TABLE OF CONTENTS
Employee Spotlight
Philippine Employee Appreciation Day
Quickly Travel Honored at the 2025
Asa Azul "Best of the Year" Awards
LA Office Mixer with JTB Corp
Leadership
Department of the Month: GBS BT FIT
Air Operations
MC&A National Pet Day Spotlight
Quickly Travel at the Japanese
Consulate: A Bridge Between Cultures
Asobi Expo Hawaii 2026
Quickly Travel Organizes Major Career Event in Partnership with the Japanese Consulate
How did my Military Service Shape
my Career in Travel Today
NY M&E Team Visiting LA
LA Career Forum
Strengthening Ties: Kuoni Tumlare and Quickly Travel Unite to Promote
Japan
JTB Hawaii Travel Japan Summit 2026
Dayforce Unlocked
Excel Quick Tips
Sena Arakawa Employee Spotlight
Company: JTB Hawaii Travel Department: CS Waikiki
Favorite Place I’ve been to: UK
Favorite Food: Acai Bowl Place I’d like to go to: London
I am looking forward to creating meaningful travel experiences for customers to connect people with new cultures and perspectives. I’m also excited to work with a team that values customer service and cultural exchange.
Company: Tachibana
Department: Driver
Favorite Place I’ve been to: California
Favorite Food: Mexican Food Place I’d like to go to: Europe
I am looking forward to touring the island.
Mike McLemore
Gen Higano Employee Spotlight
Company: JTB Americas
Department: Corporate Planning
Favorite Place I’ve been to: Spain and Brazil
Favorite Food: Tacos and Sushi
Place I’d like to go to: Yellowknife
I am looking forward to precious business experiences with team members, creating relationships and to have fun.
Company: JTB Hawaii Travel
Department: CS Honolulu Airport
Favorite Place I’ve been to: Japan
Favorite Food: Sushi Place I’d like to go to: Europe
I am looking forward to working with all JTB members again and also giving good service to our customers.
Seiki Fujimori Employee Spotlight
Company: JTB USA
Department: M&E Sales
Favorite Place I’ve been to:
Angkor Wat
Favorite Food: Japanese Food
Place I’d like to go to: Ancient City of Sigiriya
I am looking forward to working with people from a wide range of backgrounds, understanding different perspectives and to grow.
Company: JTB USA
Department: DMC Corporate
Favorite Place I’ve been to: Turks and Caicos Islands
Favorite Food: Yakitori
Place I’d like to go to: The
Maldives
I am looking forward to gaining hands on experience in the travel industry and developing my skills while creating memorable travel experiences for clients!
PHILIPPINE EMPLOYEE APPRECIATION DAY
On April 16, JTB Business Travel (JTB USA) hosted an Employee Day in Manila for our Philippines-based team nearly 30 colleagues across Travel Advisors, Travel Tech Support, and Accounting. It marked the first time we were able to bring the entire team together in person to share our strategy, reinforce the importance of our Philippines Hub, and enjoy a celebratory lunch featuring local cuisine.
The highlight of the day was our Brighter Earth Project activity, which brought the group to the Precious Heritage Orphanage in an underserved area of Manila. The children enjoyed a variety of games, including one that had JTB managers enthusiastically dancing with the children. Through a BT manager-led fundraiser, we were also able to donate backpacks filled with school supplies and snacks, along with a special Jollibee fried chicken meal that was met with great excitement.
JTB USA’s Philippines team raised a grand total of $1,296.00 USD for the children’s supplies!!
The day was a meaningful reminder of the value of being part of a global organization committed to giving back to the local communities where we operate truly a Brighter Earth moment.
QUICKLY TRAVEL HONORED AT THE 2025 ASA AZUL "BEST OF THE YEAR" AWARDS
March continues to be a month of celebration for Quickly Travel! We are thrilled to announce that we were recognized at the prestigious 2025 Asa Azul Best of the Year ceremony. This award highlights the excellence we deliver daily and reinforces our unwavering commitment to our clients and partners.
