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Celebrating Young Changemakers: The JCI JAPAN TOYP 2025 Awards

On May 24, 2025, the final selection of the JCI JAPAN TOYP 2025 took place in Tokyo, organized by the Japan Junior Chamber (JCI Japan). This prestigious awards ceremony recognizes exceptional young individuals who are making substantial contributions to society.

During the final event held in the Nikkei Hall, 22 finalists competed in two categories: the JCI JAPAN TOYP 2025 (for participants aged 20 and older) and the TOYP SEED category (for those under 20). Each finalist presented a three-minute pitch followed by a question-and-answer session, where ten judges cast their votes to determine the winners.

Winners of the JCI JAPAN TOYP 2025

Grand Prize Winner: Tatsuya Hoshino

Tatsuya Hoshino, the CEO of NIJIN, an alternative school academy, received the Grand Prize for his efforts in addressing the issue of school refusal. Through the use of the metaverse as a learning hub and expanding physical campuses into 13 regions in Japan, Hoshino has introduced an innovative educational model. Currently, NIJIN has enrolled over 400 students from 40 different prefectures and partnered with sister schools in Malaysia and New Zealand.

Runner-Up: Moana Kikuchi

The Runner-Up award was given to Moana Kikuchi, CEO of Borderless Tanzania Limited. She launched a business that manufactures and sells disposable menstrual pads in Tanzania. By establishing factories and providing employment opportunities for young single mothers who dropped out of school, Kikuchi aims to tackle menstrual poverty and promote education for girls by offering free sanitary products and sexual education.

Another Notable Runner-Up: Airi Kato

Also receiving recognition was Airi Kato, CEO of Mutubi, who started a disaster-focused media outlet to share vital information regarding issues in disaster-hit areas. Kato, who moved to Wajima after the Noto Peninsula Earthquake, is committed to enhancing disaster prevention strategies through her work.

Noteworthy Finalists

The event showcased other remarkable finalists who also deserve recognition:

• - Shinano Asai: Founder of asai, she developed the reanne kit that analyzes menstrual blood components for early detection of gynecological diseases such as endometriosis.
• - Taku Ogawa: Leading 3tive.design, he orchestrated an art festival focusing on embracing diversity and creating new cultural value in Nagaoka City.
• - Kimi Nakajima: As the head of the Tokyo Outing Project, she organizes events for children with medical needs, creating access to exciting locations.

Each finalist brought a unique perspective on pressing social issues, proving that age is not a barrier to impactful change. The JCI JAPAN TOYP not only encourages young leaders but also amplifies their voices on platforms that can initiate widespread transformation.

Looking Ahead

The results of the JCI JAPAN TOYP 2025 will be communicated to various government ministries, and awards will be presented at a ceremony set for June 29, 2025. Notably, winners Tatsuya Hoshino, Moana Kikuchi, and Airi Kato will also participate as speakers at the Summer Conference 2025 scheduled for July 19 in Yokohama.

This year marks the 39th edition of the JCI JAPAN TOYP, honoring not just the winners but all finalists for their relentless dedication to positive change. Their projects showcase the potential of young changemakers in creating a better future for society.

For more details, visit the official JCI JAPAN TOYP website.