The LEMI Women’s Community was born in 2023, at a time when many of us—across industries, nationalities, and backgrounds—were seeking real connection, meaningful conversation, and spaces where we could truly be ourselves.

Over the past two years, thanks to our amazing members, speakers, guests, and organizers, we’ve created something special here in Japan: a supportive, empowering network built on connection, care, and courage.

The good news is that during this time, the number of women’s events and communities has increased dramatically—to the extent that the amazing Lana Suvorova and Katie Marple—have created a special calendar to make it easier for everyone to know what’s available!

This change in the landscape is a part of the reason why, after much deep reflection, we’ve decided to close the LEMI Women’s Community.

But before we do… we have one more fabulous event for you!

This is open to all genders and we’d love you to come and celebrate with us.

"Why Does He Care?"
Panel Discussion and Grand Finale

⏰ Saturday, Jun 28 | 2 p.m. - 5 p.m.
📍 Tokyo

Creating safe, empowering spaces for women is essential—but we don’t live in a world apart from men. Thriving means working together. That’s why we’re closing this chapter of LEMI with a powerful, honest conversation about allyship.

Join us for an interactive panel discussion with some of our stellar speakers as they share what motivates them to champion women’s success and empowerment. We’ll hear personal stories, explore pathways to deeper support, and consider how we can inspire more men to stand with us.

All genders are welcome. We can’t wait to celebrate with you!

Superstar Speakers

Francis Fung

Founder of KiFor – Training companies through social impact

Francis is the founder of KiFor, a Tokyo-based initiative that helps companies grow and retain talent through training that’s immediately applied to real-world social good.

Employees don’t just learn, they immediately put their skills to work supporting local Japanese charities focused on issues like food insecurity, single motherhood and child welfare.

Born and raised in London, Francis came to Japan on what was meant to be a two-week backpacking trip, and never left. Since then, he’s lived a dozen different lives and careers across Japan, and believes deeply that Japan is a place where anyone can reinvent themselves at any time.

Grateful for the opportunities Japan has given him, Francis is now focused on giving back, helping underrepresented groups access better opportunities and support to improve their lives here in Japan.

Yasushi Maruyama

Partner, Egon Zehnder

Yasushi Maruyama is a Partner at Egon Zehnder, a global leadership advisory firm, and a Visiting Scholar at Stanford University's Shorenstein Asia-Pacific Research Center. With nearly 20 years of experience advising senior executives and boards at top Japanese and global companies, Yasushi specializes in CEO succession, leadership development, and organizational change.

Previously, Yasushi served as Egon Zehnder’s Japan Country Leader and was a member of its Global Executive Committee, overseeing global people functions. He also worked with McKinsey & Company in Japan and Germany. Yasushi actively champions gender diversity, providing coaching and advisory services to numerous female executives in Japan, empowering them to advance into leadership roles. He is passionate about developing future leaders, frequently engaging with university and high school students.

Originally from rural Nagano, Yasushi overcame cultural and linguistic barriers, reflecting his deep commitment to inclusion and developing courageous leaders for diverse global markets.

Our Marvelous Moderators