#Japan #Osaka #Youth Leaders #Free the Children #Change Maker

Change Maker Meet-Up 2025: Empowering the Future

Gathering Young Changemakers

On December 21, 2025, a significant event took place across Osaka, Kumamoto, and online, bringing together a vibrant community of individuals aged 25 and under dedicated to making a positive impact on society. The event, organized by Free The Children Japan, attracted 114 young changemakers who are passionate about addressing social issues. This year's theme, "Peace Starts with Us," resonated strongly, highlighting the collective goal of creating a better world through courage and action.

A Celebration of Courage

The event opened with an inspiring message from the host, Moeko Sugawara, who expressed gratitude to all participants for their commitment to social causes. She emphasized the importance of their work, stating, "It's not easy to act on behalf of others, and it takes immense courage. Thank you all for your efforts!" The atmosphere was electric with excitement as a countdown led to the official opening of the meet-up.

Voices of Young Changemakers

Throughout the event, attendees were treated to powerful stories from various guest speakers. The special ambassador, Anna Tsuchiya, joined fellow artists, including blind singer Chihiro Watanabe and comedian duo UpDown, to encourage young leaders and share their own experiences. Each speaker's message reaffirmed the theme: the power of individual actions to spark wider societal change.

A Live Exchange of Ideas

The meetup served as a platform for young individuals to connect, share ideas, and inspire one another. The program featured inspirational speeches reflecting on themes like peace, poverty, and happiness. Highlights included a series of relay speeches presented by young speakers from various locations, each sharing their own unique perspectives and initiatives aimed at fostering change.

• - Shun Sasaki, a sixth grader, passionately conveyed his commitment to spreading awareness about Hiroshima's history. His volunteer work as an English guide has taught him that peace is about safety and mutual respect.
• - Asahi Takagi, a high school sophomore, reflected on his experience in Fiji, emphasizing the importance of self-acceptance as a pathway to happiness. He highlighted the need for individuals to recognize their inherent value, encouraging others to prioritize their well-being.
• - Kuren Okamoto, a middle school student, shared her journey of learning about historical injustices through impactful documentaries, inspiring the audience to understand the past in order to shape the future.
• - Shu Taniguchi, a high school senior, challenged attendees to remember their own pivotal moments that led them to action, encouraging everyone to take steps towards change, no matter how small.

A Message from Trailblazers

Veteran changemaker, Tahei Mizuno, founder of the fair trade brand Sisam, emphasized the importance of individual choices in driving social impact. He encouraged attendees to realize their potential as changemakers in everyday life, addressing the collective power of small actions toward a meaningful society.

Music for Peace

As the day concluded, attendees were treated to performances by Anna Tsuchiya and Chihiro Watanabe, who sang John Lennon & Yoko Ono's "Happy Xmas (War is Over)." Their heartfelt interpretation reminded participants of the ongoing struggle for peace and the importance of individuality in the fight against war and oppression.

Looking Ahead

The Change Maker Meet-Up 2025 not only celebrated the achievements of young leaders but also forged meaningful connections that will inspire future actions. The resounding message of the day was clear: by coming together, sharing ideas, and taking courageous steps, we can indeed change the world. As one participant aptly put it, "Your small step can become someone else's courage." Together, attendees left with a renewed sense of purpose, ready to continue their journey toward social change and peace.

In conclusion, the Change Maker Meet-Up 2025 served as a powerful reminder that young leaders are at the forefront of societal change, and as they say, "Peace starts with us." This day was just the beginning of a new narrative in the ongoing story of youth activism in Japan and beyond.