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FWPSProud: FWHS Anime-Manga Club Takes Center Stage at Sakura-Con

FWPSProud: FWHS Anime-Manga Club Takes Center Stage at Sakura-Con

What started as a fun field trip has transformed into a platform for student voice and creative exploration. 

In April, 12 members of Federal Way High School’s Anime-Manga Club attended Sakura-Con, a major anime convention held at the Seattle Convention Center. Hosted by the Asia-Northwest Cultural Education Association, SakuraCon is the oldest and largest event of its kind in the Pacific Northwest, attracting anime fans and industry professionals from across the region. 

This year, the club reached a new milestone: for the first time, students weren’t just attendees—they were presenters. Over the course of two days, they delivered two well-researched, engaging panel presentations, drawing packed audiences and high praise from convention moderators. 

“Conventions like this can be really expensive, putting them out of reach for many students,” said club advisor Joshua Drewry. “Admission alone can run over $100, not including transportation or food. In recent years, being part of an educational group helped reduce costs, but this time, students went even further—they wanted to be contributors.” 

The club began preparing months in advance. Since November, students pitched panel ideas, gathered data, and rehearsed presentations— before knowing if their submissions would even be accepted. Their dedication paid off.

 

FWHS Anime-Manga Club scholars present at the 2025 SakuraCon

Members from Federal Way High School's Anime-Manga Club present to a captivated audience at the 2025 SakuraCon.

 

On Friday, the first group presented a meta-analysis of a popular sub-genre of anime called isekai, the Japanese term for "another world", which centers on characters who are transported to alternate worlds. The students explored the genre’s explosion since the series Sword Art Online gained popularity in Japan and the West, compared trends in new anime releases, and led a thoughtful discussion on storytelling tropes and fan expectations for the future. 

Saturday’s panel focused on perceptions of anime fans, using data collected from their peers at school to challenge stereotypes and open dialogue about what it means to be part of a fandom. Their session concluded with audience recommendations for first-time viewers—Studio Ghibli’s Howl’s Moving Castle and Castle in the Sky movies topped the list. 

Between panels, students immersed themselves in the full convention experience—meeting artists, attending workshops, and learning martial arts moves from FWHS Anime Club alumnus Ryan Le during a University of Washington Wushu demonstration.

FWHS Anime-Manga Club members enjoy SakuraCon activities.

 

“It was really a lot of fun,” shared freshman Jordan Calderson. “I was somewhat nervous beforehand, but it was easier than I expected once we got started. It was really exciting to see how everyone was excited to see and respond at our panels.” 

Fellow freshman Summer Pop echoed his feelings. “It was overall a great experience. I would definitely go again. The atmosphere was great, and the people were awesome.”  

Drewry says students are already brainstorming for next year, which is no surprise. They’ve seen firsthand what’s possible when their voices are taken seriously. Through this powerful experience, students developed planning, presentation, and leadership skills – all by leaning deeper into their interests.  

At Federal Way Public Schools, we believe learning thrives when students can explore what excites them. From clubs like the Anime-Manga Club to hands-on programs, leadership opportunities, and academic competitions, we offer a wide range of experiences to help every student find their spark and succeed. 

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