#Japan #Tokyo #Gokigen Seminar #Shigoto Hito #Jinji Yamamoto

Transforming Communities with the Gokigen Seminar

In a serene corner of Kiyosumishirakawa, Tokyo, a new initiative is taking shape designed for those who seek a refreshing approach to community involvement and personal development. Starting in April 2026, Shigoto Hito, led by CEO Kenta Nakamura, will launch a hands-on seminar series titled "How to Create a Town with Happy Adults - A Small Practice Seminar to Materialize What You Want to Try." The deadline for applications is set for March 18, 2026.

About the Seminar and its Director

The Gokigen Seminar is rooted in practical learning through collaborative experiences, featuring a diverse range of professionals as instructors. Previous seminars have included topics like “Living through Writing” and “Creating Community Spaces,” each designed to engage participants creatively and meaningfully.

Historically, members of Shigoto Hito have been the architects of these initiatives from conception to execution. However, looking to expand the learning landscape, they recognized the necessity of external collaboration, prompting a call for new talent to bring innovative ideas and experiences to the table.

That’s where the Gokigen Seminar Director role, called “Maku Hito,” was established, an invitation for passionate individuals to join in crafting this initiative.

Instructors Who Foster Community Transformation

Leading the charge is Jinji Yamamoto, the seminar's originator. A versatile figure, Yamamoto seamlessly navigates between urban and rural environments, bringing both insights and inspiration to participants. Joining him are trailblazers like Daisuke Sakamoto, Takashi Yoshidada, Riken Komatsu, and Kazunari Sako, all of whom have made significant impacts in their respective fields, showcasing how community change can be initiated through joy and collaboration.

Instructor Profiles:

• - Jinji Yamamoto: Born in Kyoto, he co-founded a community personnel planning office in 2020 while also running a snack bar in Tokyo. As a public relations designer and filmmaker, he is recognized for his projects like the LIVE DESIGN School.
• - Daisuke Sakamoto: Him being a designer and operator of Office Camp, he facilitates co-working spaces that emphasize collaboration among local cultures and economies, creating inclusive and creative environments.
• - Takashi Yoshidada: A musician and art school representative, his passion for social issues and education earned him notable recognition, including the Good Design Award.
• - Riken Komatsu: Leading the alternative space UDOK and managing multiple community initiatives, he emphasizes local activities through his writing and projects.
• - Kazunari Sako: He focuses on everyday enjoyment through local design and product development while advocating for community-driven initiatives.

Each instructor will offer unique perspectives, ensuring participants gain diverse insights into the practice of building a lively and engaging community.

The Importance of 'Gokigen'

In today’s fast-paced world, where efficiency and results are often prioritized, the fundamental human urges to explore, enjoy, and engage in small joys can be easily overlooked. The term 'Gokigen' within the context of this seminar transcends mere positivity; it captures a more profound state where individuals are in tune with their inner voice, fostering authentic connections with their surroundings.

The aim of the seminar is for each participant to discover their own seeds of 'Gokigen' and initiate small actions that will ultimately enhance the community's spirit.

A Program for Self-Discovery and Community Engagement

Spanning over seven sessions from April 15 to May 27, participants will navigate their personal journeys and explore their connections with their community. The approach is experiential:
1. Introspection: Participants will delve into their past experiences, identifying sources of joy and long-held values.
2. Observation: With a sharpened sense of awareness, they will discover local resources in their environment that resonate with their personal stories.
3. Practice: A relaxed approach to trying new things allows for joy in experimenting without the pressure of failure.

Seminar Details

• - Duration: April 15 to May 27, 2026 (7 sessions)
• - Location: In-person at Little Tokyo, Koto-ku, Tokyo, and online via Google Meet
• - Capacity: 15 participants for onsite sessions and 15 online (additional student discount available)
• - Fees: 44,000 JPY for onsite (34,000 JPY early bird before March 11), 22,000 JPY for online participation (all fees include tax)
• - Application Deadline: March 18, 2026
• - More Info & Registration: Visit the Seminar Page

Conclusion

The Gokigen seminar is more than just a series of lectures; it’s an opportunity to engage in thoughtful practices that will not only enrich participants' lives but also positively influence the greater community around them. By nurturing creativity and collaboration, this initiative aspires to create ripples of change, cultivating a happier and more connected urban landscape for all.

For further inquiries about this seminar, please contact Shigoto Hito at the following email address: [email protected].