#Japan #community revitalization #Hokuei Town #Work Design Lab

Work Design Lab Designated as a Supported Living Corporation

In a significant development for regional revitalization, Work Design Lab, a general incorporated association based in Chuo Ward, Tokyo, has been designated as a "Supported Living Corporation" by Hokuei Town in Tottori Prefecture. This recognition highlights the organization's commitment to facilitating sustainable growth in local communities by bridging urban resources with rural areas.

Background of the Initiative

As Japan grapples with declining populations and an aging society, the importance of attracting talent from outside the region has become paramount. Work Design Lab has actively worked to create opportunities for urban residents to engage with Hokuei Town through various projects aimed at fostering a "relationship population." These initiatives include the Tourism Ambassador Project targeting metropolitan residents and coordination activities for multiple jobholders, in addition to promoting public relations events in Tokyo. This new designation empowers Work Design Lab to reinforce its efforts to support individuals considering a move or settlement in Hokuei Town, providing them with essential information and consultation.

Activities Promoting Dual Residence in Hokuei Town

Tourism Ambassador Program

Work Design Lab's Tourism Ambassador program offers a three-day, two-night engagement for metropolitan individuals certified as Hokuei Town Tourism Ambassadors. This program aims to strengthen ties between participants and Hokuei Town by exploring new connection avenues that promote not only tourism but also business matching and collaborations that stem from participants’ aspirations and partnerships found within the community, thus encouraging entrepreneurship and multiple careers.

Events in Partnership with Hokuei Town Chamber of Commerce

The organization has also hosted events under the theme "Regional Joint Learning and Co-Creation Platform." These events connect individuals and organizations, breaking traditional boundaries to foster collaboration toward creating a better future. This initiative seeks to instill local engagement and highlight the vibrant developments currently underway in Hokuei Town.

Comments from Hokuei Town Mayor Toshiki Tejima

Mayor Tejima expressed his heartfelt joy and support for Work Design Lab's designation as a Supported Living Corporation. He highlighted that Hokuei Town has entered an exciting phase with the recent opening of the 'Roadside Station Houjou' and the renovation of the 'Aoyama Gosho Memorial Hall.' The Mayor emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts between diverse individuals and organizations to enhance community development. With the significant contributions of Work Design Lab already visible, such as the engagement of tourism ambassadors, he anticipates a fruitful partnership focused on supporting dual residency and bridging aspirations between urban and rural areas.

Comments from Takashi Ishikawa, CEO of Work Design Lab

In response to the designation, Takashi Ishikawa expressed deep gratitude for the collaboration with Hokuei Town over the years. He acknowledged the area’s natural beauty, including its stunning coastlines and agricultural richness, as well as the town's warm and welcoming disposition towards new ideas and individuals. Work Design Lab is dedicated to creating practical communities driven by individual challenges. They aim to accelerate collaborative actions that combine local resources with external talent, aspiring to position this model as a prototype for sustainable regional revitalization.

About Work Design Lab

Founded in August 2013, Work Design Lab envisions a society filled with vibrant adults inspiring children to dream about their future. The organization undertakes various projects nationwide for businesses and local governments, manages a community for new business leaders across organizations, and conducts study sessions for individuals involved in multiple job careers. With around 250 members, including dedicated professionals working across different sectors, this community embodies the concept of practical, problem-solving initiatives.

For more information, please visit Work Design Lab's website. If you have any inquiries, reach out to the public relations contact at [email protected].