Buddies Ryder Hirata and Kaio Icasiano are highlighted in NikkeiWest’s new feature section focusing on today’s Japanese American.
My name is Ryder Hirata and I am a freshman at Leigh High School in San Jose. Outside of normal school studies, I play volleyball for my high school team and on the Bay to Bay boys volleyball club team. I recently took an interest in photography while taking photographs for my school volleyball team.
Currently, I am also an active member in the San Jose Jr. YBA and had the recent opportunity to take photographs at the Nikkei Matsuri Festival. The festival was a great way to bring together my friends, my hobby of photography, and my involvement with Japanese American Community. Capturing the good moments in any photo gives me a sense of fulfillment, and the enjoyment of sharing them with others is my passion.
In the future, I’d strive to get into a great college, but will continue sharing my photographs with my family, my friends and my Community.
Hi, my name is Kaio Icasiano. I’m a freshman at Mountain View High School and enjoy playing basketball and volleyball for my school. I have been a member of San Jose Jr. YBA since 2022 and a member of San Jose Jr. Taiko since 2018. In 2023, I reached JTPE (Junior Taiko Performing Ensemble), the highest level of San Jose Jr. Taiko. Ever since being a part of JTPE, I’ve had the opportunity to perform at theaters and festivals, displaying the vibrant culture of Japan. It has been an incredible experience to express and share my passion for my heritage. My involvement with the Japanese American community throughout my life has allowed me to make many great friends and connections. I have been able to learn and appreciate my Japanese roots and have grown to be proud of it, whether it’s playing Taiko at performances and Japanese festivals or simply participating in community activities. In the future, I plan to go to college and maintain involvement within the Japanese community.
