Yohei Sasakawa has been the chairman of the Nippon Foundation since 2005, after having served as a trustee since 1981 and its president from 1989 to 2005. Under his stewardship, the philanthropic organization has steadily expanded the scope of its activities and gained increasing recognition worldwide.

Above all, Chairman Sasakawa has been dedicated to the ongoing fight to eliminate the disease of leprosy—a task he describes as his “life work.” And this specific effort is part of his broader commitment to the cause of social justice.

Please read the message from Chairman Sasakawa and his biography to find out more about the philosophy that animates his own activities and those of the Nippon Foundation. He also posts regularly at his blog to share his thoughts and provide updates on his travels and latest endeavors.