ABOUT US

WUB Network

The Worldwide Uchinanchu Business Network, or WUB, is an organization consisting of Uchinanchu and Uchinanchu-at-heart who understands and supports WUB activities from around the world. WUB was established with the core aim of helping Uchinanchu building international business networks and promoting mutual business development for its members and deepen understandings Uchinanchu around the globe. Presently, the network has Chapters in Hawaii, South America, North America, Central America, Japan, and Asia.

Our History

The concept of WUB was initiated at the 2nd Worldwide Uchinanchu Festival in 1995, WUB was formally established in 1997, building upon the foundation laid by the Hawaii Uchinanchu Business Group (HUB). Since its inception meeting in Hawaii in 1997 through to the current year (2024), the network has conducted annual gatherings, offering members from diverse chapters opportunities to strengthen connections and exchange insights and experiences.

Key milestones in WUB's history include the significant declaration of the Okinawa "Peace Economy" Statement at the WUB International Conference in Peru in 2014. 2017 the Network celebrated its 20th anniversary with special events and festivities in Hawaii. Furthermore, the 25th anniversary was observed in 2022 in Muutuya, Okinawa.

In response to the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020-2021 and the ensuing restrictions on physical gatherings, the network has adapted by sustaining exchanges through online platforms like #UCHINA1000.

WUB is actively involved in fostering cross-regional business collaborations among its members and spearheads initiatives such as forging academic-industry partnerships, exemplified by the agreement with Meio University. Additionally, establishing the WUB Scholarship Fund, underscores the Network's commitment to supporting educational endeavors. Furthermore, WUB facilitates exchange programs for high school students between Miyako Island in Okinawa and Maui Island in Hawaii while also dedicating efforts to nurturing the next generation of Uchinanchu networks.