#London #United Kingdom #Microsoft Japan #Mindful Career Partner #Code Without Barriers

Empowering Women's Careers in the Age of AI

In a groundbreaking initiative, Mindful Career Partner, led by Reiko Fujita and based in London, has officially partnered with Microsoft Japan to support the development of women digital talents through the program called Code; Without Barriers in Japan (CWBJ). On October 1, 2025, an online seminar titled "Becoming a Change Ally! Career Mindset Course for the AI Era" will be held, focusing on the prevalent career anxieties that many face in today's dynamic work environment.

Reiko Fujita’s unique program, the Heart OS Update Program, aims to cultivate self-efficacy in participants, showcasing the importance of psychological resilience in overcoming challenges in one’s career journey.

The Background of the Collaboration: Bridging Cultures and Empowering Women

As AI continues to revolutionize workplaces, countless women find themselves facing profound uncertainties about their careers. In Japan, structural challenges arise particularly for women who leave the workforce due to childbirth or relocation. According to statistics, women occupy only about 15% of managerial positions, and there exists a 21% wage gap between genders. This significantly contrasts with OECD averages, where female managers make up 34% and wage disparity stands at 12%.

Perhaps more daunting than a lack of skills is the psychological barrier of self-doubt that looms over many individuals.

In contrast, the UK has developed labor policies that support workforce flexibility. For instance, as of April 2024, the Right to Request Flexible Working legislation allows all employees to request flexible working arrangements from day one of their employment. Additionally, the introduction of the Lifelong Learning Entitlement in 2027 guarantees lifelong educational opportunities for all.

This innovative culture, which emphasizes self-expression and values individuality from a young age, fosters confidence and psychological resources essential for career advancement. Such supportive institutions are crucial, enabling women to navigate life events without interrupting their careers, subsequently nurturing an active job market.

The Unique Value and Vision of Mindful Career Partner

Reiko Fujita brings extensive experience from her tenure in multinational corporations in Japan, marked by roles in management, international assignments, and the complexities of balancing work and family life. The Heart OS Update Program, grounded in her personal career transformations, seeks to empower participants to believe in their capabilities while driving improvements in overall productivity and resilience within Japanese society.

Research from the OECD concludes that resolving gender gaps in labor participation and working hours could elevate the GDP of OECD nations by an average of 9.2% by the year 2060.

Code; Without Barriers in Japan Explained

This initiative by Microsoft aims to build a more inclusive society where technology aids in resolving Japan's societal challenges. The Code; Without Barriers program provides free access to learning opportunities in advanced technologies, such as Generative AI, helping individuals enhance their skills while also encouraging a robust representation of women in the digital workforce.

For registration and more information, visit the official site: Microsoft Code Without Barriers

About Reiko Fujita & Mindful Career Partner

Reiko Fujita, after graduating from a university in London, amassed over 20 years of experience working in global finance and cosmetics firms in Japan, with a notable 12 years in leadership roles. Her journey has been shaped by experiences such as managing family life, extensive travel, and entrepreneurship. Following the establishment of Mindful Career Partner in November 2024, she has dedicated her efforts to empower more than 50 women, advocating for a shift from seeking a singular “correct career path” to crafting their individual definitions of success. As she states, “It's time to draw your own conclusions and choose a career that resonates with you.”

Visit the company website for further details: Mindful Career Partner

Media Inquiries

For further inquiries or requests for interviews, please contact:
Mindful Career Partner
Attn: Reiko Fujita
Email: [email protected]

References

1. Cabinet Office, “Gender Equality White Paper (2024 Edition)”
2. OECD Gender Data Portal, “Women in Employment and Leadership Positions”
3. UK Government, “Right to Request Flexible Working”
4. OECD, “Closing Gender Gaps Boosts GDP”