ABOUT

WHAT IS IMI Japan?

Our name brings together the Okinawan word imi, meaning “dream,” and the Japanese word for “meaning.” It reflects our hope to help each person find their own path in life.

Through sport, broaden children’s horizons and their choices for the future.

IMI Japan uses sport as a starting point to bring children experiences beyond their everyday lives, including time abroad, English, different cultures, and new connections.

Step into a new environment. Meet someone for the first time. Try speaking English. Play sport in another country.

Each of these experiences can build confidence and open up new possibilities.

We create opportunities that make children want to try something new, helping that first step open up choices for their future.

SPORTS
Take on new challenges through sport.
WORLD
Experience life abroad, English, and different cultures.
FUTURE
Discover more about yourself and what your future could hold.

WHY IMI Japan?

Why I started IMI Japan

Joichiro Oyama playing college baseball in the United States

I was born in Okinawa, and baseball brought me to the United States.

What I discovered there went far beyond the technical side of sport.

There was English, culture, different ways of seeing the world, and the people I met.

Above all, I learned the importance of taking the initiative.

Being the first to speak. Going out to meet people. Choosing to take on a challenge.

Those first steps led to new connections and opportunities.

Now I want to give children a chance to take a first step of their own.

That is how IMI Japan began.

Four values at the heart of IMI Japan

WHAT WE BELIEVE

01 CHALLENGE
Give it a try.
02 ACTION
Take the initiative.
03 EXPERIENCE
Discover an unfamiliar world.
04 POSSIBILITY
Expand your possibilities.

A step into the unknown can open up choices for the future.

Read our message