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Online event title:  Building a Stronger Counterpoint Community: 10 Simple Ideas for Connection, Support and Growth

Speaker: Dr. Robert Stroud

Date: Saturday, September 5, 2026

Time: 8 pm-9 pm

Zoom link: Contact Amanda 

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Outline:

This practical and interactive presentation explores 10 simple ideas that may help Counterpoint build a stronger, more connected community across Japan. Drawing on experience in international community building, intercultural communication, engagement, and technology, Robert will explore practical ways to turn a growing network into a more active and supportive community. The session will consider how Counterpoint can engage more of its existing members, develop local and regional support groups, and connect online and face-to-face activities. It will also look at how social media, AI, and the Counterpoint website can be used more effectively to encourage participation, share knowledge, and reduce workload. Particular attention will be given to building bridges with Japanese communities and organizations and finding ways to reach older international residents who may be geographically or socially isolated. Rather than offering fixed solutions, the presentation provides ideas that Counterpoint members can discuss, adapt, test, and develop together.

 

About the speaker: 

Dr. Robert Stroud is a Professor at Hosei University in Tokyo, TEDx speaker, researcher, and international educator. He is known as a Community Architect because much of his work focuses not simply on bringing people together, but on designing the structures, opportunities, and connections that help communities form, grow, and sustain themselves across cultures and borders. He is the founder and editor of The University Grapevine (TUG), an international publication connecting educators and sharing practical ideas from around the world; the founder of Culture Club, a global exchange community connecting participants from more than 30 countries; and a co-founder of Voices of Change (VOC), an international community focused on publishing, professional development, partnerships, and positive change. Across these projects, Robert’s work centers on a simple idea: when we create the right conditions for people to connect, contribute, and belong, stronger communities can grow.

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Robert Stroud

Professor, Hosei University

Founder and Editor of The University Grapevine

Founder and Organizer of Culture Club

Visit Robert's Website

Watch Robert's TEDx Talk

    

The talk will take place on a Saturday evening this time. This may be more convenient for some, but not for others. As usual, we will offer all members who have paid their Counterpoint fees access to a video recording.

 

If you have not paid your fees yet, please use this link to start the process.