An event called Mabi Fes was held at Kurashiki City Sonoh Elementary School on June 30, 2019.
We interviewed Kohei from the male vocal unit imim, who is from Kanagawa and planned the event.
We asked him about the challenges and joys he experienced before the event, and we will introduce his thoughts on "now" after the event.
Interview with Kohei from imim
Challenges faced in planning and holding the event
Please tell us about the challenges and difficulties you faced in holding Mabi Fes.
Kohei
At first, we thought about holding the event individually.
However, there are limits to what individuals can do to hold an event, so it was challenging to get the people of Mabi involved and engaged in a positive way.
Another challenge was promoting the event. Many of the people living in temporary housing are elderly, making it difficult for information to reach them. Additionally, those whose homes were not affected find it hard to attend.
We used creative methods to promote the event, such as posting flyers at garbage stations and collaborating with the media.
As a result, over 500 people attended, right?
Kohei
Some people couldn't fit into the gymnasium of Sonoh Elementary School, so it seems about 600 people gathered. We were very grateful for that.
Thoughts on "now" after finishing Mabi Fes
Please tell us about the good and joyful things after finishing Mabi Fes.
Kohei
For about a year, we started as volunteers and continued to support through live performances. Since we have our own music activities, we will return to Tokyo after finishing Mabi Fes.
The words "It was fun, I want you to do it again next year" were the most pleasing to hear.
I am very happy that Mabi Fes became a trigger for returning to Mabi.
In creating the event, we made decorations and signs at a nursery in Mabi, involving the people of Mabi in the preparations.
It was significant that the entire town cooperated in creating the event, rather than just individual districts of Mabi.
Thoughts on "now" one year after the heavy rain in July 2018
Can you share your thoughts on your experience visiting Mabi as a volunteer after the heavy rain in July 2018 and reflecting on the past year?
Kohei
I participated in volunteer activities in the disaster area for the first time due to the heavy rain in July 2018. What I realized by participating is that you cannot understand unless you go to the site and see it with your own eyes.
Also, each person has a different perception of "reconstruction."
Some people think that if the houses that suffered water damage are repaired, that is "reconstruction," while others think that if the school is repaired and they can attend, that is "reconstruction."
I felt that "reconstruction" is still far from being realized in just one year and that it takes time.
Now, as we leave Mabi, what we feel towards the people of Mabi is a desire for them to keep doing their best and a wish to support them.
I have also heard stories of friends increasing because of our discussions. From the people of Mabi, I learned that music is not just entertainment but can connect people.
Can you share your feelings about your future activities?
Kohei
The people of Mabi told us that seeing our activities through television and media could uplift their spirits.
So, I want to work hard in Tokyo from now on, so that the people of Mabi can see our activities and our energetic selves.
Conclusion
Covering Mabi Fes held on June 30, 2019, I was energized by the many smiles of the people of Mabi.
Even now, one year after the heavy rain in July 2018, we still see buses commuting between temporary housing and temporary schools for those whose homes and schools were affected.
As Kohei mentioned, each person has a different perception of "reconstruction." However, I still feel that reconstruction is ongoing.
There are people who were affected by the heavy rain in July 2018 who want to return to Mabi but cannot, and music has uplifted the town that has lost its color.
Just as the subtitle of the event suggests, it provided "sound, color, and smiles to Mabi."
I am truly grateful to the two members of imim for bringing smiles and energy to Mabi.
