Consul-General Eiji Yamamoto (right) with Mr. Osamu Obata and Mrs. Akemi Obata.
Martial Artist and Former Consular Officer Awarded Consul-General's Commendation
Osamu Obata, a former local staff member of the Consulate-General of Japan in Toronto, who also happens to be a martial arts master and tireless teacher of aikido, was awarded a commendation from Consul-General Eiji Yamamoto on Aug. 17.
Mr. Obata came to Canada in 1972 and began work at the Consulate-General of Japan the following year. He has assisted countless Japanese nationals in Canada through his work in the Consular Section of the Consulate-General. His wide-ranging and profound knowledge of policies and administrative procedures relating to family registration, citizenship and visas was of immense help to both Japanese and Canadians. As well, he has provided support in organizing meetings in Canada between high-level representatives of both the Japanese and Canadian Governments, including the G8 and G20 Summits.
As a martial artist, Obata Shihan (master teacher) is a 7th dan recognized by the Aikikai headquarters in Japan. He has provided instruction in aikido at the Japanese Canadian Cultural Centre for 40 years as a volunteer since 1972.
Through both his work at the Consulate-General and as a teacher of aikido, Mr. Obata has made tremendous contributions toward the strengthening of Japan-Canada relations. The Consul-General’s commendation was in recognition of his extremely valuable work.