The moment of recognition featured our leadership team: (from left to right) Masaki Fumioka, our CEO, and Gervasio Tanabe, Marketing and Commercial Manager, proudly accepting the trophy. For us, this achievement is more than just a prize; it reflects the hard work of our entire team and the trust our partners place in our expertise. We move forward into 2026 inspired by this recognition, dedicated to maintaining the high standards that define the Quickly Travel signature.
LA Office Mixer with JTB Corp Leadership
JTB Corp. Leadership members including Mr. Yamakita (President of JTB Corp) and Mr. Takeda (President of GBU) visited the Torrance office on April 7th!
After learning more about the long term vision: Open Frontier 2035 and future global initiatives at the JTB Americas Groupwide Assembly, the Torrance office members enjoyed connecting with each other and those visiting from Japan over delicious food and activities!
GBS BT AIR OPERATIONS
This month, we’re highlighting our GBS BT Air Operations team, a group that plays a vital role in supporting a wide range of travel needs across the organization & beyond.
WHAT THEY DO
The Air Operations team manages a diverse portfolio of travel services, specializing in both group air bookings and FIT (Free Independent Traveler) / leisure travel Their group bookings support a wide array of partners, including M&E Sales, JTB Corp, Kuoni Tumlare, in-house teams, and external clients
On the FIT/leisure side, the team handles not only flight bookings but also hotel arrangements (outside of Japan) for customers, JTB Corp, and even fellow JTB employees In addition, they provide ongoing support for business travel (BT) and meetings & events (M&E) group air bookings, making them a key player in both internal and client-facing operations.
JAL Business class on an A350
MEMBERS
Aika Villacarlos
Akemi Takagi
Shigeko Evans
Hiroyuki Imatani
Terumi Thompson
Noriko Brown
Michiko Hoel
Naomi Seo
Maho Taveesub
Check out some photos from some of the airlines the team works with!
WHO THEY SUPPORT
The scope of the Air Operations team is impressively broad. Their “customers” truly include almost everyone—from internal teams and JTB employees to external clients and partners. This unique position allows them to bridge internal collaboration with external service, supporting a wide network of travel needs across the organization.
CURRENT FOCUS: GROWTH & INNOVATION
As the scope and volume of bookings continue to expand, the Air Operations team is focused on finding ways to enhance efficiency and better support their workload With many processes still requiring significant manual effort, there is a strong opportunity to introduce new technologies and tools that can streamline operations and support the team’s growing responsibilities
At the same time, the team remains dedicated to maintaining and elevating their high standard of customer service, ensuring that both internal and external clients continue to receive reliable, responsive support.
JAL Premium Economy class on an A350
Emirates - Lounge at Intuit Dome
WHAT MAKES THE TEAM SPECIAL
LET’S CONNECT!
This year marked an exciting milestone as the team officially joined the BT division. This transition has opened the door to new partnerships and collaboration opportunities with other BT teams.
What makes the Air Operations team particularly unique is their dual perspective: they serve both internal departments and external clients, allowing them to build diverse relationships and gain a wide range of knowledge and experience. This dynamic environment fosters collaboration, adaptability, and continuous learning.
The Air Operations team is always eager to collaborate and explore new opportunities. If you see them at events like BEOF, don’t hesitate to say hello!!
MC&A NATIONAL PET DAY spotlight
In honor of National Pet Day, MC&A shined a spotlight on the unsung heroes of our families—the beloved pets of the MC&A team. From loyal companions curled up at our feet during busy workdays to four‑legged stress relievers who always know when we need a smile, these furry (and feathered) family members play a big role in keeping us balanced, happy, and inspired. Our latest staff pet video is a joyful reminder that behind every great team member is a pet offering unconditional love, constant encouragement, and the occasional interruption that makes the day better.
QUICKLY TRAVEL AT THE JAPANESE CONSULATE:
A BRIDGE BETWEEN CULTURES
Quickly Travel was honored to participate in a special event at the Japanese Consulate, held in partnership with FGV. Our collaborator Marcos Porangaba, from the Planning Department, represented the company during this prestigious gathering focused on Japanese Corporate Culture. This theme is at the core of our identity as part of the JTB Group.
During the event, our collaborator showcased our expertise and strategic role within the global tourism landscape. He shared valuable insights on how Japanese business values influence our daily operations and excellence in service. The occasion also strengthened our ties with academic and diplomatic leaders, reinforcing our brand’s prestige within the Japanese Brazilian business community.
