thesilkroadtoday
NAGOYA, JAPAN — 17 OCTOBER 2026 — A distinguished reception hosted by Hideaki Ohmura, Governor of Aichi Prefecture and President of the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games Organising Committee (AINAGOC), brought together prominent sports leaders, international dignitaries, and distinguished Japanese figures in a prestigious gathering in Nagoya.
Among the distinguished guests were Governor Hideaki Ohmura; Ichiro Hirosawa, Mayor of Nagoya; Andrew Parsons, President of the International Paralympic Committee (IPC); and Majid Rashed, President of the Asian Paralympic Committee (APC).
The distinguished leaders were invited onto the stage, dressed in traditional Japanese red ceremonial robes, adding a touch of cultural elegance to the occasion. Held at the luxurious ESPACIO Nagoya Castle, the reception offered guests fine Japanese cuisine and a cultural bazaar showcasing complimentary items representing Aichi Prefecture. The event adopted a standing-reception format, allowing guests to mingle and engage in conversations around tables.
Natalia Tjahja: Invited as APC Family
Among the invited guests was Natalia Tjahja, founder of the Maria Monique Last Wish Foundation (MMLWF) and initiator of 100 CTFP — 100 Celebrities Talk for Para Athletes, an initiative dedicated to encouraging and inspiring para athletes.
Natalia was the only Indonesian figure attending the distinguished gathering. Her invitation came through the Asian Paralympic Committee, reflecting her connection with the APC family.
A Warm Welcome Upon Arrival in Japan
Before departing Indonesia, Natalia experienced an unexpected moment at Jakarta’s airport when an airline staff member was surprised by the unusual nature of her Japanese visa. Initially assuming that Natalia was leading a large delegation, the staff member was even more astonished to discover that she was travelling alone.
Upon arriving in Japan in the early hours of Saturday, 17 October 2026, Natalia received a warm welcome from Miki Matheson, a Japanese Paralympic gold medallist, member of the IPC Governing Board, and Para Sports Leader of 100 CTFP Japan.
A Special Moment with IPC President Andrew Parsons
At one point during the event, Natalia found herself standing beside a table where Andrew Parsons and Miki Matheson were also present. The moment brought her a profound sense of warmth, belonging, and closeness to the IPC and APC, both of which she regards as extended families of 100 CTFP.
On this special occasion, Natalia presented Andrew Parsons with a unique 100 CTFP card bearing his name and the serial number 00001, recognising him as the Father of 100 CTFP Worldwide.
Natalia explained the distinctive concept behind the card. Its front features an inspiring message from a celebrity or prominent figure, intended to encourage and uplift para athletes, alongside its unique serial number. The reverse introduces the 100 CTFP initiative and conveys a message of appreciation to Andrew Parsons.
Andrew was delighted to receive the special card, marking a meaningful moment in the continuing journey of 100 CTFP.
Natalia and Miki Matheson also had the opportunity to take a photograph with Governor Hideaki Ohmura, preserving a memorable moment amid the warm and joyful atmosphere of the gathering.
Reconnecting with the International 100 CTFP Family
During her stay in Nagoya, Natalia met leaders of National Paralympic Committees (NPCs) from various countries that have expressed their support for 100 CTFP. These encounters further strengthened the sense of international connection surrounding the initiative.
She also met Beautiful Heart Naoe Yasuoka, a member of the Asian Paralympic Committee Board, whose presence added another meaningful connection to Natalia’s time in Japan.
A Beautiful Night Walk in Aichi with Deepa Malik and Her Daughter
Among Natalia’s cherished memories in Japan was a beautiful evening walk through Aichi with Deepa Malik, an Asian Paralympic Committee Board Member and Asian Para Sports Leader of 100 CTFP, accompanied by her daughter, Devika Malik.
Beyond the distinguished gathering and encounters with international sports leaders, this personal moment offered another opportunity to share warmth, friendship, and togetherness.
Reflecting on her experiences in Japan, Natalia expressed her heartfelt gratitude:
“Thank God for everything.”
