About Us
What is the WAJSSC?
The Washington State Japanese Speech and Skit Contest (WAJSSC) is arguably the largest and most renowned Japanese language contest in the entire state, traditionally attracting over 50 high school participants each year. This contest offers students an opportunity to challenge themselves by using the Japanese they’ve learned in class, to collaborate with their peers, and to demonstrate their passion for the Japanese language and culture to the wider Washington State community.
Who are we?
Since 2015, the WAJSSC has been overseen by the WAJSSC Committee, comprised of individuals who take a community-based approach to planning aementing the contest. The committee members are representatives from the Hyogo Business & Cultural Center (HBCC), the Consulate General of Japan in Seattle, the Washington Association of Teachers of Japanese (WATJ), and the Japan-America Society of the State of Washington (WATJ).
In 2021, the WAJSSC College Division was established to invite college students to compete, and the WAJSSC Committee currently includes representatives from the University of Washington, Western Washington University, and Eastern Washington University as well.