#Japan #Osaka #Deaflympics #OSP Heartful #Yamano Ei

OSP Group Employee to Compete in 2025 Deaflympics

OSF Heartful Co., a special subsidiary of the OSP Group based in Tennoji, Osaka, is proud to announce that Eiji Yamano, an employee aged 23, will be representing Japan in the men's volleyball event at the Tokyo 2025 Deaflympics. The tournament is set to be held from November 15 to November 26, making it a significant moment for both the athlete and the company.

A Commitment to Inclusion

OSP Heartful is dedicated to creating an environment where all employees, regardless of disabilities, can thrive. Their motto, "We take consideration for disabilities but do not hold back," reflects their mission to leverage the unique abilities of each individual to create a workplace where everyone can succeed. With numerous employees with disabilities, the company has established a supportive culture that emphasizes understanding and encouragement.

Yamano, whose athletic journey began in first year of junior high school at a school for the deaf, reflects the values that OSP promotes. After experiencing a crushing loss against hearing players, he was motivated by kind words from opponents, leading him to dedicate even more energy to his training. This dedication paid off when he represented Japan for the first time in the Deaf Volleyball World Championships 2024, where the team placed sixth.

In his own words, Yamano stated: "It’s rare to find a workplace that is so understanding of disabilities and makes work enjoyable. I feel grateful to everyone who supports me. I want to win in this tournament, especially since it’s the first time we’re hosting it in Japan, and I hope to bring a medal back to show my appreciation."

Comprehensive Support for Yamano

To ensure that Yamano can focus on his training, OSP Heartful has arranged his work schedule to accommodate extended leave leading up to and during the tournament. Additionally, they are keen to minimize his overtime hours to allow him to attend training sessions after work.

This commitment to facilitating Yamano's journey is reflective of the company’s broader goals. OSP Heartful continues to strive for a workplace where both employees and athletes can excel in their respective fields.

Fostering an Empowering Environment

The company’s initiatives over the past three years have resulted in a 100% retention rate. Some notable programs include:

• - Regular sign language classes for all employees.
• - Visible skill sheets that outline and enhance work skills.
• - Reducing physically demanding tasks and optimizing workflows to lessen physical strain.
• - Monitoring employee health and mood upon arrival to work.

These efforts illustrate OSP Heartful’s belief in the potential of all their employees. Their engagement fosters a climate of inclusivity, enabling each person to contribute meaningfully.

2025 Deaflympics Overview

The Deaflympics, organized by the International Committee of Sports for the Deaf (ICSD) serves as a premier event for athletes with hearing impairments. The 2025 event marks a historic first in Japan as it celebrates its 100th anniversary.

• - Dates: November 15-26, 2025
• - Participating Countries: 70-80
• - Estimated Participants: 6,000, including around 3,000 athletes
• - Number of Sports: 21

Volleyball Event Specifics

In the volleyball events, innovative communication methods are used to ensure auditory information is effectively relayed to players. These include hand signals from referees and shaking the net to inform competitors of calls such as out or touch violations.

• - Schedule: November 16-25
• - Venue: Komazawa Olympic Park General Sports Ground Gymnasium, Setagaya, Tokyo

About OSP Heartful

Established in 2019, OSP Heartful employs 48 staff members, out of which 29 are individuals with disabilities. They’ve earned several accolades for their efforts, including recognition from the Ministry of Health and Labor for their exemplary employment practices regarding persons with disabilities.

Company Overview

• - Location: OSP Ajihara Building, 13-21 Ajihara-cho, Tennoji-ku, Osaka
• - CEO: Motoki Nasu
• - Industry: Management of printing plate manufacturing and light office work
• - Website: OSP Heartful

As the Tokyo 2025 Deaflympics approaches, OSP Heartful is not just supporting Yamano on his journey but also exemplifying how businesses can embrace diversity and inclusion, setting a powerful example for others to follow.