Tamiya Home's Empowering Conversation with Deaf Olympians and Athletes

Empowering Conversations: Tamiya Home's Deaf-Friendly Initiative

Tamiya Home, headquartered in Tokorozawa, Saitama, is dedicated to supporting individuals with hearing impairments through innovative programs. As part of its Deaf-Friendly Initiative, the company is organizing discussions featuring Deaf athletes, with a spotlight on the upcoming Deaf Olympics in Tokyo 2025. In this article, we delve into a recent interview with Yuria Miyakawa, an athlete aspiring to compete in these games, alongside former professional athletes from Tamiya Home, Kaede Inasashi and Arashi Morisaka.

Overview of the Initiative

Tamiya Home, led by President Akihiko Tamiya, is committed to fostering a more inclusive society. With about 90% of its employees having athletic backgrounds, the company actively engages in projects that bridge gaps between different capabilities and cultivate understanding of hearing challenges. This initiative not only highlights the skills and experiences of Deaf athletes but also emphasizes the importance of cooperation and empathy in sports.

Yuria Miyakawa: Rising Star in Deaf Tennis

Yuria Miyakawa, a promising athlete set to represent Japan in the Deaf Olympics, is currently a student at Nihon University, specializing in sports science. At just 21 years old, she has already made her mark in the sports world, winning numerous domestic and international titles, including three second-place finishes in significant championships in 2023 and 2024. Her journey reflects resilience and determination, and her upcoming participation in the Deaf Olympics has garnered great expectations for medal achievements.

Fostering Connections

In this unique dialogue, Yuria will converse with Kaede and Arashi, both seasoned athletes who understand the challenges and triumphs of competitive sports. Together, they will discuss the significance of facing obstacles, the joy of pursuing dreams, and the communal value of sports. For Tamiya Home, this dialogue aligns with its mission to create an environment fostering empathy and understanding regarding hearing impairments, thereby enriching the overall company culture.

Training and Passion: A Common Ground

During the interview, Yuria will share her passion for Deaf tennis, highlighting its charm and appeal. Meanwhile, Kaede, a former Nadeshiko League goalkeeper, and Arashi, a former Olympic boxer, will bring their own experiences to the table, discussing the notion of competition across different fields. The exchange aims to reveal reciprocal insights and inspirations that transcend the boundaries of disabilities.

The Event: Where Innovation Meets Reality

On July 28, 2025, Tamiya Home will hold a unique press event at the Meguro Tennis School in Tokyo, where journalists and media personnel are invited to capture the essence of this initiative. The event will particularly feature:
1. Tennis Experience and Interaction: From 9:00 AM to 10:30 AM, employees Kaede and Arashi will learn tennis with guidance from Yuria, showcasing the joys of sports and inclusivity through action.
2. Thought-Provoking Discussions: From 10:45 AM to 11:30 AM, the trio will engage in a candid conversation, sharing insights on perseverance, identity as Deaf athletes, and the vision Tamiya Home has for a more inclusive society.
3. Reflections and Media Engagement: Following the discussions, reflections on their experiences will be shared with the media, providing a holistic view of their interactions and the outcomes of the dialogue.

Looking Ahead

This sociocultural initiative reflects Tamiya Home’s commitment to fostering an environment where both employees and clients can engage positively, regardless of their background. Furthermore, Tamiya Home is dedicated to continuously developing Deaf-friendly services that cater to everyone’s needs. By promoting understanding and collaboration, Tamiya Home strives for a harmonious society where all individuals can thrive.

For ongoing conversations and articles about Tamiya Home’s journey towards inclusivity, readers are encouraged to tune into their open internal reports published on the Tamiya Home Note. These insights will provide a deeper understanding of how Tamiya Home is making strides in advocating for the Deaf community and enhancing overall societal attitudes toward hearing impairments.

Tamiya Home continues to pave the way for compassion and understanding, ensuring that everyone feels welcomed and valued within society.