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Discover Japan Language & Culture Program Inc. (DJLCP) is a registered non-profit organization dedicated to fostering global understanding by providing Saskatchewan students with engaging Japanese language instruction, rich cultural programming, and transformative educational opportunities.
Originally established in 2007 as the Sask Prairie Yokohama Student Exchange (SPYSE), the program began as a biennial high school exchange between students in Southern Saskatchewan and Yokohama, Japan. In 2015, the program evolved into its current format: a 100-hour Japanese Language & Culture Course paired with an optional immersive travel experience to Japan.
These two components are designed to complement one another—students build foundational language and cultural knowledge in the classroom, which they can then apply and deepen during their time abroad.
The Japanese Language and Culture Course provides students with practical communication skills and introduces them to key elements of Japanese culture, social norms, and everyday life. We maintain strong ties to both local and international Japanese communities, regularly inviting guest lecturers and hosting cultural workshops led by community members. A central highlight of the course includes the opportunity for virtual exchanges with Japanese students, giving participants the opportunity to practice their language skills and form meaningful friendships—many of which continue in person during the travel portion. The course is an approved Saskatchewan Ministry of Education Dual Credit program which allows grade 9-12 students to earn an elective credit towards their high school graduation requirements. Students who complete the course are more confident, prepared, and open to the transformative experiences that await them in Japan.
Experiencing Japan is an education in itself and the optional travel experience provides students an authentic and immersive experiences that simply cannot be replicated in the classroom. Carefully curated to provide a rich blend and balanced introduction to Japan, the trip features a blend of historic, natural, and urban highlights — from the energy and vibrance of Tokyo to the serenity of Hakone's landscapes and the cultural depths of Kyoto. From zany pop culture to Zen traditions, there's a bit of everything for students to discover in a country that is simultaneously rooted in heritage and on the forefront of global technology and innovation.
While we believe that the combination of the course and travel experience offers the most comprehensive and rewarding experience, we also understand that it may not be feasible for every family. We have welcomed student who participate in just the class, as well as those who join us only for the adventure through Japan. Our goal is to remain flexible and supportive, ensuring that students and families can engage with the program in a way that best fits their circumstances.
The Discover Japan Language & Culture Program is proudly operated by a small dedicated team of volunteers who take on multiple roles generously contributing their time, energy, and expertise to ensure every aspect of the program is thoughtfully organized, culturally respectful, and enriching for students. They are passionate about fostering intercultural understanding and creating meaningful learning opportunities for youth and it is their commitment helps keep the program affordable, inclusive, and rooted in community values! We invite you to learn a little more about each of the amazing professionals that make up our dynamic team!
André Boutin-Maloney
BA, BEd, CSLI, PdDip, MEd
Executive Director
Mr. André Boutin-Maloney is the current director of the Discover Japan Language and Culture Program Inc. and has been involved in the program since 2005 and is eager to share his love of Japan with the next generation of students! . Andre completed a Bachelor of Psychology, Bachelor of Education, and Certificate in Second Language Instruction with the University of Regina and worked in the University of Regina's English as a Second Language Department as a student Conversation Partner and Socio-Cultural Coordinator. He later completed a Professional Graduate Diploma in Distance Education Technology and Master of Education through Athabasca University.
He has been adopted into the Regina Japanese-Canadian community, by virtue of his wonderful wife, Hiromi, and their children, Noah and Amélie. His longstanding contributions to the community include serving as President of the Regina Japanese Canadian Culture Club Inc. where he played a pivotal role in establishing Regina Hibiki Taiko, the city’s traditional Japanese drumming group. He co-founding the Regina-Fujioka Friendship Committee (RAFFCOM), which was instrumental in formalizing an International City-to-City Friendship Agreement between Regina, Saskatchewan and Fujioka, Gunma in 2019.
He has served on multiple committees with the National Association of Japanese Canadians, and spearheading the creation of an International Children's Book Exchange between Regina and Fujioka to foster intercultural understanding and language learning among young people in both communities.
Professionally, Mr. Boutin-Maloney is a distinguished educator with over 23 years of experience and currently teaches at Bert Fox Community High School in Fort Qu’Appelle. His work is grounded in a deep commitment to cross-cultural understanding, environmental sustainability, and reconciliation in education. He is a passionate advocate for inclusive, hands-on learning experiences that empower students to become informed and engaged global citizens.
His contributions have been recognized through numerous awards, including the Governor General's Academic Award, Governor General's History Award for Excellence in Teaching, the Bank of Canada Museum’s Award for Excellence in Teaching Economics, and most recently honoured with the Saskatchewan Council for International Cooperation’s Global Citizen – Lifetime Achievement Award.
Kalyna Hudym
BA
Deputy Director
Kalyna Hudym is a passionate educator, intercultural ambassador, and long-time contributor to the Discover Japan Language and Culture Program (DJLCP). With over a decade of experience in youth leadership, cross-cultural programming, and language instruction, she brings a dynamic and deeply informed perspective to the classroom.
Ms. Hudym holds a Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies and Japanese from the University of Regina, where she studied Japanese language and East Asian religion. She completed a study abroad program at Tenri University in Nara, Japan where she conducted coursework in religion—delivered entirely in Japanese—while also teaching English at a private language academy.
