Event Supporters

We are lucky to have Toshi who is well known not only as a amazing photographer, but also an event organizer! Toshi has brought with him, his countless experiences in creating events. We are grateful for his time and efforts to help us prepare and run the event on the day!

Jenny has kindly volunteered her MC skills and experiences from many various events she has attended in the past. Her wonderful personality and unforgettable smile will no doubt add to the uplifting vibe of the night! We are so lucky to have her a MC for the event!

You will see these many happy smiles from our staff volunteers during the night! Please feel free to ask them any questions and they will take good care of you during the event! Thank you to our loving and caring volunteers who bring their vibrant enthusiasm always!

Sakemate's founder and operator, Akito Kurokawa, is an authentic Japanese sake sommelier who loves Japanese sakes as well as Aussie wines and other spirits. An ultimate sake master who you should know.

Sakiyama Shuzo Sho is a brewer of “Ryukyu Awamori Matsufuji”, a sake with a deep-rooted following among awamori enthusiasts. The brewery was first established in Shuri, during the 38th year of the Meiji Era (1905), but even after moving to its location in Kin-cho over 110 years ago it still keeps with traditional brewing practices. This distillery in Kin-cho’s Igei area provides observational tours to share the depth and ways to enjoy awamori with as many people as possible, and there’s even a special tasting area. Sakiyama Shuzo kindly donated Awamori at this event. At Fueenumai, you get to taste Plum Awamori!

The Lion's body is mainly made of sisal and this lionis body (in the photo) was made of sisal came from a company from Kyoto! Kawasaki Rope is a company that has produced ropes, traditional curtains called noren and traditional decorations for Japanese major ceremonies for over 80 years. Kawasaki Rope helped us bring this Lion to come over to Melbourne by providing a document for Australian customs. Thank you so much for your kind support.

Born in Indonesia, Alex has lived in Sydney for 20 years and has a strong interest in Japanese & European culture and history. He has traveled regularly to Japan during the last 10 years. During this time period, he instantly fell in love with Okinawan culture, food and its people. Nowadays he regularly takes pictures of Japanese events in Sydney and also wishes to introduce Okinawan culture to the world.

Since 2017, Keiko has been a huge support of Ichimadin and Okinawa Goodwill Ambassador. Her selfless act and passion to instrudece beautiful Okinawan culture to the world and support young Okinawan are very inspirational to each of us. Keiko lives in Yomitan in Okinawa.