#Japan #Kobe #Rise & Play #Diversity Training #DEI Education

Enhancing Diversity Training Through Puzzle-Based Learning

In an innovative approach to corporate training, Rise & Play, established in Kobe, Japan, aims to address the pressing need for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. Founded by Kanako Waku, the company will officially launch in May 2025, with its debut experience event scheduled for May 15 in Koto, Tokyo. This event will provide an interactive platform where participants can learn about disabilities and DEI through engaging puzzle-solving activities.

The Concept Behind Rise & Play

Kanako Waku's commitment to DEI is rooted in her experiences at Blind Writers, a company she founded in 2019 that prioritizes the employment of individuals with disabilities. Through this work, she witnessed firsthand the barriers and misunderstandings surrounding disabilities in the workplace. Many employees with disabilities leave their jobs due to a lack of fitting in, particularly those with visual impairments, who often face significant hurdles in the employment sector. Recognizing the need for a more inclusive environment not just at work but also in recreational activities, Rise & Play was born.

The company offers two primary services: comprehensive DEI training through puzzle-solving and the development of barrier-free games, including escape rooms and board games.

Learning Through Puzzle-Solving

The core of Rise & Play’s training methodology revolves around immersive experiences. By temporarily disabling their usual senses and participating in group puzzles, attendees can simulate the challenges faced by minority groups and reflect on the essence of inclusion and the necessary considerations for accommodating diversity. This hands-on learning approach helps participants grasp not just the importance of DEI but also the practicality of implementing inclusive designs in their organizations.

Even organizations believing in the necessity of DEI often struggle to understand its relevance in more personal terms. This training aims to bridge that gap, providing a practical understanding through engaging activities. Companies hesitant to employ people with disabilities or those facing challenges with their current initiatives are encouraged to join this transformative experience.

What to Expect at the Training

Participants will explore the meaning of DEI, contemplating scenarios in which majority and minority roles are reversed. They'll engage with thought-provoking questions: What defines a person as 'disabled'? Can DEI initiatives be implemented at virtually no cost? The outcome is a deeper comprehension of DEI and how it can be practiced effectively in various environments.

Barrier-Free Fun with Games

In addition to training, Rise & Play is dedicated to making leisure activities inclusive through barrier-free puzzle games, escape rooms, and board games. These forms of entertainment are immensely popular, especially among individuals in their 20s and 30s, and provide not just fun but also a platform to nurture social skills and communication.

However, the current landscape of these games presents numerous access challenges. This is why Rise & Play is committed to developing fun, accessible gaming experiences that cater to a diverse audience. Their first project is a crowdfunding campaign for 'Decorative Dobutsu Shogi,' designed not only to be visually appealing but also to be playable by individuals with visual impairments.

Team and Collaborators

Led by Kanako Waku, the Rise & Play team brings a wealth of expertise in both gaming and accessibility. Kanako has dedicated over a decade to advocacy and support for individuals with disabilities. Her journey has fueled her passion for creating barrier-free entertainment. Notable team members include Takahiro Mishima, a mystery designer with award-winning experiences in escape games, and Naomi Kobayashi, an expert in accessibility who has actively worked towards integrating inclusive practices in various settings.

Finally, their collaboration with Sumié Sakuma from Training Company ensures that the DEI training is not only impactful but also sustainable, promoting continuous learning and growth among participants.

Company Overview

Company Name: Rise & Play Inc.
Headquarters: 650-0012 Hyogo, Kobe, Naka-Ku, Kitacho 3-5-10 norosi.kobe
CEO: Kanako Waku
Services Offered:
1. Corporate training and educational services
2. Product development and consulting for DEI initiatives
3. Support and training services for individuals with disabilities
4. Publishing and editing of books and digital content

For more information on their mission and services, visit Rise & Play's Website or their Note page.