Hello everyone, this is the November issue of the EmPath newsletter.

With its fluttering amber leaves and softly shifting sunlight, autumn brings the quiet wisdom that "change is not loss, but transformation."

This season, when the world seems to be letting go of its brilliance, invites us to pause and recognize the abundance that still remains.

As we reflect on the past year in this season of gratitude, I feel a deep sense of gratitude for the place, connections, and purpose that have always been there for me, and that have always been there for me.

Topic 1: The Spirit of the North Living in the Land of the Samurai

I am grateful for the small yet profound blessings that shape my daily life.

Having a roof over my head, the laughter and support of family and friends, and the passion I have for my work - helping entrepreneurs turn their ideas into reality - are things I often take for granted, but I'm reminded that having access to an education, owning my own car, and having a place to come home to are no small things, but rather quiet pillars that support my life. They keep me grounded and provide balance and purpose in my hectic days.

And of all those gifts, one experience remains especially memorable - my first visit to Japan.

The moment I set foot in the land of the samurai, I felt as if I was in a dream. Japan captivated me with its elegance, beauty, and deep cultural atmosphere. Accustomed to the wide roads and large vehicles of Edmonton (Alberta, Canada), I was astonished by the small, charming, and sophisticated designs of Japanese cars. In a quiet residential area, I was amazed to see two cars passing each other as if in perfect unison on a road so narrow that it seemed like only one car could fit through. I was also amazed by the vending machines scattered throughout the city and the incredible variety of products sold at 7-Eleven stores, from hot drinks to beautifully wrapped rice balls. In these ordinary moments of daily life, I sensed the efficiency, creativity, and attention to detail that are part of Japanese life.

On the other hand, I was also made aware of the large number of tourists and their sometimes unconscious behavior. Seeing children swinging sacred bells as if they were toys, and adults casually sitting in places where respect is expected, I was strongly reminded that not only curiosity but also "respect" is important when traveling.

Personally, I had many unforgettable moments in Japan. The tranquil hot springs where you lose track of time amid the steam, the cuisine where delicate flavors and beauty come together, and the high-speed train journey. The scenery passing by outside the window seemed to flow like something out of a movie. My stay at a ryokan was also memorable. At first, I was nervous about sleeping on a futon on tatami mats, but it was surprisingly comfortable and calming. The tranquility and simplicity of the experience have stayed with me, and now I dream of creating a Japanese-style space in a room in my own home.

The only challenge was the summer heat. The humid 37-degree temperatures were overwhelming. Despite being born in a hot country, I now feel like a true Canadian. My next visit will be in winter, when snow gently covers the temple roofs and mountain paths, revealing another side of Japan's serene beauty.

"I came back changed.

With the soul of the North, but now with the serenity, respect and beauty of another world in my heart."

EmPath Vice President Marie-Laure Polydore

Topic② - Art Festival

The "Kimono Exhibition" will explore the history of kimono production, its influence on Western society, and how kimono continues to fascinate both Japanese and foreigners today. Date: September 22, 2025

Location: National Gallery of Victoria

St Kilda Road, Melbourne, Australia

Organized by: National Gallery of Victoria

Official website: https://www.ngv.vic.gov.au/

(EmPath correspondent Julie Egan, Australia)

Topic 3: East Africa Coffee Festival/Kahawa Festival 2025 (Coffee Culture)

Kahawa means "coffee" in Swahili. The Coffee Festival is positioned as the ultimate tribute to Tanzania's rich coffee heritage. The 2025 edition marked the sixth annual event in Moshi (the coffee capital of the Kilimanjaro region). It attracted over 2,000 participants and was jointly organized by the Tanzania Coffee Board (TCB) and local cooperatives, stakeholders, and private partners. This year's theme was "Coffee: Your Everyday Tradition, Our Shared Journey." The theme focused on the entire coffee value chain—from highland farms to the consumer's cup—and how this "black gold" supports millions of livelihoods and the Tanzanian economy.

Held from October 3rd to 5th, the event's international significance was underscored by its timing to coincide with International Coffee Day (October 1st). This year's venue was the sprawling grounds of the Tanganyika Coffee Curing Company (TCCCo) Limited in Moshi, under the majestic shadow of Mount Kilimanjaro. The location provided an ideal backdrop for the coffee process, from bean roasting to fresh coffee brewing. Participants included farmers, millers, exporters, roasters, baristas, and even financial institutions. Arabica seedlings, sustainable farming tools, and artisanal coffee accessories were also on display.

Beyond the formal program, the three-day event was a vivid immersion into the essence of coffee, blending education, competition, and fun. Traditionally dressed "Chagga farmers" mingled with urban coffee lovers and tourists and enjoyed a variety of activities. More than 40 baristas competed in latte art and hand-dripping, while cuppers (coffee tasters) conducted blind tastings, assessing aroma, acidity, body, and flavor. Winners received prizes and honors, furthering Tanzanian coffee's international reputation.

After the event concluded, participants deemed it a success. In Moshi, the festival's legacy lives on in a cafe, giving visitors a taste of its continuing journey.

Dates : October 3rd-5th Venue : Tanganyika Coffee Curing Company (TCCCo) Limited premises, Moshi, Kilimanjaro Region Organizers : Tanzania Coffee Board (TCB) / Tanzanian coffee stakeholders Website : www.eacoffeefest.com

(Empus Pass Correspondent Catherine Orero - Tanzania)

Topic 4: Event Announcement: "Art Festival & Happiness 2025" (coming soon)

Purpose of the event

"Happiness is just around the corner" — Art Festival & Happiness 2025

Have you ever stopped and noticed the happiness that already exists in your everyday life? The Art Festival & Happiness is an event that harnesses the power of art and community to help you realize that "we are already happy."

Art festival organizers, researchers studying well-being and happiness, university professors, and participants from around the world will rediscover the essence of happiness through presentations and interactive art programs.

With themes of "Oneness," "This is Me," and "Art Program," the event offers a unique opportunity to foster global connections while experiencing the beauty of local communities.

This year's event will be held online, welcoming participants from all over the world. Join us on a journey to find happiness through art!

Event details Date and time

Sunday, November 16, 2025, 2:00 AM – Tokyo (Japan time)

Saturday, November 15, 2025, 9:00 AM – Los Angeles (PST)

Saturday, November 15, 2025, 12:00 PM – New York (Eastern Standard Time)

Saturday, November 15, 2025, 2:00 PM – São Paulo (BRT)

Saturday, November 15, 2025, 6:00 PM – Paris (Central European Time)

Saturday, November 15, 2025, 9pm – Dubai (GST)

Duration: 3 hours

Format: Online

Interpretation: consecutive interpretation

Participation fee: Free

Registration link : https://www.eventbrite.com/e/art-festival-happiness-2025-tickets-1763174364989?aff=oddtdtcreator

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 access via the URL or QR code below.

https://donate.stripe.com/bJe6oIgkxaQm9JC1PwaEE00

Please look forward to the next issue.