By Chikara Ushiki | Associate
On April 27, 2025, Ashoka Japan held its 15th annual “We Are the Change” event—a powerful day where young changemakers and their adult allies come together to celebrate youth-led social innovation. Over 60 participants joined us in person, creating an atmosphere of vibrant energy, mutual learning, and collective hope.
Youth Venture Panel
Three inspiring young candidates presented their social initiatives in front of a panel of four judges: a journalist, an educator, a social entrepreneur, and a finance professional. Each youth spoke with passion about their project and personal motivation to drive social change.
Following the presentations, two of the candidates were officially selected as new Ashoka Youth Venturers.
One is a high school senior leading an NGO that supports street children in Tanzania, aspiring to become a doctor-entrepreneur who can bring both medical and business solutions to communities in Africa.
The other is the founder of a “Sign Language Café” project, organizing inclusive events in both Fukushima and Tokyo where people of all ages and abilities can casually experience sign language—working toward a society that is truly accessible to everyone.
2024 Youth Venturer Showcase & Breakout Sessions
After a short break, three current Youth Venturers shared the progress of their year-long projects. Participants then moved into smaller breakout sessions, where they engaged directly with the youth leaders in lively Q&A and deeper conversation around their learnings and challenges.
Intergenerational Dialogue: “The Future of Education in Japan”
In our intergenerational session, youth and adults watched a short excerpt from a globally acclaimed documentary capturing everyday life inside a Japanese elementary school. Using the film as a starting point, mixed-age groups reflected on both the strengths and underlying questions around Japanese education system. At the end, each group shared their key insights in a full-room reflection.
Looking Ahead
To our supporters: thank you for standing with us. This work is only possible because of your generosity and belief in young people!
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