Who We Are
The Beginning of the Movement
The Ashinaga movement began over 55 years ago after President and Founder, Yoshiomi Tamai, lost his mother in a traffic accident in 1963. Having experienced first-hand the lack of support an orphan receives, Tamai and a group of likeminded individuals went on to found the Association for Traffic Accident Orphans in 1967. Through public advocacy, regular media coverage and the development of a street fundraising system, the association was able to set in motion significant improvements in national traffic regulations as well as support bereaved students across Japan.
These methods of street fundraising and advocacy are still a vital component of Ashinaga’s activities today. Student-led activism is a powerful means for conveying the situation of orphaned students to the general public and is central in fostering the qualities of leadership and teamwork in Ashinaga students.
People-led and People-focused
We are people-led – 93% of our funds come from individual donations, rather than major donors or corporate sponsors – and people-focused, developing individuals as agents of change through access to education and our leadership programme. Find out how you can join the Ashinaga movement.
Our Ethos
Warm Heart

Open Mind

Proactive Attitude

International Outlook
