Kids Marketplace Event Empowers Young Entrepreneurs in Shibuya

Empowering Young Minds: The Kids Marketplace Event

On May 10th, an incredible event titled Kids Marketplace took place at the Shibuya Bunka Sogo Center, organized by the NPO Iruka House. With the vibrant theme of “Children are the Stars! Learning Life Skills through Real Business”, seven organizations participated, all deeply aligned with this inspiring vision. During the two-hour event, approximately 150 visitors were drawn in by the enthusiastic calls of the child vendors and engaged in an array of handmade products and unique experiential offerings.

A Platform for Learning and Growth

The idea for the Kids Marketplace emerged from conversations at the Iruka House, where children eager to sell their art felt motivated to take their creativity to a larger audience. This grassroots initiative called for collaboration between organizations nurturing children, creating a space for fun and learning. Two online meetings meticulously planned the event details, discussing everything from venue logistics to promotional strategies.

When the doors opened at 2 PM, the buzz of excitement filled the air. The child vendors, prepped and passionate, handled their booths with surprising maturity, from attracting customers to negotiating prices. The atmosphere was filled with joy and warmth as kids interacted with attendees, showcasing confidence often unseen in everyday life. A highlight of the occasion was the Stage Time, where student volunteers helped emcee, and young entrepreneurs showcased their talents through singing and product demonstrations.

One standout was a group of girls who conducted origami workshops, not just selling their crafts but also teaching others the beauty of their art.

Impact and Response

Feedback from both attendees and participants was overwhelmingly positive. Parents expressed joy witnessing their children's confidence and social skills emerge, saying, “It’s heartwarming to see the kids thriving and engaging with customers so skillfully.” Others stated, “We’d love to participate in future events; my child had a blast and felt proud of their achievements.” Moreover, children directly involved reported feelings of happiness, stating how wonderful it was to see customers delighted with their creations. Volunteers assisting within the organizations were also taken aback by the transformation of typically shy children, witnessing them speak up and shine on stage.

Learning Through Practice

The process of preparing for the marketplace taught the kids valuable insights. For instance, one young participant noted, “We learned that cutting straws to a manageable length saves time for craft-making,” as they realized not just the logistics but the entire retail experience—from creating products to being ready with change for customers.

Looking Ahead

After a successful inaugural event, the Iruka House is planning its second marketplace and is seeking more organizations to partner with. They also aim to connect with volunteers willing to support children as they build their businesses. Interested parties are encouraged to reach out and get involved in fostering this enriching initiative.

Organizational Insights

The vision of Iruka House extends beyond just events; it creates a nurturing environment for children and adults alike, prioritizing inclusivity and community well-being. Their focus includes conducting family-friendly dining experiences and supporting various educational and leisure activities. As they expand their outreach, they remain committed to the ideals of nurturing creativity and entrepreneurship among young minds, encouraging community members to engage with and support these transformative experiences.

About the Organizers
NPO Free School Maimai
Location: Shibuya Ward, Hatagaya
Director: Tomoe Koonoike
Established: September 5, 2002
Activities: Youth development, parental support, community building, environmental conservation, and more.
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