Empowering Women in STEM: US and Japan Perspectives

Panel Discussion | Hosted by The Japanese American Association of New York

Location: New York, NY
Ms. Haruka Kokaze served as emcee for the panel discussion held in celebration of International Women’s Month. Ambassador Mikio Mori delivered the opening remarks, and the event welcomed more than 60 participants to explore how to advance women’s participation in science and technology across the United States and Japan. The panel featured Dr. Angeliki Diane Rigos and Dr. Saori Watanabe, who spoke candidly about overcoming systemic challenges such as salary disparities, the glass ceiling, and balancing career and family. Dr. Maki Kano-Lueckerath moderated the discussion, highlighting the importance of both familial and institutional support in empowering women in STEMM. The event offered an opportunity to examine cultural and structural differences in gender expectations, underscore the role of mentorship and networking, and emphasize the need for leadership training and organizational commitment, reinforcing the importance of U.S.-Japan collaboration in creating supportive environments for women in STEMM careers.

(Left to Right: Haruka Kokaze, Maki Kano-Lueckerath, President, Japanese Medical Society of America, Saori Watanabe, Researcher, Eisai Co., Ltd., Angeliki Diane Rigos, Founder and President, Epistimi, Ambassador Mikio Mori, Consul-General of Japan in New York, Consulate General of Japan, New York)
Read a recap of the event from the Japanese Medical Society of America