Supporting Dreams and Studies Abroad
In an increasingly globalized world, children pursuing their dreams abroad face significant challenges regarding their education. One organization standing out in this area is
Meimonkai, a subsidiary of the Riso Education Group based in Toshima, Tokyo. Their mission is to ensure that, regardless of where a child is chasing their dreams—be it sports, arts, or other endeavors—they are not required to give up their educational pursuits.
Recently, Meimonkai conducted an interview with
Shinta Nishiyama, an eleven-year-old student currently excelling at FC Barcelona's youth academy, known as
La Masia. He has been balancing his soccer training with a Japanese curriculum for the past three years through Meimonkai's online platform.
Balancing Soccer and Studies
Shinta's daily life in Barcelona revolves mostly around soccer training, but he simultaneously prioritizes his education. Attending classes at 7 AM local time twice a week, he engages in lessons through the Meimonkai online program, which spans subjects including Japanese and English. The unique setup allows him to study while immersing himself in one of the world’s top soccer environments.
Shinta began playing soccer at just three years old. As he trained with international peers, he articulated his commitment during an interview upon returning to Japan this summer. “I hate the idea of quitting without being able to complete something, so I push myself until I can do it,” he expressed, showcasing a mindset that resonates in both his academic and athletic pursuits.
The Role of Personalized Learning
While speaking about his online experience with Meimonkai, Shinta cited the professionalism of his instructors, highlighting that their lessons are not just engaging but tailored to his needs. “They give me fun classes every week, focusing on different themes that make learning enjoyable,” he said, emphasizing the importance of the teacher-student relationship that has made early morning classes manageable over three years.
Meimonkai employs a unique two-way communication system that mimics in-person classrooms, allowing children to feel closely connected with their teachers. Each student is additionally assigned a dedicated consultant who constructs personalized learning plans that not only cater to their academic needs but also consider their extracurricular schedules, differing time zones, and mental well-being.
A Commitment to Education
Riso Education Group operates with a firm belief that all efforts should be geared towards securing a brighter future for children. Whether a child is venturing to compete globally or staying home to prepare for entrance exams, Meimonkai aims to be a supportive pillar. They understand that success is not only about pursuing dreams but also achieving educational milestones.
“Shinta embodies what it means to strive for excellence in both soccer and academics. During his Japanese classes, he doesn’t just solve problems; he questions why certain ideas are valid and explores different viewpoints. This eagerness to learn makes him a joy to teach,” said Hayasaka-sensei, the instructor who has accompanied Shinta through these formative years.
Concluding Thoughts
Meimonkai remains committed to nurturing environments where children can chase their aspirations without compromising their education. In a world that often demands sacrifices in one area for success in another, Meimonkai ensures that children like Shinta can pursue both their dreams and their studies simultaneously. As these young athletes and artists embark on their journeys, they do not have to choose between chasing their passions and acquiring knowledge.
For more detailed insights, the complete interview with Shinta Nishiyama can be found on Meimonkai's official note
here.