#Japan #Yokohama #SenseDrive #Mitsukeiro

Empowering the Next Generation: Yokohama Port Festival Experience

The recent Yokohama Port Festival, held on June 1-2, 2026, showcased an innovative career exploration program called "Mitsukeiro" by SenseDrive Co., Ltd. This initiative allowed 180 participants to engage in hands-on job experiences, achieving an impressive satisfaction rate of 91.8% according to post-event surveys. The event was also featured on Fuji TV's nationwide news program, "FNN Live News α," amplifying its impact.

What is Mitsukeiro?

Mitsukeiro aims to address a growing concern among both children and adults: the uncertainty surrounding career choices. With many unsure about what they want to do in life, this program provides a fun and accessible way to explore various jobs. By participating in activities that resemble a "taste test" of careers, children can discover their preferences and interests in a supportive environment.

Dual Focus: Community Engagement and Career Awareness

During the festival, Mitsukeiro integrated two main areas: the "Hanahaku Marche Area," which showcased the real charms of Yokohama in preparation for the upcoming GREEN×EXPO 2027, and the "Children's Job Experience Area," where kids became the stars of the show. The collaboration between these two sections allowed participants to not only develop their skills but also appreciate local culture.

Highlights from the Hanahaku Marche Area

In the Hanahaku Marche, participants had the chance to engage in activities such as:

• - Making Yokohama Cabbage Kimchi: In this workshop hosted by D-Plan Ltd. and Mochida Farm, children learned how to select and prepare locally grown cabbage. After participating in the kimchi-making process, they could take home their creations to observe how flavors developed through fermentation. This hands-on experience underlined the importance of local agriculture and sustainability, leaving participants with a memorable culinary experience.

Children's Job Experience: Learning Economic Cycles

The children's job experience area introduced young participants to a mini-economic ecosystem, where they could earn a special currency called “Kodomo Tsuka” (children’s currency) by participating in various jobs over 15 to 30 minutes. This setup allowed them to understand basic economic principles such as earning and spending in a fun and interactive way. Some engaging initiatives included:

• - Bamboo Grove Management: Children acted as members of a "Bamboo Rescue Team," tackling environmental issues associated with neglected bamboo forests, organized by the Yokohama Bamboo Study Group.
• - Yokohama Kombu Producer: In collaboration with Sachi Umi Heroes LLC, kids developed marketing strategies for local kelp, fostering environmental awareness through practical marketing activities.
• - Kids' Tsutaya Experience: Offered by Culture Experience Co., Ltd., this task allowed children to design captivating store displays that express their uniqueness and attract customers.
• - Children's Radio Station: Thanks to Kanazawa Seaside FM, participants developed their interviewing skills and gained firsthand experience in live broadcasting.

The results of the event were overwhelmingly positive with children expressing excitement for what they had experienced. When asked what they enjoyed most, 72.9% highlighted the "hands-on experience" as their favorite aspect, vastly surpassing other categories like "seeing" (10.4%) and "learning" (16.7%). This proves that interactive participation fosters a deeper curiosity and engagement among young learners.

Staff Development and Community Impact

Mitsukeiro also served as a growth opportunity for the staff involved. University students and local volunteers collaborated to run the event, receiving positive feedback for their role in enhancing children's understanding of local industries. Post-event surveys revealed that staff members felt more connected to the community and recognized their impact.

Anticipating Future Events

Building on the successful execution of the event, SenseDrive is excited to announce the launch of a local model of Mitsukeiro in Shizuoka, scheduled for July 25, 2026. This model will continue the mission of illuminating various engaging jobs in regional areas while facilitating positive experiences for both children and adults. Further details about exhibitors and schedules will be announced via the official website and press releases.

In conclusion, SenseDrive's Mitsukeiro program not only equips children with valuable insights into potential careers but also reignites enthusiasm for local industry amidst educator and community engagement. Given the success from the Yokohama District, preparations for future initiatives are underway, ensuring that this rewarding experience can reach even more children in Japan.

For inquiries or interest in participating as an exhibitor or volunteer, please reach out via email at [email protected].