#Japan #Tokyo #Women in Action #Sheena Iyengar #Tokyo Governor

Overview of the Event

On August 25, 2025, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government held the empowering event titled 'Women in Action: Choosing Your Career'. This initiative aims to foster a society where individuals can pursue their desired careers without being constrained by gender. A digest video capturing the essence of the event has been released on YouTube and the official website.

Video Highlights

The video is structured as follows:

• - 0:00–0:40: Digest Start
• - 0:40–4:18: Event Inauguration
• - 4:18–51:49: Keynote Speech by Sheena Iyengar
• - 51:49–1:21:53: Panel Discussion featuring Sheena Iyengar, Akira Koji, Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike, and moderator Tsukahara Tsukiko
• - 1:21:53–1:47:38: Interactive Session with High School Students

Keynote Address by Sheena Iyengar

In her keynote speech, Professor Sheena Iyengar from Columbia Business School emphasized the importance of viewing life choices through the lens of personal stories. She highlighted that the power of choice stems from our abilities to discover and create. Moreover, she discussed the downsides of having too many choices and offered guidance on making significant decisions.

Insights from the Panel Discussion

The panel discussion brought together leaders from various backgrounds to discuss the essentials of career development and the establishment of a society free from gender biases. Key points from the discussion included:

• - The value of intercultural experiences and diverse perspectives.
• - The need for reform in environmental, institutional, and societal awareness.
• - The significance of both leadership and followership in effecting change.
• - Promotion of women's advancement and the criticality of diversity management.

Interaction with High School Students

The event also featured a lively exchange with high school students, who posed questions regarding careers and gender issues. The panelists shared valuable insights on the gender gap, career choices, leadership, and the importance of women confidently embracing challenges. Governor Koike ardently advocated for necessary awareness and institutional reforms, suggesting initiatives like renaming maternity leave to 'child-rearing leave'.

Event Summary

• - Event Name: Women in Action: Choosing Your Career
• - Date: August 25, 2025 (Monday), 16:30–18:20
• - Venue: Tokyo Innovation Base (2F 'STAGE', 3-8-3 Marunouchi, Chiyoda Ward)

Featured Speakers

• - Sheena Iyengar, Professor, Columbia Business School
• - Akira Koji, Chairman, Asahi Group Holdings
• - Yuriko Koike, Governor of Tokyo
• - Tsukiko Tsukahara, CEO of Kaleidist (Moderator)

The 'Women in Action' event serves as a beacon of hope and empowerment for women, inspiring them to pursue their dreams and craft their unique career paths.