A Shared Mission UWC makes education a force to unite people, nations and cultures for peace and a sustainable future. UWC ISAK Japan’s Distinct Identity At UWC ISAK Japan we empower each other to be transformational leaders who explore new frontiers and make a positive impact today and in the future. We believe not only in the power of education, but also in the power of young people to become catalysts for positive change. We aim to create an environment where students learn to understand and appreciate different perspectives, challenge themselves academically and emotionally, and develop their innate potential as change-makers who can identify what is most important and needed, take action in the face of discomfort, use diversity as a strength, and support others in this practice. Our school motto reflects our hopes for and dedication to all UWC ISAK Japan students as they journey through one of the most important and exciting times of their lives. One Life. Realize Your Potential. Be a Catalyst for Positive Change. UWC ISAK Japan opened its doors in 2014 as International School of Asia, Karuizawa (ISAK) after more than six years of preparation. The school’s history began in 2008, when Lin Kobayashi (ISAK founder and Chair of the Board) and Mamoru Taniya (Representative Founder), two individuals who share a long-running passion for education, were introduced. The two were supported by 100 founders who helped make the dream of ISAK a reality. In 2012, Ms. Kobayashi and newly appointed Head of School, Roderick Jemison, began talks with UWC. Ms. Kobayashi experienced UWC education first hand, graduating from UWC Pearson College in 1993. With so many shared values between ISAK and UWC, it seemed only natural for ISAK to join the movement. In October 2016, UWC announced that ISAK had been granted official approval to join the organization. On August 1, 2017, International School of Asia, Karuizawa became UWC ISAK Japan.
