First in Asia! Sam Tawada receives the Ken Lord Award from the International Guide Dog Federation.
2023. 5. 30
NewsThe Japan Guide Dog Association has been contributing to the independence of the vision impaired for more than half a century through its guide dog movement in line with its mission:
"We provide safe and comfortable mobility with guide dogs for the visually impaired and those with low vision so that they can go where, anytime, as they wish."
Sam Tawada, a guide dog mobility instructor and our COO, received the Ken Lord Award for his global guide dog movement achievements at the International Guide Dog Federation conference held in Vancouver, Canada, from 27th to 30th April 2023. Named after Ken Lord, one of the co-founders of the International Guide Dog Federation, who contributed to the guide dog movement for more than 40 years and served as the CEO of the South African Guide Dogs Association, the award recognises individuals who have contributed to the international guide dog movement for many years.
Sam was the first Asian award recipient for his 49 years of service. In Japan, he has significantly promoted awareness and understanding of guide dogs, as depicted as the main character in the book 'The Life of Quill, the Guide Dog' (2001).
Sam Tawada (center) shares his joy with William Thornton (second from right), Chair of the International Guide Dog Federation, John Gosling (fourth from right) and two ‘Mounties’ or Royal Canadian Mounted Police officers on each end at the awards ceremony.
The plaque reads, ‘For Exceptional Services to the Guide Dog Movement.’
Comment from Sam Tawada:
I have been involved with the IGDF since its founding preparatory meeting in 1986. My belief in the importance of international cooperation in the guide dog industry has stayed the same since then. In 1994, when JGDA was not yet a member, I was appointed as one of the assessors to conduct member school assessments. Up to now, I have visited 17 schools for assessments. Every time, I have brought back the initiatives and achievements of each country. I would like to continue taking steps unique to Japan in cooperation with the rest of the world.