Los Angeles, California — May 24, 2026 — Two outstanding Texas students represented the Lone Star State at the 21st Annual All-USA High School Japanese Speech Contest, held at the Miyako Hotel Los Angeles in Little Tokyo on May 24.
Selected to compete were Onyoo Jung, an 11th-grade student at Claudia Taylor “Lady Bird” Johnson High School in San Antonio, and Isaac (Ike) Fallin, a 12th-grade student at Richardson High School in Richardson. The students earned the opportunity to advance to the national stage after placing first and second, respectively, at the 2026 Texas State Japanese Language Speech Contest.
Hosted by the Japanese Language Scholarship Foundation (Aurora Foundation), the All-USA High School Japanese Speech Contest brings together some of the nation's most accomplished Japanese language learners. The annual competition provides non-native high school students studying Japanese with an opportunity to deliver original speeches in Japanese before a national audience while building connections with fellow learners from across the United States.
Jung presented a speech titled “A World Opened Through Languages” (言語によって広がる世界), reflecting on the ways language learning can broaden perspectives and create meaningful connections across cultures. Fallin delivered “Ki Ken Tai no Icchi as a Way of Life” (気剣体の一致), exploring the Japanese concept of unity between spirit, sword, and body and its application beyond martial arts.
Participation in the national contest represents a significant achievement and reflects the dedication, perseverance, and language proficiency required to excel in Japanese language study. Contestants were selected through a rigorous screening process from among top performers in regional and state-level competitions throughout the country.
The Japan-America Society of Houston congratulates Onyoo Jung and Ike Fallin on their outstanding accomplishments and for serving as exceptional ambassadors for Texas Japanese language education. Their success highlights the growing interest in Japanese language and culture among young people and underscores the importance of educational exchange in strengthening U.S.-Japan relations.
JASH also extends its appreciation to the teachers, schools, parents, and volunteers whose support helps make Japanese language education opportunities possible for students across Texas.
Images courtesy of Aurora Foundation