Future Career Seminar in Sapporo: Insights from Industry Leaders

On November 6, 2025, the Future Innovation Forum (FIF), directed by Kiyotaka Kanemaru, CEO of Future Corporation, hosted a significant career seminar at Sapporo Kosei Junior High School in Hokkaido. This event aimed to broaden the career perspectives of third-year students, guiding them during a pivotal phase in their educational journey. The seminar was themed "Understanding Yourself and Society" and co-organized with Sapporo Kosei Junior High School, renowned for its proactive career counseling approach.

During the event, three accomplished speakers from diverse fields in Hokkaido shared their insights into the decision-making process that shapes one’s career path. They reflected on their academic journeys and how these experiences have influenced their current roles. The interactive panel discussion sparked numerous inquiries from students, for instance, when a student asked about the uncertainties faced throughout various career transitions, Kenji Yanagishita, who currently oversees the operations of a sports team, remarked on the balance of fear and joy that change brings, emphasizing positive outlooks on new experiences as an avenue for growth.

Another interesting exchange occurred when Sayo Nakamura, an IT consultant, advised students hesitant about pursuing science due to difficulties in mathematics to leverage generative AI as a tool for learning. She encouraged them to focus on understanding concepts rather than rote memorization. Tomohiro Shimizu, a physician and researcher, offered a reassuring message about the pressures of meeting expectations set by family and society, urging students to explore their limitless potential and sincerely analyze their aspirations.

FIF has been a pillar of community support since its inception in 2006, fostering collaborations among various stakeholders to expand its reach in social contribution. Looking forward, FIF aims to provide numerous opportunities for diverse age groups to engage with cutting-edge technologies and high-quality career education, thereby contributing positively to the future.

Participant Comments (Selected Highlights)

- "This event was incredibly valuable, giving me insights into careers in the sciences that I hadn’t considered before."
- "It made me reflect on my academic plans and future visions."
- "Learning that struggling with math or science doesn’t mean I should abandon a career in these fields was very comforting."
- "I discovered not only the allure and roles within scientific occupations but also essential life lessons."
- "I found new interest in scientific careers that I previously overlooked."

Archive Video Viewing Registration

The archived videos are now available for viewing at FIF Archive Video Registration. The viewing period is expected to last from March 10, 2026, to May 31, 2026. Participants will receive the viewing URL via email.

Event Details

- Date: November 6, 2025, Thursday, 14:25 – 16:15
- Venue: Sapporo Kosei Junior High School, Hokkaido (1-1, Kita 13 Jo Higashi 9-chome, Higashi Ward, Sapporo)
- Speakers:

- Tomohiro Shimizu, Orthopedic Department Lecturer, Hokkaido University Hospital
- Kenji Yanagishita, General Manager, Fighters Sports & Entertainment
- Sayo Nakamura, Manager, Health Innovation Group, Future Corporation
- Moderator: Genki Tanimura, Architect, Future Architect Corporation

Organizers and Collaborators

- Organizer: Future Innovation Forum
- Collaboration: Fighters Sports & Entertainment, Hokkaido University Hospital, Future Corporation, Future Architect Corporation

About FUTURE INNOVATION FORUM

FIF has been dedicated to enhancing society through innovation since its foundation, developing social contribution initiatives in partnership with industry, government, and academia. The forum has engaged over 8,700 participants, providing career education and computing programs aimed at addressing social challenges for today’s youth. To learn more, visit the official site.