Connections

Connections, formerly known as the Women's Group, has been enhancing the lives of Members and their families through social events, enrichment programs and charitable activities for more than 70 years.

This club within a club is a support network that enables its members to form enduring friendships, gain a deeper appreciation for Japan and utilize professional skills as volunteers.

The group is evolving to meet the needs of Members looking for an authentic, rewarding Japan experience and community involvement.

With more evening programs to accommodate busy schedules, the group warmly welcomes men and women, professionals, nonworking individuals, expats and locals.

For annual dues of ¥7,000, Connections members enjoy exclusive benefits:
●    Monthly Connections get-togethers (Coffee, Culture and Cocktail).
●    Waived enrichment class registration fees.
●    Discounts for tours.
●    Childcare Center discounts.

Not yet a Connections member? Join online today. For more information, drop by the Connections Office (B1) or follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

There are a variety of regular events to engage and inspire members.

Social Programs
Connections hosts day, evening, seasonal and themed events from September through May, including a holiday luncheon in December and an Oscars watch party each March.

Monthly Connections
Three forums for meeting and mingling:

Coffee Connections
Held on the last Monday of the month, this relaxed gathering allows Tokyo newcomers and longtime residents to connect, share experiences and enjoy coffee with friends.
Culture Connections
Held on the first Monday of each month, this international get-together allows for guided conversations on timely topics. Learn about other cultures and customs, practice your language skills and enjoy new companions in a welcoming environment.
Cocktail Connections
Held on one Wednesday each month, this is a fun, informal happy hour with complimentary appetizers. New Connections members and those celebrating their birthdays during the month receive a complimentary glass of happy hour wine or beer.

Tokyo 101: An Expat's Guide to Living in Japan
A comprehensive two-day orientation program held yearly, Tokyo 101 features practical presentations on local healthcare, dealing with emergencies, cultural adjustment, Japanese culture and cuisine, travel, shopping and more.

This is an opportunity for newcomers to learn how to make the most of their time in Tokyo from local experts and expats.

Find a new passion or expand your skills through the wide range of spring and fall enrichment classes led by experienced instructors and guides:

● Art & Crafts
● Cuisine
● Culture & Excursions
● Language & Lifestyle
● Online

The ¥3,500 class registration fee is waived for Connections members. Class and material fees vary.

Connections organizes an annual calendar of fun and educational tours, from day trips to overnight excursions.

Tours have included festivals, Tokyo neighborhoods, hikes, outlet shopping, cultural destinations and gardens.

Connections members enjoy advanced registration and discounted tour fees.

Through its various annual sales and fundraising efforts, Connections raises millions of yen for local charities each year and adjusts its contributions based on the immediate needs of those charities.

Sales Events
The International Bazaar and Decor! bring together dozens of vendors and specialists for multiday shopping extravaganzas. The Nearly New Sale allows members to repurpose their excess belongings to support the group's fundraising efforts. Net proceeds benefit charities.

Carpet Auction
Hosted by Eastern Carpets of Singapore, this evening of carpet appreciation, socializing and bidding is a fun way to support selected charities.

Charity Drives
During the Salvation Army and Sanyukai charity drives, Connections collects used clothing and other items for donation to these two local charities.

Donations
Connections supports a number of local charities that have insufficient fundraising resources or government support. Occasionally, funds are used for international disaster relief efforts.

Donations in 2023 totaled ¥6.4 million to the following recipients:

Carer Action Network Association (¥1 million)
Provides support and training for young caregivers.
Kanita Women’s Village (¥1.5 million)
Japan's only long-term residential shelter for women, established in 1965.
Multicultural Center Tokyo (¥800,000)
Educational support organization for immigrant children and families.
Nanbyo Children Support Network (¥1.5 million)
Organizes counseling, meetups and outdoor activities for children with intractable diseases and disabilities.
Single Mothers Forum (¥1 million)
Provides support and counseling for single mothers and their children.
TELL (¥600,000)
Multilingual counseling and support services.

To learn more about the charities or to find out how you can donate directly, please contact Lina Raffone, director of charities, at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

The Connections board oversees the activities of the organization.

President
Vanessa Thomas

Vice President
Jillian Lee Tattle

Director of Finance
Scarlett Guanyu Li

Director of Culture
To be confirmed

Director of Charities
Lina Raffone

Director of Communications
Blanka Kobayashi

Director of Community
Janet Ferrett

Director of Administration
Maria (Nela) Amaral

Director of Membership
Catherine Schiavo