#Japan #Tokyo #Empowerment #International Women's Day #HAPPY WOMAN

Celebrating Ten Years of Empowerment

On March 5, 2026, the HAPPY WOMAN AWARD ceremony took place at the TOKYO FM Hall in Hanzomon, Tokyo, marking the 10th anniversary of the HAPPY WOMAN FESTA. This significant event celebrated women who have made impactful contributions to female empowerment and gender equality.

The ceremony saw approximately 600 attendees gather in a venue adorned with the symbol color of happiness, known as "HAPPY YELLOW". This vibrant atmosphere reflected the warmth and hope for the future that the event aimed to inspire.

Message from the Chairman

Koichi Ogawa, Chairman of the HAPPY WOMAN Executive Committee, opened the ceremony by reflecting on the journey of the HAPPY WOMAN FESTA over the past decade. He expressed gratitude to all those who have supported the movement, stating, "Ten years ago, we took a small step, but now we have extended International Women's Day into a significant social movement in Japan. The past decade was a time for changing awareness. Moving forward, we aim to create a society where everyone, regardless of gender, can shine as their true selves. The recipients being honored today are indeed pioneers in this movement."

What is the HAPPY WOMAN AWARD?

The HAPPY WOMAN AWARD recognizes individuals and organizations that contribute to the promotion of women’s empowerment and gender equality, making a positive impact on society.

Individual Awardees

HAPPY WOMAN Award

• - Anmika (Model, Actor, Singer)

Anmika shared her philosophy, stating, "Light becomes meaningful especially when there is darkness. I believe in creating a society where everyone can live authentically, respecting each other's differences."

LEGEND Award

• - Natsuko Toda (Film Subtitle Translator)

Natsuko reflected on her life, saying, "Born during a time of war, I have witnessed significant changes in the status of women. It is essential to follow the path you love, without worrying about others' opinions."

WELL-BEING IMPACT Award

• - Reiko Shiota (Former Badminton National Representative / Sports Commentator)

Reiko discussed her journey of self-discovery after retirement, emphasizing the importance of contributing her experiences positively to society.

NEXT GENERATION Award

• - Suzu Yamanouchi (Talent / Actor)

Suzu shared her experiences in the entertainment industry, emphasizing self-acceptance over public approval.

SOCIAL IMPACT Award

• - Megumi Ishimoto (Director of Women's Eye)

Megumi highlighted her work with female survivors in the Tohoku disaster, advocating for women’s voices in decision-making.

CHANGE MAKER Award

• - Mayuko Igarashi (Online Snack Yokocho CEO)

Mayuko discussed how she uses Japanese snack culture to connect and inspire people across generations.

Corporate Awardees

HAPPY WOMAN BRAND Award

• - Ajinomoto AGF, Yuki Kimura

The company has focused on supporting women's health through product development that considers female employees' needs.

SOCIAL IMPACT Award

• - SS Pharmaceutical, Kaiha Wang

Their EVE brand continues to support women’s health, addressing social issues that women face in their careers.

WORKSTYLE INNOVATION Award

• - Panasonic, Kimiko Inoue

Panasonic aims to improve women's well-being through health navigation services tailored for women.

PARTNERSHIP Award

• - Eisai Co., Eriko Naito

Eisai has been involved in activities supporting women's health and gender equality through their brands.

PIONEER Award

• - Hollywood Beauty Group, Emi Tomiyama

For over a century, this group has worked to empower women in Japan through beauty culture.

Looking Forward

Concluding the event, all awardees gathered on stage to celebrate with enthusiastic applause. A backdrop of yellow mimosa flowers symbolized the gratitude for the past ten years and the shared aspiration for a happy future.

The HAPPY WOMAN initiative has successfully turned International Women's Day into a catalyzing force for social change, emphasizing empowerment and equality. Looking ahead, the movement establishes a vision of a society where everyone can live freely and authentically beyond gender and generational boundaries.

As we continue this journey, the HAPPY WOMAN FESTA has reached every corner of Japan, celebrating women’s empowerment and gender equality in 29 prefectures to date. In 2026, the movement expands to nine cities and eleven venues, embodying an ongoing commitment to fostering a better future for all.

Event Overview

• - Event Name: HAPPY WOMAN AWARD 2026
• - Date: March 5, 2026
• - Venue: TOKYO FM Hall, Chiyoda Ward, Tokyo
• - Organizer: HAPPY WOMAN Executive Committee
• - Sponsors: Chocolat BB, Adelan, L'Occitane, Hollywood Beauty Group, Morinaga Confectionery, Morinaga Dairy Products, among others.
• - Supporters: United Nations University (UNU), UN Information Centre, UN Development Programme (UNDP), and various government and local organizations.
• - Official Website: HAPPY WOMAN