Miyazaki Yu, a rising star in the Japanese entertainment industry, is set to grace the screen in the upcoming taxi commercial titled "Met Through Wantedly," which will begin airing on January 5, 2026. This commercial, produced by Wantedly, Inc., aims to highlight the importance of workplace culture and the value of connecting passionate young professionals with companies eager for growth.
In this captivating ad, Miyazaki portrays a spirited young employee who joins a web production company through the business-oriented social media platform, Wantedly. Known for her previous role as a drummer in a popular Netflix drama, she effectively embodies the idea of a fresh graduate stepping into an unfamiliar industry, showcasing her enthusiasm and determination to grow in her new workplace. The commercial not only emphasizes her personal journey but also highlights the significance of matching corporate culture with the aspirations of young professionals.
The storyline unfolds within a web production firm that has faced challenges in finding young talent. The company's CEO, keen on expanding and fostering a vibrant workplace, utilizes Wantedly to discover enthusiastic candidates eager to develop their skills. Miyazaki's character, initially struggling with a lack of practical experience in her previous job, finds solace and growth opportunities at this new company, where the open culture aligns perfectly with her aspirations.
This ad employs a mockumentary style, blending fictional elements with a realistic portrayal of the work environment. Viewers can witness the buoyant spirits of the young employees as they excel in their roles, supported by their mentors who share insights about their colleague.
In today's job market, the concept of "cultural fit" has become increasingly pivotal for job seekers. According to recent research conducted by Wantedly, an overwhelming 97% of job seekers prioritize cultural compatibility during their job searches, with 78% indicating they choose cultural fit over other employment conditions. On the employer side, 89% of hiring managers highlight this aspect as crucial during the selection process, especially for mid-level positions, where cultural alignment is often viewed as more important than specific skills.
Miyazaki Yu's recent interview complements the campaign, as she expresses her strong identification with her character's journey in the commercial. Reflecting on her own experiences, she emphasizes the importance of non-compromise in professional pursuits, citing her commitment and dedication seen while working with her band. Her insights reveal a perception that resonates with many young professionals embarking on their careers.
As she envisions her future, Miyazaki hopes to explore diverse opportunities, including potentially taking on action roles in the future. With the passion she displays in this promotion and her growth as an artist, audiences are excited to see what this talented actress will achieve next, especially in a landscape where young professionals increasingly seek meaningful work that aligns with their values and aspirations.
The commercial will be available for viewing in taxis across metropolitan Tokyo from January 5 to January 25, 2026. It is a symbolic reminder of the evolving workplace dynamics and the potential for profound connections that platforms like Wantedly can forge. By focusing on shared values rather than mere qualifications, Wantedly is shaping a new narrative on employment that champions genuine connections between talent and opportunity.
This initiative illustrates the importance of nurturing a work culture that resonates with the next generation while celebrating the stories of young talents like Miyazaki Yu who are stepping boldly into their futures. This new approach to understanding career fulfillment is not just about finding a job but also about fostering a sense of belonging and purpose in the workplace. The commercial is set to be an inspiring reminder to both aspiring professionals and companies seeking to cultivate a supportive environment for their employees.