The MAJET Committee

MAJET events are organized by the magically eclectic group of volunteers listed below.

From developing resources to organizing events and connecting people with opportunities, we’re working hard to make your time in Miyazaki the best it can be! MAJET’s purpose is to serve the community, so don’t hesitate to get in touch with any of us if you have questions, feedback, or suggestions you’d like to share.

Executive Team

All MAJET volunteers are equally important, but someone had to be formally in charge, so here we are!

President: Sarah Barnes

5th year ALT
Hometown: Durham, England, United Kingdom
Current town: Miyazaki City
she/her/hers

Yo, I’m a 5th year ALT and it’s my 4th year on the MAJET committee! Nice to meet ya. I like anything that involves being outside – so if you’re ever feeling a hike or camping trip, drop me a message! Looking forward to leading MAJET through another year. Feel free to message me if you ever feel down and need cheering up!

Vice-President: Kate Bushong

4th year CIR
Hometown: Jacksonville, Florida, USA
Current town: Nichinan
she/her/hers

初めまして！I’m the current CIR for Nichinan, aka your friendly neighborhood translator. My hobbies include studying foreign language (Chinese and Japanese), painting, and cooking!

Treasurer: Tom Rawson Hammond

4th year ALT
Hometown: Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
Current town: Miyazaki City
they/them/theirs

Hey! I am Tom, hailing from Halifax, Nova Scotia in the Great White North. I studied Game Theory in university, and I am a huge fan of board games and anything strategy related (chess anyone?). I do kendo in Miyazaki City, and I love a good martial arts anime. When bored, I like cooking, making cocktails, and infusing spirits. I hope to see you at one of the MAJET events this year!

Secretary: Em Hammett

5th year ALT
Hometown: Columbus, Ohio, USA
Current town: Nobeoka
she/her/hers

こんにちは！My name is Em Hammett and I’m from Ohio in the United States. I love living in Nobeoka City and enjoy learning more about Nobeoka City, Miyazaki, Kyushuu, and beyond. Also, my favorite Japanese food is Okonomiyaki. I am a fourth year ALT and always like getting to know new people!

General Volunteers

Who needs labels anyway? As stated above, these folks are just as important when it comes to making MAJET function.

Mariah Smith

5th year ALT
Hometown: Detroit, Michigan, USA
Current town: Miyazaki City
she/her/hers/mistress

Wats Up!!!! Hi, I’m Mariah! 5th year JET located in Miyazaki City but I’m from Detroit. DETROIT!!!! I love dancing. My favorite styles are African, modern, hip hop, belly dancing and aerial silks but I don’t know any studios in Miyazaki (>.< sorry). I’m into baking and anime (of course lol). I also like Lolita fashion and no it’s not the same as cosplay =_=. I’m excited to have new members and enjoy fun events with you. Let’s have fun!!!

Tahirah Newkirk

6th year
Hometown: Centreville, Virginia, USA
Current town: Hyuga
she/her/hers

Oh hi. I’m Tahirah, like “to hear a” sound. That’s how you pronounce my name. Got it? Cool. I’m aware that I’m pretty tall, so you don’t have to remind me. Ask me about how much I love Venus and Serena Williams. I dare you. Hobbies include most logic puzzle and hate-reading novels that have melodramatic plots. Major bucket list items include going to all four major tennis tournaments and riding at least one roller coaster in every country I visit. I’m like your extroverted Sims character whose social bar drains quickly, so I’d love to hang out with you if you’re a cool person.

Let’s enjoy our time in Japan together!!