Engaging Young Minds in Urban Development
On July 15, 2026, Global Link Management (GLM), a real estate investment firm based in Shibuya, Tokyo, launched its very first corporate visit program targeting second-year students from Rikkyo Niiza Junior High School. This initiative, called "Future City Conference", aimed to inspire young minds to engage with pressing social issues and envision the cities of tomorrow.
Learning Through an Interactive Format
The program commenced with an introduction to GLM’s business and the real estate industry at large. Students participated in quizzes that not only made learning fun but also highlighted important topics such as the issue of vacant homes due to population decline, environmental concerns, and safety measures against disasters and crime.
In the latter part of the program, students engaged in workshops focusing on the themes of "Future Apartments" and "Future Cities". Here, they had the chance to unleash their creativity and brainstorm solutions for contemporary challenges including public safety, environmental sustainability, and the better utilization of vacant houses. Proposals ranged from implementing facial recognition systems to harnessing solar energy and innovative strategies for repurposing empty homes.
Bridging Ideas with Reality
The ideas generated during the workshop were reviewed by GLM’s Director of Architectural Planning. Notably, many of the proposals presented by the students aligned with initiatives already being explored or implemented by GLM. Suggestions like tree planting around apartment complexes, installing electric vehicle charging stations, and designing elderly-friendly emergency stairs echoed the company’s ongoing development priorities.
However, some ambitious proposals, such as supplying all electricity through solar energy, faced technical and operational challenges. Nonetheless, in line with the Tokyo Metropolitan Environmental Planning Law, which mandates the installation of renewable energy facilities in new buildings over 2,000 square meters, GLM is committed to integrating solar power facilities into communal areas of its projects moving forward.
A 100% Satisfaction Rate
Feedback collected through participant surveys revealed that every student who attended the program found it enjoyable. When asked if their perspective on the real estate industry had changed, 75% of respondents expressed increased interest, while 25% reported a slight increase in interest. The open-ended responses indicated a curiosity about how real estate is presented internationally and the transaction processes involved.
GLM's Commitment to Social Responsibilities
GLM operates with a group mission to create future value through investment and aims to foster a prosperous society through real estate. This program reflects their commitment to addressing social issues such as population decline and environmental challenges while igniting interest in urban development among young people.
By creating spaces where future generations can contemplate societal and professional insights, GLM plays an integral role in building a sustainable future. Looking ahead, the company invites the next generation to take part in social development initiatives, emphasizing the necessity of understanding the complexities of urban challenges.
GLM remains dedicated to solving social issues through the real estate business while providing opportunities for youth, ensuring they acquire a robust understanding of society and the workforce.
Video Highlights
For those interested in a peek into the program, a short video is available on GLM's official YouTube channel:
Watch here.
Overall, this corporate visit program marks a significant step in fostering future urban developers, blending innovative ideas from youth with real-world business perspectives, and shaping a sustainable society for tomorrow.