Quickly Travel Comercial & Marketing
JTB Hawaii Travel, LLC collaborated with ASOBISYSTEM Co., Ltd. to create ASOBIEXPO HAWAII 2026, a vibrant Japanese pop culture event held in Honolulu on March 16, 2026. Featuring artists like Kyary Pamyu Pamyu, ATARASHII GAKKO!, and FRUITS ZIPPER, the event brought together local and international audiences while strengthening cultural exchange and tourism between Japan and Hawaiʻi!
JTB HAWAII TRAVEL
As a sister event of the Honolulu Festival, ASOBIEXPO HAWAII 2026 was held despite significant storm conditions earlier in the week. JTB Hawaii Travel led the planning and organization of the event, with our Sales Development Team playing a key role in delivering it by managing a wide range of initiatives, including Japanese pop culture inspired wrapped vehicles, merchandise design, and the planning and production of sponsor booths.
In addition, as part of our commitment to the local community, complimentary tickets were provided to local children under the age of 10, further enhancing community engagement and inclusivity.
For those who were unable to attend, please enjoy the after movie to experience the highlights and energy of ASOBIEXPO HAWAII 2026!
【AFTERMOVIE】ASOBIEXPO HAWAII 2026 - YouTube
Quickly Travel Organizes Major Career Event in Partnership with the Japanese Consulate
Building Careers: Your Future in Japan
The city of Manaus recently hosted "Your Future in Japan," an initiative by the Consulate General of Japan expertly organized by Quickly Travel Held at the Nippaku Association, the event connected 160 participants with global giants including Honda, Yamaha, Kawasaki, Musashi, Nippon Carbide, Nippon Seiki, NLK, and Stanley Angstrom
The occasion was graced by Consul General Akira Suzuki and Advisor Akako Shima. Representing Quickly Travel were CEO Masaki Fumioka, Business Manager Marcelo Hayashi, and Travel Designer Marina Motokuko, supported by local consultants Mieko Hidaka and Camila Façanha, alongside technician Maiku Miru
By facilitating direct engagement with these industry leaders, the Consulate and Quickly Travel successfully bridged the gap between academic interest and international professional opportunities, opening new global doors for talent in the Amazon region.
How did my Military Service Shape my Career in Travel Today
BY DANIELA LATIFF
In my earlier career, I spent 10 years as a Military Police officer in the Canadian Armed Forces and served seven months in the Afghanistan war in 2009 an experience that deeply shaped my sense of dedication and leadership. My experiences in the Military built a powerful foundation: discipline, resilience, crisis response, and leadership under pressure. It taught me how to stay calm and make decisions in unpredictable situations. As a young woman in that environment, I developed confidence, adaptability, and strength qualities that continue to shape how I move through the world today. It also sparked a passion for travel as Military life exposes you to different places, cultures, and perspectives. Now in the Travel Industry, transitioning into a leadership role managing a travel emergency department at JTB Business Travel felt like a natural evolution of my skills and purpose. I’ve moved from protecting people in uniform to supporting and protecting them as they navigate the world
For me, this isn’t just a career shift it’s a continuation of purpose and the reason I love what I do.
M&E TEAM
inLosAngeles
AttheendofApril,someoftheJTBUSA Meetings&EventsNewYorkteammembers hadtheopportunitytovisittheLATorrance officeforteamconferences.Pleasereada commentfromourteammemberUki Fujiwara!
“WhenvisitingtheTorranceofficefromNYC, theM&Esaleshadtheopportunitytolearn moreaboutthesportsdepartmentand newsletter/blogmarketing.Wealsohada mixerandgottomeetotherLAemployees thatwehaveworkedwithonlinebutfinallyin person.Itwasgreatconnectingwithpeople intheoffice!
Wealsohadanamazingexperience attendingaDodgersgameatthefamous Dodgersstadium,throughtheJTBoperated tour.Theexperiencefeltexclusiveandwe wereabletolearnmoreaboutsuites/seats forfuturepotentialcustomers.Overall,Iwas abletoconnectmorewithmyfellow coworkersandupdatedmyknowledgeof ourcompany.”
