#Japan #Tokyo #SDGs #Asahi Earth #SASS2025

Introduction

The Asahi Shimbun Company, under the leadership of CEO Katsuhito Tsunoda, has announced the introduction of the Asahi Earth Conference Award. This award will recognize exceptional entries from the #SASS2025 (Sustainability Award for High School Students), a student-led video competition encouraging young people to consider Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through creative expression.

Background

The #SASS2025 initiative aims to inspire high school students by providing them with a platform to create videos centered on SDGs and sustainability. Launched in the 2020 academic year, this year marks the sixth iteration of the competition, which showcased an impressive total of 234 entries from 735 participants in the 2024 academic year. Led by university students from various institutions, including Keio University and Waseda University, the organizing committee is associated with Anchor, a non-profit organization focused on career education based in Tokyo.

The Award

The Asahi Earth Conference Award will be awarded to two standout videos that effectively address the theme of "The Future of Diversity." This year's contest aims to provoke thought regarding the future of a society that accommodates diverse individuals, incorporating various nationalities, races, and disabilities. In addition, the winners will receive prizes including Amazon gift cards worth ¥25,000, Moleskine notebooks, mobile fans, and portable chargers. Entries for this prestigious award will be accepted starting November 1 at the official #SASS2025 website (link here).

Engaging Young Minds

As part of the #SASS2025, the organizing students are actively involved in sessions at the Asahi Earth Conference 2025. On October 24, a session entitled "Prescriptions for a Connected and Shared Future in the '8-Gake Society'" will showcase young voices discussing Japan's future amidst an anticipated workforce decline. The event aims to facilitate discussions amongst participants regarding diverse perspectives on societal advancement.

Scheduled Events

Attendees wishing to participate in the afternoon event can apply through the official conference website (link here). Note that registration will close on October 15 at 17:00. Only the first 80 individuals who apply on-site will receive tickets for the after-event.

Relevant Sessions

The Asahi Earth Conference will cover various subthemes, including sustainability, international relations, innovation, and diversity. Notable sessions consist of:

• - A View of the World through Kohei Saito's Eyes – A presentation examining Japan's rightward shift and populism.
• - Caring for 'Division': Conversation Futures from Indonesian Culture – An online session focusing on dialogue and inclusivity.
• - Confronting Lookism: How Do You Relate to Appearance? – A discourse exploring societal views on physical appearance.
• - Soundless Worlds, Soundless Sports: Considerations from the Deaflympics – A panel discussing insights from the Deaflympics about accessibility in sports.

Conclusion

The Asahi Earth Conference is set for October 24-25, 2025, at the Tokyo Midtown Yaesu Conference, with online sessions from October 27-31. The event emphasizes the importance of youth engagement and dialogue around crucial global issues. Participants are encouraged to join and contribute their perspectives to shape a more inclusive future. For further information, contact the Asahi Earth Conference secretariat via email at [email protected].