One of the world’s largest celebrations of Japanese pop culture became an extraordinary platform for international friendship this summer as the Los Angeles–Nagoya Sister City Affiliation (LANSCA) was selected as the official Charity Auction recipient at Anime Expo 2026.
The recognition placed LANSCA before thousands of Anime Expo attendees while raising more than $52,000 to support the organization’s mission of strengthening cultural, educational, commercial, and community ties between Los Angeles and its Japanese sister city, Nagoya.
Adding a unique and meaningful touch to this year’s fundraiser, LANSCA’s Next Gen Committee — led by LANSCA board member Max Jordan and composed of former LANSCA Student Exchange Program participants from Nagoya and Los Angeles — created the artwork featured on traditional Japanese uchiwa (flat hand fans).
The specially designed fans were auctioned by Anime Expo, with proceeds benefiting LANSCA showcasing the creativity, leadership, and lasting friendships fostered through the organization’s long-running Student Exchange Program.
The celebration culminated during Anime Expo’s closing ceremony, where LANSCA Chairwoman Teruko Weinberg was invited to address thousands of attendees from around the world. During the on-stage interview, Weinberg reflected on LANSCA’s 67-year history of fostering friendship between Los Angeles and Nagoya.
“Thank you again for this fantastic opportunity. We are so happy to know how much people support us,” Weinberg said. She also encouraged attendees to experience Nagoya first-hand, adding, “And if you have a chance to visit Japan, please visit Nagoya. There’s a lot to see and do there — traditional and modern — not to mention the great food, all without the crowds of Tokyo and Kyoto.”
For LANSCA’s volunteers, the recognition carried special meaning. As a nonprofit organization powered almost entirely by volunteers, the opportunity to partner with Anime Expo provided not only significant financial support but also renewed energy and encouragement.
“When we feel the energy of people like Anime Expo supporting what we do, it gives us a real morale boost to keep on with our projects and try to do more,” Weinberg remarked during the closing ceremony.
LANSCA also extends its heartfelt appreciation to Anime Expo President Ray Chiang and the Anime Expo leadership team for their support and commitment to building meaningful connections between the Japanese American community, Japan, and the greater Los Angeles community. Their partnership has helped introduce LANSCA’s mission to a new audience while strengthening the enduring friendship between Los Angeles and Nagoya.
The collaboration reflects the growing relationship between LANSCA and Anime Expo. Earlier this year, Anime Expo leadership participated in LANSCA’s Los Angeles Heritage Celebration, and this latest partnership further demonstrates a shared commitment to promoting Japanese culture, international friendship, and community engagement.
For more information about LANSCA, visit lansca.org. For more information about Anime Expo, visit Society for the Promotion of Japanese Anime at spja.org/events.