LA CAREER FORUM
We attended the LA Career Forum on 4/11 and 4/12!
This marks our 9 consecutive year participating (except 2021) in the Career Forum. With almost 800 attendees over the 2 days, we spoke to many talented candidates who want to be part of the JTB Americas group!
We’re hoping to add top talent to your teams!
A special thank you to Tomomi Watanabe (Director of M&E Operations), Osuke Ishiguro (General Manager of DMC Corporate) and Toshihiro Oguchi (General Manager of Corporate Planning) for helping the HR team during the event!
Strengthening Ties: Kuoni Tumlare and Quickly Travel
Unite to Promote
Japan
The visit from the Kuoni Tumlare team to our office reinforces the solid strategic partnership we have built. As members of the same group, this meeting was an excellent opportunity to strengthen our relationship, align objectives, and identify new growth opportunities. This synergy makes us stronger and more robust in the global market. We were honored to host them for an agenda dedicated to promoting Japan We shared valuable market insights, trends, and the expansion potential for tourism to the country. We believe that together, we are stronger. The synergy between our teams and our shared commitment to excellence strategically positions us to increase results and consolidate Japan as a priority destination for the Brazilian market We remain confident that this partnership will continue to drive significant achievements and long-term success.
Japan Summit 2026 is a Key B2B event that brings together travel industry professionals from Japan and Hawai'i to strengthen partnerships and exchange the latest market insights. This year, a total of 105 participants from Japan (20 companies and 3 travel trade media) and 160 participants from 82 companies in Hawaii attended. Through a series of face-to-face business meetings and networking opportunities, our team actively exchanged information with Japanese travel partners, discussed market trends, and explored opportunities for future collaboration. Participating in Japan Summit 2026 reinforced our commitment to supporting the growth of the Japan-Hawai'i travel market and further strengthening our relationships with industry partners.
In this bimonthly section, we’ll introduce tips to help you use Dayforce efficiently!
Did you know that you can view Dayforce in other languages? This month, we’ll review how to change the language settings to Chinese (simplified), Japanese, or Korean.
Search for “profile” using the search box at the top of your Dayforce screen > click Profile > Settings drop-down > Preferences
In the Culture/Language section, select your desired language from the drop-down menu.
Click Save and Dayforce will appear in the selected language the next time you log in. Have a tip you want to share with everyone? If so, email to mnakayama@jtb-hawaii.com.
Please note the following:
Continue to submit forms and comments in ENGLISH even if you change your language. Translations are not perfect, but should be easy to understand. Some information will remain in English due to system limitations. Information on your earning and year-end statements may appear in the selected language. Change your language setting back to English before printing these for official use.
Excel Quick Tip Shortcut Your Way to Excel Mastery
Create Easy Drop‑Down Lists for Faster, Cleaner Data Entry
Drop down lists help you control what people can enter in a cell. Instead of typing anything, users must choose from the list you provide. This improves accuracy and keeps your worksheet clean.
�� PART 1 — Create Your List (Very Important Step)
Before you can create a drop down, Excel needs to know what choices you want people to pick from
✔ Step A Type your list somewhere i k h
Example (type these in cells A2–A5):
✔ Step B — (Recommended by Micros y st to a Table
This is optional but extremely helpful because your drop down will update automatically later
1 Click any cell in your list (A2)
2.Press Ctrl + T → click OK.
�� PART 2 — Create the Drop Down Cell
Now that your list exists, you’re ready to create the drop‑down.
✔ Step A — Select the cell where you want the drop‑down Example: Select cell C2.
✔ Step B — Open Data Validation
1 Go to the Data tab
2 Click Data Validation
If Data Validation is greyed out, the sheet might be protected or shared
✔ Step C Choose “List”
In the Data Validation window: Under Allow, choose List.
✔ Step D — Set the Source (the most important part)
Click inside the Source box, then select the range containing your list items.
Example: If your table is in A2:A5, the Source will look like:
Or if you didn t use a table:
✔ Step E Confirm Click OK.
�� Want more? Check out Microsoft’s full guide here: Create a drop-down list
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THANK YOU
2026
JTB AMERICAS ALL GROUP NEWSLETTER
