Poppins CEO Addresses Economic Growth Through Gender Equality at International Event

Promoting Economic Growth Through Gender Equality: Poppins CEO at ICMA Event

On November 4, Poppins CEO Maiko Todoroki participated in an international event organized by the ICMA Women’s Network and Daiwa Securities. This significant event concentrated on the theme of "Investment in Human Rights and Gender Equality Leading to Economic Growth," drawing participation from numerous attendees both domestically and internationally.

The day featured keynote speeches from both the Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike and Maiko Todoroki, where Todoroki discussed the pressing issue of "Women's Empowerment in Japanese Society." In addition to the speeches, panel discussions with representatives from international organizations such as the International Finance Corporation (IFC) and UN Women explored the vital interconnection between women's participation and economic development.

Overview of the Keynote: Challenges of Women’s Participation in Japan

Despite Japan hosting some of the world's top female educational and health resources, the country ranks a disappointing 118th in the Global Gender Gap Index. A particularly concerning statistic in economic growth shows that over 35% of women transition to non-regular employment due to parenting, leading to significant opportunities lost for the economy. It's estimated that fully engaging this 'sleeping workforce' could contribute an impressive economic impact of approximately 8.7 trillion yen.

Poppins has championed the mission of "Supporting Working Women" since its inception, striving towards a society where women can pursue career aspirations without compromise. This goal is deemed essential for long-term economic prosperity. The company's vision emphasizes that "When women shine, the world shines and the future changes," committing to contribute to the advancement of Japanese society.

Insights from ICMA Women’s Network

The International Capital Market Association (ICMA) has established the ICMA Women’s Network (IWN) with the goals of "Networking. Progression. Support." The IWN aims to assist and inspire women across all career stages while promoting gender equality within the bond market. The network serves as a global, equitable, and open forum dedicated to these objectives. More details can be found on ICMA's official website.

About Poppins Group

Founded in 1987, Poppins Group's mission is to support working women through the provision of top-tier childcare and nursing services. Offering nanny services, Poppins Sitters, nursery care, after-school programs, and bespoke VIP care, the company responds to the diverse needs of working women throughout Japan.

Poppins Group’s Commitment to SDGs

In 2020, Poppins became the first SDGs-IPO company in Japan to be listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange. Since its inception, the company has targeted social contribution through its core business. Poppins emphasizes action towards three key SDGs: Goal 4 - Ensuring Quality Education for All, Goal 5 - Achieving Gender Equality, and Goal 8 - Promoting Decent Work and Economic Growth. Poppins actively implements these SDGs through its daily services in education and care while also researching "SDGs for Children" in collaboration with Harvard University's Project Zero, contributing academically to the discourse on SDGs.