#Japan #Tokyo #Bestiee #AI Challengers #河野太郎

AI Challengers Fest: Shaping the Future of AI Talent in Japan

On December 21, 2025, Tokyo saw the convergence of the brightest young minds in technology at the highly anticipated AI Challengers Fest. Organized by bestiee, this event brought together 150 university students from top institutions including the University of Tokyo, Keio University, and Tokyo University of Science. With a mission to empower the AI-native generation, the fest focused on connecting ambitious students with industry leaders to cultivate skills suited for the AI-driven future.

An Atmosphere of Inspiration and Learning

Held at the vibrant GMO Yours - Fukurasu in Shibuya, the festival was filled with excitement from the start. The event kicked off with a keynote discussion featuring Taro Kono, a former Minister of Digital Affairs, who shared insights on how to thrive in the era of AI. The discussion was followed by a dynamic panel featuring prominent figures like Takumi Yobinori, a renowned educational YouTuber, and engineers from major companies including SoftBank, GMO Internet Group, and DeNA. The theme of the dialogue emphasized the importance of proactivity: “Don’t let AI use you; instead, utilize AI to its fullest.” Such candid discussions fueled the energy of the attendees, making the event a substantial success.

Engaging with Industry Leaders

In the latter half of the festival, students engaged directly with representatives from six leading companies, including GMO Internet Group, PKSHA Technology, and Amazon Web Services Japan. Unlike traditional career fairs, the environment was more intimate, encouraging in-depth conversations and networking opportunities. Students expressed their gratitude for having ample time for personal interactions, leading to valuable insights regarding what today's companies seek in potential hires.

Student Feedback

Many attendees shared their positive experiences:

• - A.S. from the University of Tokyo remarked, “I was very satisfied with the time I spent talking to industry professionals.”
• - I.K. from Tokyo University of Science noted, “The panel discussions provided critical perspectives on the abilities required in the AI era. It was incredibly educational.”
• - N.S. from Yokohama National University stated, “I found the discussions intriguing, which also helped me gain clarity on corporate expectations.”

The enthusiasm was palpable throughout the venue, culminating in a rich exchange of ideas and aspirations among future leaders in technology.

Corporate Insights

Representatives from exhibiting companies were equally impressed by the caliber of students present. A recruiting manager from a major venture expressed, “We were astonished by the talent of the students gathered here. Our team fully supports participating in the next event!”

Bestiee's Vision

Hiroshi Goto, the president of bestiee, shared his thoughts on the festival’s significance: “We have entered an era where humanity can devote all passion to creative challenges thanks to advancements in AI. The aim is to create a space where aspiring individuals can directly learn from top industry players about the skills and mindsets needed to harness AI for new value creation.” Goto reaffirmed his commitment to continuing this mission of maximizing the potential of youth.

Looking Ahead: Future Events

AI Challengers Fest is also gearing up for its upcoming events in 2026, inviting sponsors to connect with talented students eager to delve into AI. Participating companies will gain valuable access to exceptional candidates who are passionate about technology and eager to engage with the industry's leading organizations.

2026 Event Schedule:

• - Second Round: April 26 (100% for graduates of 2028)
• - Third Round: June 21 (100% for graduates of 2028)
• - Fourth Round: October 11 (100% for graduates of 2028)
• - Fifth Round: December 6 (70% for graduates of 2028, 30% for graduates of 2029)

All events will take place at GMO Yours - Fukurasu in Shibuya, promising another exciting year filled with innovation and connection.

Conclusion

Join now in this movement toward developing the next generation of AI leaders. Whether you’re a company looking to connect with fresh talent or a student ready to explore opportunities in AI, AI Challengers Fest is the event to watch in the coming years. For additional inquiries and sponsorship opportunities, please contact us through the bestiee website.