Japanese-English Language Exchange (JELE) @ Jinya Ramen

📍 JINYA Ramen Bar
🤝 In partnership with the Japan-America Association of South Carolina (JAASC)
🎤 Hosted by Aiyana Mathews, Advisory Board Member, JAASC

The Japanese–English Language Exchange (JELE) is a relaxed, welcoming gathering designed to bring people together through conversation, cultural exchange, and community.

This is not a formal class—it’s an open, social environment where participants can practice Japanese and/or English, share experiences, and build meaningful connections with others who have an interest in Japan and Japanese culture.

Whether you’re fluent, learning, or simply curious, JELE offers a comfortable space to engage at your own level.

• Has lived in Japan
• Wants to live in Japan
• Has traveled to Japan
• Is learning Japanese or English
• Has an affinity for Japan and Japanese culture
• Is Japanese and would like to make English-speaking friends

👨‍👩‍👧 Children and families are encouraged to attend
🚫 No pets, please

As part of the evening, Aiyana Mathews will give a short, engaging presentation on Shinnenkai, the traditional Japanese New Year gathering.

Shinnenkai—which literally means “New Year Party”—is a widely observed custom in Japan where friends, families, coworkers, and community groups come together in January to:

• Celebrate fresh beginnings
• Reflect on the past year
• Strengthen relationships
• Set intentions for the year ahead

Aiyana will also briefly touch on other Japanese New Year traditions, offering cultural context that helps participants better understand how community, gratitude, and renewal are celebrated in Japan.

Aiyana Mathews is an Advisory Board Member of the Japan-America Association of South Carolina and the founder of the Japanese-English Language Exchange (JELE) in Charleston.

Her connection to Japan spans many years and includes academic study, professional engagement, cultural programming, and community-based exchange. Aiyana is deeply committed to strengthening U.S.–Japan relationships at the local level by creating accessible spaces for dialogue, learning, and cross-cultural connection.

✨ Registration is HIGHLY RECOMMENDED to help us plan appropriately and ensure a great experience for everyone.

For questions, partnerships, or future JELE opportunities, please contact:
📧 Aiyana Mathews
📩 [Insert your preferred email address here]

We look forward to welcoming you for an evening of language, culture, and connection—kampai and yoroshiku onegaishimasu!

Info: Open mingling & Japanese–English conversation
Practice at your own pace—no pressure, no fluency required. 自由な交流＆日本語・英語の会話 自分のペースで練習できます。プレッシャーはありません。流暢である必要もありません。

Info: A short, informal presentation by Aiyana Mathews on Japanese New Year traditions, reflection, and fresh beginnings. アイヤナ・マシューズによる、日本のお正月の伝統や振り返り、新しい始まりについての短くカジュアルなプレゼンテーション。

Info: We invite you to continue the conversation, ask questions, and make new friends in a relaxed, welcoming environment.リラックスした雰囲気の中で、会話を続けたり、質問したり、新しい友だちを作ったりしてお楽しみください。

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

JINYA Ramen Bar - Charleston, 850 Morrison Drive, Charleston, United States

Concerts, fests, parties, meetups - all the happenings, one place.

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