Even months after the disaster, they were still rough, forcing locals to adapt to the inconvenience. When I returned after the flooding, the damage was overwhelming. But a woman there told me, “Stay positive!” Her words lifted my spirits.
I hope more young people will visit Noto and experience its recovery firsthand. It could be a life-changing experience.
Mr. Tsuyoshi Shibata:
I met Ms. Mozawa at a local school where volunteers distribute food. Her warm smile made a strong impression on me. YMCA leaders are working hard alongside volunteers and inspire a sense of responsibility.
My house was destroyed, but I wanted to help Wajima. When I saw Wajima lacquerware being thrown away, I thought that it was wasteful. I collected them and sold them at charity events to preserve our craft. Wajima lacquerware is beautiful, light, and durable. It is a masterpiece of craftsmanship made in a region with ideal conditions for lacquer drying. It is also reused with care and affection in households where it is cherished. My belief is: “Don’t jump to conclusions before taking action.”
I always start with what I can do myself. I hope everyone receiving the lacquerware will remember Wajima and think about disaster prevention.
Japan experiences many natural disasters, and no one knows when they might become a victim. Yokohama YMCA has sent staff and students to disaster-hit areas.
I believe one important role of the YMCA is to provide opportunities for young people to connect with disaster-stricken areas and, through interaction with residents, to foster a sense of awareness that will change their view of taking action and engaging with society.