Her leadership in promoting Japanese culture began during her time as President of the Japanese Canadian Club at the University of Regina. She worked as a cultural assistant within the University of Regina’s English as a Second Language Department and the UR International Office where she advocated for diversity, equity, and culturally awareness on campus. She also served as the Elementary Transition Facilitator with the Settlement Support Workers in Schools Program with the Regina Open Door Society Inc., where she supported newcomer students and families navigating educational transitions. She is presently employed at a major Canadian law firm and runs her own small business. Her professional background in youth leadership and employment skills training has equipped her to work effectively with diverse learners, helping students from all walks of life thrive in cross-cultural environments.
Ms. Hudym has also served as DJLCP’s language instructor since 2016, guiding students from their first introductory lessons through to their immersive travel experiences in Japan. Her teaching is guided by a holistic philosophy that bridges classroom learning with real-world cultural encounters. She is especially committed to helping Saskatchewan students from all walks of life build a working introduction to Japanese language and culture, empowering them to pursue further studies and meaningful travel abroad. As part of each trip, she plays a key role in fostering the Friendship Agreement between Regina and Fujioka, encouraging students to act as respectful and engaged cultural ambassadors.
Her commitment to lifelong learning, whether in the classroom, community, or abroad, reflects her enduring belief in the power of language, culture, and connection.
Kelly Oliver
BEd
Secretary
Kelly Oliver is a passionate mom, educator, and world traveler who brings over 15 years of experience working with youth to the Discover Japan Language and Culture Program (DJLCP). A graduate of the University of Regina with a Bachelor of Education degree, Kelly is deeply committed to helping students grow, gain confidence, and discover more about themselves.
Her journey working with youth began long before her professional career. As a student, Kelly spent her afternoons volunteering in a kindergarten classroom and served as a Sunday school teacher and summer camp leader through her church. She was also involved with the YWCA Big Sister program and tutored a young student, fulfilling volunteer commitments as part of the Duke of Edinburgh Award. These early roles laid the foundation for her lifelong dedication to supporting young people’s development.
Her love of travel has taken her to eight countries, including a transformative four-month teaching placement in Malaysia, where she worked at an all-boys high school. Earlier in life, she also traveled to the Dominican Republic on a volunteer immersion trip, learning Spanish before heading to mountain communities to help dig latrines and teach English to local children—an experience that sparked her passion for international service and personal growth.
Since 2009, Kelly has continued to serve youth in diverse and meaningful ways—as a camp counselor for children with diverse needs, coach, and substitute teacher. She is currently a Middle Years educator at Bert Fox Community High School in Fort Qu’Appelle, Saskatchewan, where she brings her energy, empathy, and creativity into every classroom.
Kelly is thrilled to be part of the DJLCP team and looks forward to helping students embrace this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. She hopes participants will not only gain a deeper understanding of Japanese culture but also grow in confidence and build lasting memories as they learn more about the world and what they are capable of.
Hiromi Isa
LLB, BAdmin, CPA
Finance
Hiromi Isa brings a rich blend of cultural, professional, and educational expertise to the Discover Japan Language and Culture Program (DJLCP). Born and raised in Kyoto, Japan, her life and career have bridged two countries and multiple disciplines, providing students with an authentic and deeply informed perspective on Japanese culture, tradition, and global citizenship.
Hiromi began her post-secondary studies in Japan, earning a Bachelor of Law and a Certificate in Teaching Social Studies from Ryukoku University in Kyoto. During this time, she participated in a Short-Term English as a Second Language (ESL) Program at the University of Regina and chose to extend her stay for an additional year to complete the university’s Regular ESL program. Her academic path later led her back to Canada, where she worked as a cultural assistant with the University of Regina's ESL Department while completing a Bachelor of Business Administration with specializations in Marketing and Accounting.
Since immigrating to Canada in 2004, Hiromi has built a multifaceted career. She managed the popular Michi Japanese Restaurant and later worked with CNT Conventions N’ Tours, strengthening her ties to both the Japanese Canadian and broader Saskatchewan communities. In 2020, she earned her designation as a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) and currently serves as a Financial Analyst – Systems and Reporting in the Financial Services Department at the University of Regina, where she brings expertise in financial systems, data analysis, and strategic reporting.
Hiromi serves as DJLCP’s financial manager, overseeing the program’s budgeting, accounting, and financial planning. Her attention to detail and financial stewardship play a vital role in ensuring the program remains sustainable, transparent, and accessible for students and families.
Beyond her professional achievements, Hiromi is a passionate advocate for cultural exchange and community engagement. She is a founding member and president of Regina Hibiki Taiko, the city’s traditional Japanese drumming group, through which she helps preserve and promote this vibrant cultural art form. She has also served on the executive of the Regina Japanese Culture Club Inc., contributing to numerous community events and initiatives that strengthen cultural understanding across generations.
Since 2018, Hiromi has played an integral role in DJLCP, offering students valuable insight into Japanese customs, language, etiquette, and daily life as they prepare for their educational journey. Her ability to bridge cultures through lived experience, professional knowledge, and a deep passion for education makes her an exceptional mentor and a cherished member of the program team.
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