#Japan #Tokyo #Caregiving Contest #National Council of Welfare #Essay Awards

The 18th Annual Caregiving Essay and Photo Contest Results

The National Council of Welfare Facilities for the Elderly, based in Tokyo, recently concluded its 18th Annual Caregiving Essay and Photo Contest, receiving an impressive total of 1,950 submissions. Under the leadership of President Tomoko Ooyama, this contest not only showcases the creativity of participants but also highlights significant perspectives on the joys and challenges of caregiving.

Contest Overview

Essay and Essay Section

The essay submissions were capped at 1,200 words, evaluated by a panel that included distinguished essayist Yoko Kishimoto among others. Participants expressed their experiences and insights into caregiving, with reflections that touched the hearts of readers and judges alike.

Photo Section

In the photography category, entries were accepted in JPEG format with a size limit of 10MB. Esteemed photographer and caregiver Mayumi Yamada served as a judge for this section. The theme for both categories was focused on discovering the charms and joys found in caregiving.

Application Period

• - Deadline for Submissions: July 15, 2025 to September 30, 2025
• - Eligibility: Open to all, regardless of nationality, gender, age, or profession.

Award-Winning Works

Adult Category Awards

For the general category of the essay section, notable winners include:

• - Grand Prize: “Memories Fill My Heart” by Mr. Okumura from Kyoto.
• - Excellence Awards:

- “A Ray of Light in Caregiving” by Mr. Shibata from Kumamoto.
- “What Caregiving Has Taught Me” by Ms. Fukada from Saitama.

Additionally, the photo section recognized the following submissions:

• - Grand Prize: “In Between Farming Tasks” by Ms. aym from Saitama.
• - Excellence Awards:

- “Playful Transformations of Autumn” by Mr. Teramoto from Kyoto.
- “Always by Your Side” by Ms. niko from Saitama.

Youth Category Awards

In the youth division for those under 18, standout pieces were:

• - Grand Prize: “Smiles in My Memories” by Mr. Hamada from Kagoshima.
• - Encouragement Awards:

- “The Promise of That Day” by Mr. Hirai from Hyogo,
- “My Caregiving Experience” by Mr. Azuma from Kagoshima.

Additional Categories

The contest also included a special category for short film reflection papers, where the top prize went to “Cycle of Caregiving” by Mr. Patria Kakara Rain Palenyo from Fukui. The school and facility awards recognized educational institutions and welfare facilities making a positive impact in the community.

Organizational Information

The National Council of Welfare Facilities for the Elderly has been at the forefront of enhancing elderly welfare in Japan since its establishment in 1962. It conducts extensive research, training, and awareness initiatives aimed at improving the quality of care for the elderly. The Council is located in Chiyoda, Tokyo, and can be reached at the contact details provided below:

• - Address: 2-7-1 Hirakawacho, Chiyoda, Tokyo
• - Phone: 03-5211-7700
• - Website: http://www.roushikyo.or.jp

Contest Inquiries

For any questions related to the contest, individuals may contact the contest administration at:

• - Phone: 03-5405-2063 (Weekdays 10:00 am - 5:00 pm)
• - Email: [email protected]

In summary, this contest underscores the importance of caregiving and the personal narratives surrounding it. It is a celebration of creativity and heartfelt experiences that come together to foster appreciation and understanding within our society.