GAP Team
Mitsuhiro 'Hiro' Iwamoto
Founder&President
He is a Japanese-born acupuncturist and accomplished sailor who, despite losing his sight at 16, became the first blind person to complete a nonstop Pacific Ocean crossing. In 2019, alongside navigator Doug Smith, he sailed from San Diego to Fukushima, covering approximately 8,700 miles in 55 days.
This remarkable journey aimed to raise funds for charitable causes, including efforts to prevent diseases that cause blindness. Iwamoto’s resilience and dedication to overcoming challenges inspire many worldwide. He continues to advocate for the potential within every individual, regardless of disability.
This remarkable journey aimed to raise funds for charitable causes, including efforts to prevent diseases that cause blindness. Iwamoto’s resilience and dedication to overcoming challenges inspire many worldwide. He continues to advocate for the potential within every individual, regardless of disability.
Akinobu 'Aki' Sogabe
Vice President
As a golf coach with over 25 years of experience in San Diego, Aki is passionate about helping people grow—not just as golfers, but as individuals.
In addition to his coaching career, Aki served as president of the San Diego Japanese Business Association for five years and the San Diego Business Group for two years, demonstrating his dedication to fostering community and professional connections.
Aki has known Hiro for over 12 years, and their friendship has been a source of inspiration. Encouraged by Hiro, Aki took on the challenge of triathlons and has since completed 15 races.
Global Arigato Project (GAP)
GAP is a nonprofit organization with 501(c)(3) status, established in July 2023.
