Teenagers Overcoming Life's Challenges Develop Apps to Change the World

Youth Empowerment Through Technology: Japan Wagamama Awards 2026

As part of a groundbreaking initiative spearheaded by IRODORI, ten passionate teenagers from across Japan have stepped forward to present their inventive apps aimed at addressing pressing social issues. Officially recognized by the Japanese Ministry of Education and supported by the U.S. Embassy and numerous local governments, the Japan Wagamama Awards 2026 celebrates the creativity of youth who aspire to effect tangible change in their communities by harnessing the power of technology.

This award, designed to showcase projects developed with the philosophy rooted in the MIT (Massachusetts Institute of Technology) educational approach called "Computational Action," engages these teens to translate their distant dreams into feasible technological solutions. The finalists are set to present their ideas on March 1, 2026, at a final event in Tokyo. The winner will represent Japan at the global summit at MIT in July.

Spotlight on the Finalists

Each finalist has articulated a deep-rooted wish—often personal—to improve their communities. Here’s a closer look at their projects:

1. Understanding Developmental Disorders
School: Ōharama Elementary School, Nasushiobara
Finalists: Ryoma Iwase, Rinta Matsumoto, Kanta Okuyama
Overview: An app designed to educate classmates about developmental disorders, based on the team's experiences within a special needs classroom.

2. Creating an Accessible City
School: Hakui High School
Finalists: Rinne Tamura, Anna Kano, Shiho Kitano, Arare Kumoi
Overview: A barrier-free information app for restaurants, inspired by the challenges faced by a family member who uses a cane, aimed at making dining out more accessible.

3. Promoting Acceptance of Diverse Interests
School: Clark Memorial International High School
Finalist: Haruto Kawamoto
Overview: An application stemming from personal experiences of feeling judged for unique passions, this app encourages an environment where curiosity is celebrated.

4. Safe Commutes for Children
School: Sendai Nika Middle School
Finalist: Ryo Tomita
Overview: An app designed to enhance safety awareness in the community, particularly for students who commute long distances.

5. Fostering Creativity Amidst Evaluation Pressure
School: Seiko Academy
Finalist: Kiichiro Iizuka
Overview: This app encourages students to reconnect with their interests and creativity, often lost amidst the demands of evaluations.

6. Staying Connected While Apart
School: Kansai Soka High School
Finalist: Karen Kouchi
Overview: Designed for students living away from their parents due to education, this app promotes closeness and helps combat loneliness around mealtime.

7. Peer Support for Children of Divorce
School: Musashi International School Tokyo
Finalist: Keita Sano
Overview: An app that gives voice to children experiencing parental divorce, fostering a community of support.

8. Star Observation and Mental Health
School: Kakanishi High School
Finalist: Chisako Yabune
Overview: Born out of a desire to document star observations, this app also aids users in alleviating mental fatigue.

9. Communicating LGBTQ+ Experiences
School: Hokota National High School
Finalist: Yuno Amemiya
Overview: This application enables a safe space for discussing sexual identity, drawing from personal experiences and those of friends.

10. Facing Anxiety with Hope
School: Kyoto City Shisen High School
Finalist: Nana Aozaki
Overview: Addressing anxiety has become an ally through an app that guides users to take proactive steps despite their fears.

Event Details

The Japan Wagamama Awards 2026 final presentations will take place on March 1, 2026, from 10:30 AM to 5:00 PM, with the venue being AKKODiS Innovation Lab in Tokyo. The event will be hybrid, allowing both in-person and online participation.

Organized by IRODORI and in partnership with the App Inventor Foundation, the program underscores how technology can be used as a bridge to overcome challenges and promote change—from local to global.

With such diverse and impactful projects in the works, the awards aim not only to honor the creativity and innovation of these young minds but also to foster a culture of inquiry and resilience among the youth of Japan. The finale promises to be an inspiring showcase of talent and ambition that exemplifies technological engagement in addressing real-life issues.