Engaging Young Minds: International Exchange and Investment in Yamanashi's Future

On February 28, 2026, Yamanashi Prefecture, led by Governor Kōtarō Nagasaki, will host an important event at the Chateraise Hotel in Kōfu. This gathering, titled "Prefectural Ambassador Event," aims to connect the province's youth with the future of regional administration.

The primary theme revolves around the transformation of traditional international exchange from merely creating memories into a profound investment in human capital, dubbed "International Exchange 2.0." This monumental shift will showcase the tangible outcomes achieved by students dispatched to Taiwan, the United States, and China, highlighting their developmental journeys through real-life testimonials.

A central feature of the event is a special discussion between Governor Nagasaki, who has vast experience in international finance, and Yoshiki Sekino, the CEO of Imajina Co., Ltd., who has helped transform over 3,000 organizations in New York. They aim to engage in an impromptu dialogue on what Japan genuinely needs in terms of global human resource standards.

Setting the Stage for Future Learning

This 90-minute session will challenge participants and audiences alike to think about strategies for becoming both a preferred region and a preferred populace. The conversation will overlap education, economics, and Governor Nagasaki's commitment to substantial international exchange.

The session will specifically focus on how young individuals can connect their international experiences to their personal growth and the globalization of their communities. By not allowing this initiative to remain superficial, Yamanashi Prefecture is deepening economic interactions that incorporate knowledge and technologies from around the world, thereby enriching the lives of its residents.

As part of the event details, the following will be addressed:

- Date and Time: February 28, 2026, from 14:00 to 15:30 (doors open at 13:30).
- Location: Chateraise Hotel, 1-19-16 Marunouchi, Kōfu City, Yamanashi Prefecture.
- Organizers: Yamanashi Prefecture.
- Speakers: Governor Kōtarō Nagasaki, Yoshiki Sekino, and students who participated in international exchanges.

Program Highlights

The program will include:
1. Vision of New Learning: Governor Nagasaki will present why an international perspective is crucial now and discuss the essence of investing in people.
2. Impactful Before and After Presentations: Students will share dramatic transformations that occurred during their time in Taiwan, the U.S., and China, diverging from typical student report formats.
3. In-depth Discussion: A candid conversation between Governor Nagasaki and Mr. Sekino exploring the true significance of global human resources and their interrelation with corporate management, regional branding, and education.

About the Speakers

- Governor Kōtarō Nagasaki: After graduating from the University of Tokyo's Faculty of Law, he joined the Ministry of Finance (formerly the Ministry of Finance) and has served in various capacities, including studying abroad and working at the Los Angeles Consulate. He was elected to the House of Representatives for three terms before becoming the Governor of Yamanashi in 2019, promoting innovative local governance by merging international perspectives and administrative experiences.

- Yoshiki Sekino, CEO of Imajina: Originally from Kōfu City, he moved to the U.S. at 15 and founded Imajina in New York at 26, supporting Japanese companies' overseas expansions. With over 3,000 branding successes, he contributes to the revitalization of Yamanashi through his role in the Yamanashi Innovation Base and focuses on nurturing company culture and human resources.

This event is not only significant for the attendees but for the media as well, who are encouraged to capture the excitement and energy that will surely fill the room. Join us as we explore how the next generation is preparing to contribute to a globally connected future for Japan and foster economic growth in Yamanashi through international exchange.