Hello everyone.

We are pleased to present our September newsletter.

Even as the seasons change, there is always something to learn from nature, culture, and connections with people. This month, we will introduce the deeper meaning of summer, art events around the world, and international forums and community talks that EmPath is involved in. Please take your time and enjoy.

Topic① Title: "What summer teaches us"

Summer has long been known as the season of light, warmth, and vitality. It's not just the sunshine and long days, but it also has a deeper meaning. Summer is the season in which we grow from the innocence of spring and take on the responsibilities of adulthood. It's a season filled with hope, joy, and positive energy, reminding us of the abundance of life and our connection to the world.

From a spiritual perspective, summer symbolizes expansion. The long hours of daylight give us the opportunity to be in harmony with nature and receive the sun's energy with our entire being. Light itself is nourishing, helps plants grow, regulates our internal rhythms, and renews our minds. In many cultures, summer is a "festival of light," cherished as a time when joy and creativity flourish.

This is especially true here in Alberta. Summer brings light past 10 p.m. and long evenings that allow us to enjoy rich moments of connection with the earth, exploring rivers and trails, spending time outdoors with friends, and taking deep breaths of fresh air. The long, lingering sunsets allow us time to connect with nature and find balance.

But summer also brings with it harsh reminders of nature. Floods across the United States, massive wildfires in Canada, earthquake-related tsunami warnings in Russia, and extreme heat and wildfires in Europe all highlight the fragility of our relationship with the Earth. These events are not coincidences; they are part of the reality of climate change. Our once mild and predictable summers are changing, bringing with them new challenges along with the blessings of sunshine. The Earth is calling us to be careful and to assume our responsibilities.

But summer also teaches us resilience. It teaches us not to lose hope in the midst of hardship, to cherish each bright day, and to support each other. It reminds us that even though joys and trials coexist, there is beauty in life that is worth celebrating.

Each year, summer is not just a season for fun, but also a time to reflect on our role as stewards of the Earth. For spiritual growth, for community growth, and for our responsibility to protect the planet for future generations. Summer is both a celebration of light and a call to action.

(EmPath Vice President Marie-Laure Polydore)

Topic 2: A chalk art festival that colors the seaside

A chalk art festival that colors the seaside

The 17th annual Ventura Art and Chalk Festival will be held in Ventura, California on September 13th and 14th. The festival venue, Ventura Harbor Village, will be bustling with booths from artists, artisans, and vendors, along with beautiful coastal views.

The festival's greatest feature is how the sidewalks are transformed into art galleries. Professional chalk artists transform children's play into full-fledged art, transforming inorganic concrete into vibrant works of art. Visitors can enjoy the creative process up close, and as they walk along the pier, they can experience an "open-air art museum" unfolding beneath their feet. There is also an area reserved for children, allowing them to freely express themselves, making it one of the festival's attractions.

There's also plenty of music, food, and handicrafts by local artists. This annual event, beloved by the local community, brings creativity and energy to visitors.

(EmPath correspondent Saby Clarke, California)

Topic 3: Peace Tourism Forum 2025 There's still time, so apply early!

"Peace begins to move from this place, at this time when the whole world is connected!" - People, communities, and aspirations come together to build a future together -

Every day, there are moments when we wonder, "Why is the world the way it is?" or "Can we make the world a better place?" A global forum to tackle these questions will be held this summer, connecting Haneda Airport with the world online.

The Peace Tourism Forum 2025 is an international event that aims to create dialogue that transcends different cultures and values from the perspective of "tourism and peace." Organized by the EmPath Foundation and the Michishirube Association, the event brings together university students and young people from around the world to explore the potential for connecting people and communities through tourism.

🕊Event Overview

• Date and time : Saturday, August 30, 2025, 14:00-16:45 (Japan time)

• Venue : Tokyo Haneda Airport + Online (hybrid event/consecutive interpretation available)

• Organizers : EmPath General Incorporated Foundation × Michishirube General Incorporated Association

Why not embark on a journey to discover the world and yourself through sightseeing? For details and to apply, click here!

Kokuchizu

https://www.kokuchpro.com/event/c29b9e50ea3f3a3512a234db30e4f472/

Topic 4: Coffee Cultures United 2025 Community Talk

Coffee is a special drink that connects people all over the world. Every cup of coffee involves the producer, shop owner, barista, consumer, and local community.

Coffee Cultures United 2025 Community Talk is an event themed around "Connections Made Through Coffee," where coffee professionals from around the world gather to promote exchanges and cooperation within the industry. The aim is to develop a sustainable coffee industry, revitalize local communities, and deepen multicultural understanding.

• Date and Time:

Sunday , September 28, 2025 0:00-2:00 (JST) Saturday, September 27, 2025 11:00-13:00 (EDT)

Saturday, September 27th 12:00-14:00 (BRT)

Saturday, September 27th 17:00-19:00 (CEST)

September 27th (Sat) 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM (GGST)

• Participation fee : Free

• More details will be announced soon.

Thank you for reading to the end. This is a season when we are encouraged by the power of light and nature and are reminded of the importance of connecting with people across cultures and regions. EmPath will continue to learn, share, and connect with you to the future.

Our activities are made possible by the support of many people. If you feel that this is something you would like to support, please consider making a donation. Your support will be a great help in supporting our activities for the next generation.

Please use the URL or QR code below.

https://donate.stripe.com/bJe6oIgkxaQm9JC1PwaEE00

Please look forward to the next issue.