#Japan #Papageno #Yasunori Tanaka #Youth Leader Award #Suginami-ku, Tokyo

Exclusive Interview Opportunity

Papageno Inc. has announced a special initiative for a limited number of participants to engage directly with its CEO, Yasunori Tanaka. In celebration of his recent achievement of the "Youth Leader Award" at the 17th Youth Power Award, this opportunity is available to the first 50 applicants until the end of February 2026. This initiative marks a unique chance to explore the strategies behind his award-winning company that leverages generative AI for employment support.

Background of the Initiative

Last December, Papageno launched a campaign inviting 50 businesses to participate in interviews, where Yasunori Tanaka acted as an interviewer. This initiative attracted significant attention, receiving over 50 applications within just two weeks. It created meaningful dialogues with numerous welfare organizations and businesses, showcasing the impact of their interviews.

This new program shifts the focus, making Tanaka and Papageno the subjects of interviews. The event coincides with the Youth Power Award ceremony scheduled for February 13, 2026, where Tanaka will receive recognition for his organization's contributions to new forms of support for people with mental disabilities using AI technologies.

Participants can be media representatives, professionals from welfare services, business leaders, students, and individual creators. The goal is to promote understanding and awareness of innovative recovery solutions for those with mental disabilities and the use of generative AI in welfare practices.

How to Participate

The application is open for an online video call interview—approximately 30 minutes long—or for visiting Papageno Work & Recovery's site. The application period lasts until the end of February 2026, and the interview sessions are expected to take place until the end of April 2026. Interested parties must publicly share the content from the interview within three months after the meeting, whether as articles, videos, podcasts, or other formats.

Before submitting an application, please ensure adherence to guidelines prohibiting any association with unethical practices or groups.

Who Should Apply?

We are eager to hear from diverse individuals, including:

• - Students and Researchers: Those interested in AI's role in disability welfare or seeking themes for academic essays.
• - Welfare Professionals: Anyone keen to see firsthand the practical application of AI in the support sector.
• - YouTube Creators: Opportunities for dialogue formats or field reports are available.
• - Media Representatives: Articles for web media, professional magazines, and academic journals are welcome.
• - Government Officials and Politicians: Those interested in touring the facilities or having online discussions about the welfare sector.

Benefits of Participation

1. Exclusive Interview: Get in-depth insights during the award announcement around the Youth Leader Award, which recognizes innovative efforts in AI and disability support.
2. Content Sharing: All publicly shared materials will be promoted via Yasunori Tanaka's social media, providing access to a community interested in AI and disability welfare.
3. Deep Dive into Recent Developments: Discuss the book "New Forms of Disability Support through Generative AI: Social Work 4.0," published in March 2025, and learn about the latest developments and future plans from Papageno.

Application Steps

Interested parties should complete the application form found here.

About Yasunori Tanaka

Yasunori Tanaka, CEO of Papageno, established the company in 2022 after researching media and suicide at Kanagawa Prefectural University. Leveraging his expertise, Tanaka is on a mission to implement social recovery through innovative programs aimed at mental health support. Papageno's services particularly cater to those with mental and developmental disabilities, through initiatives like "Papageno Work & Recovery." They also focus on development and provision of digital tools for welfare professionals, enhancing the landscape of disability employment.

About the 17th Youth Power Award

Hosted by the Japan Youth Leaders Association, this award recognizes young leaders making significant contributions to society. Tanaka's approach, utilizing AI for employment support and boosting digital transformation in welfare, was pivotal in receiving the Youth Leader Award.

To learn more about Papageno and Yasunori Tanaka's insightful journey, please visit the official website and YouTube channel.