Actors Atsuko Maeda and Kenta Suga Promote the Value of Parenting at Work through New Short Movie

Supporting Parenting at Work: A New Initiative

In Tokyo, a new initiative aims to change the perception of parenting from just a vacation to a crucial job. With the encouragement of the city, the campaign titled 'Ikugyo' seeks to foster an environment where parenting is recognized and supported by the entire society.

Recent statistics indicate that last year, 54.8% of men in Tokyo took parental leave, a substantial figure showcasing that one in two men participates in parenting roles. To accelerate this positive trend, the movement stresses the importance of mutual support among parenting individuals and their colleagues.

To highlight this very theme, actors Atsuko Maeda and Kenta Suga have joined forces to create a short film aimed at shifting societal norms. The film, based on the message 'Support Flows Back and Forth: A Society Where Parenting is the Norm', is dedicated to nurturing a culture that champions parenting in the workplace. The movie will be officially released today, and viewers are invited to experience this inspiring narrative.

Employee Supporting Parenting: Atsuko Maeda

Atsuko Maeda, born in 1991 in Chiba Prefecture, began her career as a member of the first generation of AKB48 in 2005. Debuting as an actress in the 2007 film 'Asu no Watashi no Tsukurikata', she has made significant strides in her career. After leaving AKB48, she starred in prominent shows like NHK's historical drama 'Ryomaden' and continues to be active in various fields including television, film, stage, and music.

In the short film, Maeda’s character depicts an office colleague who notices the diligent handover process undertaken by a parenting individual. As the story unfolds, complex feelings of appreciation and understanding clear up, showcasing the beauty of support in the workplace.

Parenting Individual: Kenta Suga

Kenta Suga, who made his acting debut as a child in 1998, gained recognition for his role in the drama 'Hito ni Yasashiku' in 2002. His talent earned him accolades including the Best New Actor Award at the 30th Japan Academy Prize in 2007 and a Special Acting Award at the 17th Japan Film Critics Awards in 2008. He gained immense popularity through his role in the stage series 'Haikyu!!' and has appeared in numerous dramas on both commercial and NHK channels.

In the film, Suga portrays a parenting individual who expresses gratitude for the support received from colleagues during his time off. Upon returning to work, he vows to support his coworkers in turn, emphasizing the mutual reinforcement needed among parents and their workplace peers.

How to Watch

For those interested in witnessing this inspiring portrayal of workplace solidarity in parenting, the film is available for viewing on the special site: Ikugyo Short Movie.

This campaign aligns with the 'Tokyo 2050 Strategy' which promotes child-centered policies and aims to create an environment conducive to child-rearing. By championing the value of parenting in a professional space, the initiative hopes to build a more supportive society for parents and their families.