Transforming Differences into Strengths: Akima's Speech at WSJ Awards

On May 28, 2025, the Wall Street Journal hosted the "The Future of Everything" conference in New York, where La torche's president, Sanae Akima, received the prestigious "Next Era Cognitive Science Innovation Award." This article reveals the full text of her insightful speech, emphasizing the vital transformation of differences into strengths.

Overcoming the Fear of Differences

Akima’s speech encapsulates a central theme: the fear of differences must not hold us back but should empower us instead. She intertwines personal experiences with cognitive science principles, aiming to inspire leaders and individuals in an increasingly diverse era characterized by the rise of artificial intelligence.

During her time in New York in 2002, shortly after the September 11 attacks, Akima confronted the palpable fear of the unknown. This experience ignited her inquiry into understanding why humans harbor fear towards differences, setting the stage for her explorations across neuroscience, leadership, education, and international development.

“Our brains are designed to protect us. But if we always follow our brain’s default mode, we stay in fear. And fear blocks connection, growth, and leadership.” This profound insight highlights how our innate survival instincts can hinder our ability to connect with others and evolve as leaders.

Understanding Brain Management

Akima's innovative concept of "Brain Management" goes far beyond traditional self-help strategies or time management techniques. It focuses on cultivating awareness of unconscious reactions, enabling individuals and organizations to make intentional choices. This practice is being implemented not just in Japan but also in emerging economies in Africa, showcasing its versatility and global relevance.

Recognizing Human-Centered Change

The WSJ praised Akima's methodologies for their emphasis on internal transformations as critical for societal evolution, especially amidst ongoing changes in AI, sustainability, and workplace reforms. The award recognizes individuals and organizations that effectively leverage cognitive science principles to instigate meaningful change, illustrating Akima’s techniques’ high adaptability across various fields such as education, business, healthcare, and international relations.

A Vision for Collaborative Transformation

In closing her speech, Akima expressed a powerful vision for the future: “Let us build a world where differences are not a reason to fear—but a chance to grow.” Inspired by this vision, La torche aims to expand its model of transformation support, starting with a focus on understanding the mind's power.

As part of this vision, La torche is launching several international initiatives:

- Pre-order availability for the English version of the book, "Brain Management," is now open on Amazon.
- The official global website has been launched, featuring resources and insights on Brain Management.
- Akima is also building international networks and sharing valuable information through LinkedIn.

Additionally, a special feature article by the Wall Street Journal is set to be published on August 1, 2025, further highlighting Akima's contributions and methodologies.

About La torche

La torche's mission is to foster autonomous, transformational leaders through its unique approach that integrates insights from neuroscience, social psychology, education, and business reform. Operating as an "Authenticity Agency," La torche promotes:

- Programs: Self-management initiatives for individuals.
- Platform: Collaborative dialogue and practical settings for training and community engagement.
- Prototyping: Support for implementation in organizations, education, and international cooperation.

La torche is ideal for organizations facing challenges in fully adopting digital transformation or seeking to cultivate autonomous thinkers within their teams. Through their innovative methodologies, they aim to create sustainable transformations that truly resonate within the human experience.

For more information or inquiries:

- Company Name: La torche Inc.
- Location: 27th Floor, Tokyo Sankei Building, Otemachi 1-7-2, Chiyoda, Tokyo
- Founded: May 18, 2017
- CEO: Sanae Akima
- Business Activities: Supporting the empowerment of autonomous individuals, fostering authenticity in organizations, and promoting sustainability transformations.

Company Website | Book Website