President of the Association of Wives of African Ambassadors in Japan (AWAAJ) Alice Parker-Allotey of Ghana speaks at the organization's sixth annual Charity Dinner Dance. The AWAAJ is a non-governmental, non-profit and non-religious organization that aims to showcase African cultural heritage to Japanese people and others residing in Japan, as well as raise funds for various charities. | YOSHIAKI MIURA
President of the Association of Wives of African Ambassadors in Japan (AWAAJ) Alice Parker-Allotey of Ghana speaks at the organization's sixth annual Charity Dinner Dance. The AWAAJ is a non-governmental, non-profit and non-religious organization that aims to showcase African cultural heritage to Japanese people and others residing in Japan, as well as raise funds for various charities. | YOSHIAKI MIURA

AWAAJ members pose at the group's Charity Dinner Dance at the Tokyo Marriott Hotel on April 14. | YOSHIAKI MIURA
AWAAJ members pose at the group's Charity Dinner Dance at the Tokyo Marriott Hotel on April 14. | YOSHIAKI MIURA

Lao Ambassador Viroth Sundara (right) and his wife Simuang propose a toast at a celebration of the Lao New Year, or Buddhist year 2560. | YOSHIAKI MIURA
Lao Ambassador Viroth Sundara (right) and his wife Simuang propose a toast at a celebration of the Lao New Year, or Buddhist year 2560. | YOSHIAKI MIURA

Japanese and Lao attendees participate in the Basy Ceremony at the embasy in Tokyo on April 16. | YOSHIAKI MIURA
Japanese and Lao attendees participate in the Basy Ceremony at the embasy in Tokyo on April 16. | YOSHIAKI MIURA