#Japan #Tokyo #Skylight Consulting #VISI-ONE #Global Leadership Camp

First Japan-held Global Leadership Camp for Visually Impaired People

In an extraordinary move towards inclusivity, Skylight Consulting, based in Minato, Tokyo, proudly sponsored the 3rd Global Leadership Camp for Visually Impaired People, organized by the VISI-ONE Innovation Hub from March 13 to 19, 2026. This year marked a significant shift as the camp was held in Japan for the very first time, focusing on the development of specific programs tailored to local needs, with the support of various Japanese companies and organizations.

Background and Overview

The Global Leadership Camp serves as an international initiative aimed at improving and transforming the social environments for people with visual impairments across different countries and regions. This program seeks to identify and nurture future leaders who will champion the rights of visually impaired individuals. Previously held in Madrid, Spain, the first two iterations of the camp in March and November 2024, the event now embraces the opportunity to cater to the unique context of Japan.

This exceptional gathering featured seven participants from six countries: Australia, Italy, France, Ethiopia, Ghana, and Japan. Over the course of a week, attendees engaged in lectures, experiential workshops, and fieldwork, immersing themselves in the necessary qualities and skills required of a leader while also developing their personal action plans, referred to as "My Project."

Key Program Activities

A notable highlight of the camp was a two-day retreat themed around shared experiences, where visually impaired participants and sighted individuals lived and worked together. Through physical team-building exercises and workshops focusing on social problem-solving, both groups tackled similar challenges, fostering understanding and collaboration.

Additionally, participants teamed up with counterparts from Japan to envision a decade-long vision for their projects, encouraging the sharing of ideas and perspectives. As part of the fieldwork segment, participants donned the Ashirase vibration navigation device, allowing them to experience walking through Tokyo, while also visiting the Miraikan, Japan's National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation, to interact with AI suitcase technology.

On the final day, an open presentation was held, inviting a Japanese audience to witness participants showcase their respective projects. This culminated in dynamic exchanges and active questioning, promising to further enrich the participants' experiences.

At the end of the program, participants were awarded certificates by Skylight's CEO, Toshiaki Habutsu, and a networking event served to foster deeper connections among attendees.

Participant Feedback

Feedback from attendees reflected the transformative nature of the camp. One participant remarked, "The program was incredibly well-structured, combining theory, practice, and real experiences."

Another shared insights on leadership, stating, "While I had experience in leadership roles, I now realize that it is more about mindset than just a position. Understanding the nuances of responsibility and influence has broadened my perspective."

Others expressed excitement about future gatherings, highlighting the importance of revisiting projects and sharing experiences from a leadership lens after several years. One participant noted, "I aspire to hold a 'Reflection Camp' in five years to reconnect and discuss how we've evolved in our leadership journeys."

The rich diversity of backgrounds and experiences represented at the camp also drove home the lesson that, despite differing situations or languages, the core elements of building effective teams and friendships remain remarkably consistent.

Skylight's Involvement

Skylight's sponsorship stems from its commitment to solving visual impairment issues. As a founding member of the VISI-ONE Innovation Hub, the company strives to facilitate collaborations that address social challenges effectively, blending problem-solving with business engagement. Their significant contributions to the camp have been recognized, earning them a designation from the Japan Sports Agency as a “Sport Yell Company” in the parasports category this past March.

Throughout the camp, Skylight participated in all aspects of planning and operations, from setting objectives and overall scheduling to managing budgets and logistical arrangements. In addition to these preparations, the company provided comprehensive support in facilitating sessions and ensuring the program’s successful execution.

About VISI-ONE Innovation Hub

Established in September 2024, VISI-ONE Innovation Hub aims to tackle visual impairment challenges through a collaborative platform. Embracing a range of stakeholders including businesses, investors, researchers, and technology developers, the initiative seeks to drive innovations and foster new business ventures focused on various visual issues. For more details, visit VISI-ONE.

Contact Skylight Consulting

• - Headquarters: 2-17-7 Akasaka, Minato, Tokyo, 107-0052, Japan
• - Established: March 10, 2000
• - CEO: Toshiaki Habutsu
• - Website: Skylight Consulting

For inquiries regarding this event, please contact Skylight Consulting Public Relations at [email protected].

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