Origami Peace doll bookmarks bridge Song and Cultural Exchange with Zolani Youth Choir, South Africa
October 19-22, 2025
Posted: November 18, 2025
From October 19-22, a group of five Japanese visitors traveled to a small town in the Western Cape province of the Republic of South Africa to visit the Zolani Youth Choir and deepen their connection through song. At a cultural exchange event introducing Japanese culture, they presented Peace Dolls and tabletop Peace Poles inscribed in Xhosa and English, which were received with great joy.
This tour was realized through the vision of Japanese singer Aluma, who wished to deliver “songs of hope that resonate across the Earth” to the world together with them. On the first day, we stood together on the music festival stage; on the second day, we participated in an exchange meeting where they interacted with high school students from the UK; and on the third day, we held an exchange session where we introduced Japanese dance, kimono dressing, and meditation, and sang together.
Regarding the Peace Pole, choir member Simamkele commented: “This is a very beautiful message unlike anything I’ve seen before. In a world where so many tragic things are happening—poverty, war, crime—’peace’ is undoubtedly the ultimate achievement. This gift is very special.”
Despite the fact that many of the choir members have never received formal music education, they have achieved remarkable success, including winning the grand prize at international a cappella competitions. The time spent with them, whose voices produce powerful harmonies that resonate with the earth and beautiful pure melodies, transcended words and connected us through joy, leaving everyone deeply moved and convinced of a future where we can connect beyond language.
On the final day, choir director Oduwa invited us to the small practice space that is the precious origin of their harmonies. After exchanging songs with each other there, he shared with us the wonderful words: “We are family, we are the same.”
It was a precious experience where we felt with our souls that we are the same existence, transcending our differences. Between Japan and South Africa, our exchange with them will surely deepen further. Please do listen to their singing voices as well.
May Peace Prevail on Earth ・
Aluma – Singer
Leader of the multinational music group “Women of the World,” which conveys love and peace. Winner of numerous international a cappella contests. Has toured over 13 countries delivering songs of love and peace. In the summer of 2024, she completed her 18 years in the United States and returned to Japan. As an artist who transmits to the world the vibrations of voice and sound that move hearts and souls, based on the wisdom and inspiration gained from Japan’s beautiful water and greenery, she is actively engaged in concerts and creative work.
https://www.youtube.com/user/suniausa