Celebrating the Recipients of the 2025 Citizen of the Year Award in Japan

2025 Citizen of the Year Award - Honoring Exceptional Community Contributors

The Citizen Watch Co., Ltd., based in Nishi-Tokyo, Japan, recently held a selection committee meeting on January 5 to announce the recipients of the prestigious 2025 Citizen of the Year Award. This annual accolade, sponsored by the company since 1990, celebrates individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to civil society, marking its 36th anniversary this year. Each awardee receives a cash prize of 1 million yen and a Citizen watch.

Award Recipients

The winners include:

Kazunaga and Kiyomi Okita from Gifu City, Gifu Prefecture

This dedicated couple is recognized for their extensive volunteer work in helping young people from Myanmar, including teaching the Japanese language and providing support for studying abroad and employment opportunities. They wish to contribute to a peaceful future for Myanmar.

Futaba no Kai from Sendai City, Miyagi Prefecture

A local organization that has been delivering heartfelt, homemade meals to elderly residents for over 30 years. Their daily check-ins help ensure the well-being of the community’s older population.

The NPO Kodomo Support Station Taneto Shizuku from Nishinomiya City, Hyogo Prefecture

A group that provides crucial support to single-parent families facing economic challenges, creating safe spaces for children and fostering community connections.

Kazunaga and Kiyomi Okita - A Heartfelt Mission

At the forefront of community service, Kazunaga Okita (75) and his wife Kiyomi Okita (67) have dedicated their lives to supporting young individuals from Myanmar who come to Japan seeking opportunities. Their connection to Myanmar began in 2012 when Kazunaga, after retiring as a teacher, took on the role of principal at the Yangon Japanese School through a senior dispatch program. Kiyomi accompanied him, and together they taught Japanese language classes, fostering an encouraging educational environment.

After noting the eager enthusiasm among the youth in Myanmar, Kiyomi established the Myanmar Japan Business Development (MJBD), a Japanese language and computer school that facilitates job opportunities with Japanese companies operating in Myanmar. What began as a small initiative in their home quickly expanded due to the overwhelming demand from young learners, leading them to secure larger facilities.

Upon returning to Japan in 2015, Kazunaga remained committed to supporting students. Initially, Kiyomi continued her work in Myanmar but eventually returned to Japan due to the pandemic and political upheaval in Myanmar. Their focus shifted to providing educational and employment support from Japan, collaborating with agencies in Myanmar to help students transition to studying and working abroad.

Kazunaga primarily teaches Japanese online, while Kiyomi manages administrative tasks. They have supported over 100 students, empowering them to pursue careers in various sectors including caregiving, construction, and agriculture—areas where the skills of Myanmar's youth are highly valued in Japan.

Futaba no Kai - Nourishing Community Connections

In Miyagi Prefecture, Futaba no Kai has been on a mission to reduce isolation among the elderly through its meal delivery services. Established in 1995, this organization started with modest events but quickly grew due to demand, now distributing around 445,000 meals over 30 years.

Their approach emphasizes home-cooked meals, adhering to quality standards and seasonal ingredients. Each meal is thoughtfully prepared, keeping the cultural aspect of home dining alive, while ensuring direct interaction between the volunteers and the recipients, further promoting community bonds and wellness checks.

Taneto Shizuku - A Shelter for Vulnerable Youth

Founded by Yoko Yamato in 2022, Taneto Shizuku plays an invaluable role in aiding single-parent families and children facing economic hardships in Nishinomiya. Their programs focus on providing direct household assistance, creating safe environments for youth to thrive, and fostering connections among individuals and organizations committed to similar causes.

The NPO has quickly evolved to offer crucial support services, responding to immediate needs while addressing long-term challenges faced by single-parent households.

Conclusion

The 2025 Citizen of the Year Award shines a light on these exceptional individuals and organizations that exemplify the spirit of community support and resilience. Each story represents a commitment to enhancing the lives of others, reminding us of the power of collective action in fostering a better society.

For more information, visit the official Citizen of the Year website.